SUSTAINABILITY
The Highland Sustainability Commitment
Highland’s commitment to sustainability is at the core of who we are. Our pledge to operate in a transparent, ethical manner is essential to how we conduct business with our customers, our partners, and our stakeholders. Our commitment extends beyond current U.S. standards to the stringent European standards provided by the Sustainable Biomass Program, the Renewable Energy Directive and EU Deforestation Regulations.
Environmental Impact
Although Highland does not own or directly manage any forests, our strong relationships across the forest supply chain and our role as a buyer of forest fiber allows us to positively influence forest management practices. We are committed to working with forest owners to deliver innovative, high-quality products that sustain and strengthen our nation’s forests.
We are part of a broader sustainable forestry sector with a track record of encouraging best forest management practices among U.S. landowners that have a positive impact on forests. According to data from the U.S. Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) Program, U.S. forests have increased over the last 100 years, and forest carbon stocks have doubled since the 1950s. These gains happened despite a tripling of the U.S. population, record commercial and urban development, and devastating forest fires.
Certifications
Forest certification programs ensure that raw materials for Highland products are sourced from forests that prioritize forest health, biodiversity conservation, soil protection, and climate-smart forestry. Forest certification programs ensure that wood materials for Highland products are sourced from forests that prioritize forest health, biodiversity conservation, soil protection, and climate friendly forestry. Please see each company website for details on which certifications relate to each plant.
Forest Stewardship Council
FSC policies unify a diverse set of stakeholders around common guidelines for forestry that are environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable. FSC’s open and transparent standards include safeguards to ensure that stakeholders throughout the forest supply chain live up to the principles that protect healthy and resilient forests for all — forever.
Sustainable Forestry Initiative
SFI is a sustainability leader through its work in standards, conservation, community, and education. Organizations certified to SFI standards conserve wildlife and water, practice climate-smart forestry, and support relationship-building with Indigenous Peoples.
Sustainable Biomass Program
SBP is a certification system designed for woody biomass used in industrial, large-scale energy production. It provides assurance that woody biomass is sourced legally and sustainably. SBP includes a rigorous risk assessment to ensure that the wood is sourced using environmentally, economically, and socially sound practices.
Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification
PEFC is an umbrella organization that endorses forest certification systems that have been developed through multi-stakeholder processes and tailored to local priorities and conditions. PEFC endorses SFI.
Community Engagement
Highland recognizes that building relationships with local communities involves being a responsible corporate citizen, contributing positively to community development initiatives, and addressing any concerns or grievances that may arise. We engage with community stakeholders to foster goodwill, support rural economies, and encourage people to see Highland as an employer of choice.
Sustaining rural economies
Highland contributes to rural economic development by creating stable, well-paying jobs within the forestry and manufacturing sectors. Investments in timber harvesting, processing, and associated industries that supply sustainable wood pellet feedstocks can generate substantial income and employment opportunities for local communities. Sustainable forestry practices also stimulate ecotourism activities such as hiking, mountain biking, hunting, bird watching, and fishing — attracting visitors and invigorating local businesses.
Resources
Forest of Exceptional Conservation Value (FECV) In Highland’s Supply Region
