The West Fraser 2024 Sustainability Report, Building Together: People and Partnerships, is live and highlights the company’s sustainability performance across a variety of environmental, social, and governance goals and disclosed targets.
“Since our founding 70 years ago, West Fraser has recognized our responsibility to the environment and society while delivering solid financial performance,” said Sean McLaren, president and CEO. “This report provides some details about our activities in 2024 and measures the progress we have made toward achieving our goals.”
Key achievements in the West Fraser 2024 Sustainability Report include:
- Broadening Safety Training and Data Insights: West Fraser, a lumber manufacturing member of the Southern Forest Products Association, implemented new contractor safety practices throughout the company and set new expectations around the oversight of contracted work. Improving the company’s safety program remains a top priority in 2025.
- Advancing Carbon Reduction Strategy: West Fraser’s manufacturing operations were powered by 75% renewable energy. At the same time, 100% of its mills progressed on their energy reduction road maps to materially reduce our carbon footprint by 2030 using scope 1, 2, and 3 emission reduction targets, validated through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). A key highlight was a 22% reduction in the scope 1 and 2 emissions compared to 2019 baseline levels, along with a 13% reduction in its Scope 3 emissions compared to its 2020 baseline levels. These reductions are on track to meet the company’s 2030 GHG reduction targets.
- Driving Sustainable Forest Management and Wood Procurement Traceability: Requirements related to resource management and responsible sourcing are clarified through West Fraser’s Sustainable Forest and Wood Procurement Policy. Implemented in 2024, the policy provides a cohesive approach throughout the company.
- Partnering with Indigenous Nations: A key milestone was the agreement signed with the Lake Babine Nation’s forestry company, targeting long-term fiber supply for its mill in Smithers, British Columbia, and recognizing the Nation’s role as a resource steward. These arrangements remain subject to approval by the Government of British Columbia, which is anticipated in 2025.
- Investing in Communities: West Fraser invested $4.3 million through 800 partnerships in the communities where it operates. Those investments focused on support for young people, improving mental health and were targeted at helping rural areas where it operates.