Reinforcing its commitment to improve biodiversity in the communities in which it operates, DS Smith has launched new funding available to partnerships and local charities across the U.S., where it has 15 manufacturing, paper and recycling facilities and employs more than 2,000 people.

The DS Smith Charitable Foundation, which was brought into the Group in 2011, is focused on improving the environment and inspiring the next generation, with projects such as Future Trees Trust, Trees for Cities, and the Natural History Consortium, as well as a number of other biodiversity projects.

Now, as part of DS Smith’s “Now and Next Sustainability Strategy,” the Foundation will offer grants ranging from $1,250 to $12,500 for organizations or individuals that are focused on improving biodiversity within local communities across DS Smith’s global footprint.  

DS Smith will implement 100 biodiversity projects by 2025, and its paper mills will each launch biodiversity programs. Projects eligible for the grant include wildflower meadows, community gardens or biodiversity projects. Applications can be submitted here.

“As a large employer operating across multiple countries, we recognize the importance of reinvesting in our communities and supporting the natural environment,” said Ron Holman, director of sustainability, DS Smith North America. “We’re excited to hear from organizations in North America that want to improve the environment for plants and animals, protect natural habitats or enhance species diversity, and we look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of this work.”

Across its operations, DS Smith employs 30,000 people and the scale of its business and approach means it is able to tackle big challenges faced by the wider communities in which it operates and in which its employees live.