Global Paper Network - Environmental Paper Network

The Environmental Paper Network (EPN) was founded in 2002 in North America, bringing together civil society organizations working to transform the pulp and paper industry. Over time, that work has evolved into a coordinated international network focused on reshaping the entire paper system.

Today, we unite nearly 200 organizations across regions (listed below) to reduce paper consumption, advance responsible production, and protect forests and communities worldwide.

As demand for paper and packaging continues to drive forest loss, climate emissions, biodiversity decline, and harmful impacts on communities, we coordinate action across the full supply chain, from production landscapes to global markets.

What We Do

We connect organizations working to transform how paper is produced, traded, financed, and used. By aligning strategies across regions, we address both the production and consumption sides of the paper system. Advocacy in producer countries is reinforced by policy reform, financial leverage, and corporate engagement in consumer markets.

Our collaborations:

Develop science-based research and practical tools, including the Paper Calculator™, to support effective campaigns and measurable reductions in paper use and impacts
Support collaboration, communication, and knowledge sharing among civil society organizations
Advance policies that reduce unnecessary paper consumption at scale
Promote circular economy solutions and higher recycled content standards
Engage companies to strengthen sourcing and sustainability practices
Advocate for strong environmental and social safeguards

How We Work

EPN facilitates collaboration across continents through regular strategy sessions, cross-border campaign coordination, and focused working groups around key policy and market opportunities. We also strengthen coordination across regions to ensure collective efforts are aligned and mutually reinforcing.

In North America, we are modernizing corporate and public policies and eliminating paper and packaging waste. In the European Union, we are engaging in policy and regulatory frameworks shaping the future of paper and packaging. In China, our partners are advancing sustainable paper practices, responsible investment, and forest protection through regionally grounded strategies and leadership. Across these regions, we link organizations to ensure that forest protection efforts are reinforced by global reforms in finance, trade, and corporate practice.

This coordinated systems approach strengthens advocacy and amplifies impact.

Strategic Priorities

Reduce Paper Consumption at Scale: Reform procurement systems, eliminate unnecessary use, and promote circular models that significantly lower demand for virgin fiber.

Advance Responsible Production: Strengthen environmental and social standards across the supply chain while addressing harmful industrial practices.

Protect Natural Forests and Biodiversity: Ensure climate and market policies prioritize the protection of intact natural forests over expansion of industrial logging.

Strengthen Corporate Sustainability Practices: Work constructively with companies to improve transparency, sourcing, and performance while holding harmful practices accountable when necessary.

Align Finance and Policy with Forest Protection: Shift public incentives and financial flows toward forest conservation, climate integrity, and reduced material consumption.