DS Smith, a leading fiber-based packaging manufacturer, announced that its Spanish-language interpreters program has been awarded a prestigious Better Practices, Better Planet 2030 Sustainability Award from the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA). This award honors outstanding sustainability programs and initiatives within the paper and wood products manufacturing industry. DS Smith鈥檚 interpreters program was selected for its innovative approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), specifically addressing language barriers and expanding employment opportunities for Hispanic workers.
鈥淒S Smith is committed to creating a more sustainable future, not only through our products but also through our people,鈥� said Monica Anderton, Chief Human Resources Officer at DS Smith North America. 鈥淭he interpreters program has been instrumental in breaking down language barriers and empowering our Hispanic workforce. By providing interpreter services on-site, we鈥檝e been able to attract and retain skilled workers, fostering both a more inclusive work environment and delivering outstanding results to our customers through our operational excellence.鈥�
The program has led to a significant increase in the Hispanic workforce at the company鈥檚 Lebanon, IN facility, from 6 percent to 42 percent. This initiative demonstrates DS Smith鈥檚 dedication to creating a more equitable workplace, while also contributing to the sustainability of the local community.