About the Environmental Paper Network

 

The Environmental Paper Network (EPN) is a global movement of more than 350 civil society organizations protecting forests and communities. We transform how paper is produced and consumed and work to end industrial biomass energy production. By connecting advocates, shaping policies, and influencing markets, we drive systemic change in forest-based industries worldwide.

Forests are essential to climate stability, biodiversity, and the rights and livelihoods of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. Yet growing demand for paper, packaging, and energy continues to put them at risk. EPN exists to change that. We work where production, finance, policy, and consumption intersect, because lasting solutions require coordinated action.

Our Network

EPN operates through three hubs — North America, China, and International — each leading regional work while contributing to coordinated global strategy.

Our network is anchored by two initiatives:

  • Biomass Action Network (BAN): A global coalition addressing the climate, biodiversity, and community impacts of woody biomass energy. BAN supports shared research, coordinated campaigns, and cross-continent collaboration.
  • Global Paper Network: A worldwide movement advancing reductions in paper consumption, promoting responsible production, and strengthening policies and  sustainability practices. The network shares research, tools, and best practices, empowering organizations to influence policies, markets, and corporate behavior for lasting impact.

Through these initiatives and our broader network, we strengthen campaigns, support frontline communities, engage financial institutions, and influence corporate and government policies. Our impact comes from coordinated action across regions that are often treated separately but are deeply interconnected.

Global Hubs

Each of our regional hubs are governed and work independently while contributing to the global network. The China Environmental Paper Network (CEPN) maintains its own website and focuses on sustainable practices, responsible investment, and forest protection, while contributing to EPN’s global goals.

This model reflects a core principle: forests, supply chains, and solutions are global, and coordinated action multiplies impact.

Our Approach

EPN targets the points that can shift entire systems:

  • Protect forests and biodiversity. We challenge destructive industrial practices and advocate for policies and standards that prioritize natural forests.
  • Support Indigenous Peoples and local communities. We amplify local leadership and ensure forest protection respects land and human rights.
  • Transform finance and investment. We align public and private funding with climate and forest protection goals.
  • Reduce consumption and improve transparency. Our research and tools illuminate the true impacts of paper and biomass systems, empowering organizations to advocate strategically and reduce environmental harm.

Why EPN

We are more than a coalition — we are a strategic network that:

  • Connects organizations across continents to act collectively
  • Shares research, tools, and intelligence to strengthen campaigns
  • Aligns messaging and policy goals across regions
  • Builds long-term capacity for sustained systems change

By combining global coordination with regional leadership, we turn shared vision into tangible impact.