Environmental organization Greenpeace is urging for increased transparency from Canada’s leading pulp and paper company, highlighting concerns over the lack of disclosure regarding the utilization of millions of dollars in government funding and the company’s forest management plans. In a recent report titled “Paper Trail to Nowhere,” Greenpeace revealed that Domtar, previously known as Paper Excellence, has received $200 million in government funding from federal and provincial sources in Canada between 2020 and 2024.
The report questions Domtar’s transparency, corporate control over forests, and lobbying practices. Greenpeace emphasized the need for accountability and specified that any future government funding for Domtar should be tied to conditions promoting nature conservation, diversity protection, Indigenous rights, and reconciliation. These conditions should include funding objectives, performance indicators, and public accountability mechanisms.
Greenpeace called for Jackson Wijaya, the owner of the company, to testify before the House of Commons committee on natural resources to address concerns regarding the company’s ownership, governance structure, long-term intentions, and impact on Canadian forests and the industry. Despite motions for Wijaya to appear before the committee, the proceedings were disrupted due to parliamentary changes.
Domtar’s spokesperson, Seth Kursman, affirmed the company’s adherence to lobbying regulations across jurisdictions. Greenpeace’s report highlighted Domtar’s lobbying efforts targeting federal officials and MPs, particularly focusing on natural resources committee members and representatives of regions where the company operates mills.
The report noted that Domtar and its subsidiaries received significant government funding, with a majority coming from provincial sources. Greenpeace emphasized the need for Domtar to improve transparency regarding its use of public funds and operations. The company highlighted challenges in the lumber market due to tariffs and duties, mentioning that returned government funds have been a result of unsuccessful innovation projects.
Greenpeace’s report sheds light on Domtar’s corporate practices, emphasizing the need for enhanced accountability and transparency in the management of public funds and forest resources.