International Paper Recognized as One of the World's Most Ethical Companies for 2025
In a significant achievement for corporate ethics,
International Paper, a leading sustainable packaging solutions provider based in Memphis, Tennessee, has been awarded the prestigious title of one of the
2025 World's Most Ethical Companies by
Ethisphere, a global authority on ethical business practices. This year marks the
19th time the company has received this recognition, underscoring its enduring commitment to ethical standards and governance.
Commitment to Ethical Practices
Being part of the elite group of
136 honorees across
44 industries and
19 countries is no small feat. International Paper stands out as one of only two companies in the
Forestry, Packaging, and Paper sector to be recognized. The company’s ethos is embedded in its mission to enhance safety and productivity through sustainable solutions. Andy Silvernail, the CEO, highlighted that “Ethics is a company value central to our mission”, demonstrating how deeply ingrained these principles are in the corporate culture.
Recognition and Impact
The recognition by Ethisphere not only emphasizes ethical practices but also points to the crucial role they play in fostering an accountable work environment. Joseph Saab, Senior Vice President, noted that their core ethical values promote dignity and respect while ensuring openness in decision-making. According to Ethisphere’s Chief Strategy Officer and Executive Chair,
Erica Salmon Byrne, this award reflects a company’s commitment to advancing business integrity, crucial for engendering trust among employees and stakeholders alike.
Methodology Behind the Award
Ethisphere’s assessment, known as the
Ethics Quotient, involves over
240 metrics that evaluate a company's ethical culture, governance, compliance, and social impact. This rigorous evaluation ensures that only the most accountable and ethically grounded organizations receive accolades. In fact, those honored as the
World’s Most Ethical Companies outperformed similar global entities by
7.8 percentage points from
2020 to 2025, reinforcing the notion that ethical behavior translates to better business outcomes.
Looking Forward
International Paper has a rich legacy, engaging more than
65,000 employees across
30 countries, and recorded a net sales figure of
$18.6 billion in 2024. The recent acquisition of
DS Smith in 2025 further solidifies their position as a leader in the sustainable packaging space, with a keen focus on the North American and EMEA markets.
For those interested in exploring more about the ethical landscape in business, the complete list of honorees is available on the
World’s Most Ethical Companies website. As the conversation around corporate responsibility continues to evolve, International Paper serves as a prime example of how ethical commitment is not merely a box to check but a foundational pillar that supports the growth and success of a company.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recognition as one of the
2025 World's Most Ethical Companies reiterates International Paper's unwavering commitment to ethics in its operations and impacts in the community. Their approach to responsible business practices not only paves the way for their success but sets a standard for others in the industry.
For more information on International Paper and its mission, visit
www.internationalpaper.com.