The independent audit was commissioned by APP and SMG, and carried out by AMEC Simons Forest Industry Consulting, in response to Friends of the Earths (FoE) 68pp Paper Tiger, Hidden Dragons
report into APPs forestry methods (PrintWeek, 6 July 2001).

Mark Werren, chairman of APP and SMGs sustainability task force, said the group had asked AMEC to act as an adviser in detailing a sustainable wood supply assessment, including assessing biodiversity, wood supply tracking and community issues.

"We hope to start the assessment in mid-April and complete by mid-October," said Werren.

Werren said the findings would then be published in a public report, which would be circulated to customers, environmental organisations and interested parties.

But FoE forest campaigner Ed Matthew said: "These studies should have been carried out prior to their forestry operations taking place."

Werren said APP was committed to working closely with the Indonesian government and environmental organisations to assist in efforts to stop illegal logging activity.

"They have shown a willingness to engage in dialogue, which we welcome, but any assessment needs to be fully transparent and they need to follow this up with clear and precise actions," said Matthew.

The message from FoE to paper merchants, added Matthew, is "dont buy APPs paper until it has been verified they are acting in a sustainable manner".

Story by Andy Scott