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West Fraser Timber Co. Unveils 2024 Sustainability Achievements

On May 22, 2025, West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd., a leader in the timber industry, made headlines with the release of its 2024 Sustainability Report, titled "Building Together People and Partnerships." This report highlights the progress made in various environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives that align with the Company's commitment to sustainability over its 70-year history.

Key Highlights from the Report

1. Enhanced Safety Practices

In a bid to improve worker safety, West Fraser has taken significant steps to broaden its safety training and oversight of contracted work. The implementation of new contractor safety practices marks a critical priority for the Company, aiming to ensure a safer work environment for all employees in 2025 and beyond.

2. Carbon Footprint Reduction Strategy

The report reveals that West Fraser's manufacturing operations achieved a remarkable milestone, powered by 75% renewable energy. The Company is on track to meet its ambitious carbon reduction goals for 2030, following its roadmap validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Particularly noteworthy is the reported 22% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions from the 2019 baseline, along with a commendable 13% decrease in Scope 3 emissions compared to the 2020 baseline levels.

3. Sustainable Forest Management Initiatives

West Fraser has further clarified its commitment to sustainable resource management through the introduction of a comprehensive Sustainable Forest and Wood Procurement Policy. This policy, implemented in 2024, seeks to enhance wood procurement traceability and responsible sourcing, supporting a sustainable future for forest resources.

4. Partnerships with Indigenous Nations

A pivotal moment highlighted in the report is the agreement signed with the Lake Babine Nation's forestry company. This partnership focuses on securing a long-term fiber supply for a mill based in Smithers, British Columbia while recognizing the important role of the Nation as a steward of resources. Approval from the Government of British Columbia is expected in 2025, further solidifying West Fraser's commitment to collaboration and sustainable resource management.

5. Investment in Community Initiatives

Demonstrating its dedication to community development, West Fraser invested $4.3 million in approximately 800 partnerships over the year. These investments are specifically aimed at supporting youth initiatives, enhancing mental health resources, and targeting improvements in the rural areas where the Company operates.

Reflections from Leadership

Sean McLaren, President and CEO of West Fraser, emphasized the Company’s dual commitment to achieving strong financial performance while being a responsible corporate citizen. He stated, "Since our founding 70 years ago, West Fraser has recognized our responsibility to the environment and society while delivering solid financial performance." The 2024 Sustainability Report serves to detail the actions taken and the achievements made in pursuit of these goals.

Looking to the Future

West Fraser remains proactive in its commitment to sustainability, with the upcoming years expected to bring additional initiatives, advancements in carbon reduction strategies, and enhanced community investments. For further details on the initiatives and achievements outlined in the 2024 report, stakeholders are encouraged to visit West Fraser’s official sustainability page.

As one of the leading wood products companies, West Fraser continues to set benchmarks in sustainable practices, ensuring that its operational strategies contribute positively to both the environment and the communities it serves.

About West Fraser

West Fraser operates over 50 facilities across Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe, producing a diverse range of products from lumber to engineered wood products. This diversified approach not only fuels the timber supply chain but also promotes responsible forestry practices worldwide. For more insights into their operations and sustainability efforts, visit www.westfraser.com.