Oct 15, 2009. /Lesprom Network/. HP announced it has joined the Global Forest & Trade Network in North America (GFTN), a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) initiative linking more than 300 companies globally that share a commitment to responsible forestry. By becoming a member of the GFTN, HP has committed to progressively increase the amount of responsibly harvested fiber used in its paper products and sold globally. HP has set a target of 40% of its paper sales from Forest Stewardship Council-certified or post-consumer recycled sources by 2011. As part of meeting these goals, HP will be engaging with suppliers and informing customers of its commitment. WWF will provide technical assistance toward reaching these goals. “For more than 50 years, HP has been a leader in environmental sustainability, delivering solutions that help customers reduce their environmental impact,” said Glen Hopkins, vice president, Global Media Business, HP. “We look forward to working closely with WWF to demonstrate the importance of responsible and sustainable forest management practices.” Carbon emissions from deforestation and forest degradation are a main cause of climate change. Joining the GTFN is part of HP’s commitment to mitigating climate change by reducing its carbon footprint across its business operations, products and supply chain. “Every year, more than 30 million acres of natural forest are destroyed to meet the growing demand for wood and agricultural products,” said Suzanne Apple, vice president, Business and Industry, World Wildlife Fund. “With this new relationship, HP is helping to protect the world’s forests by sourcing and trading responsible forest products.” HP sells more than 280,000 tons of paper annually, including HP Everyday Papers, small- and large-format papers, photo media and other branded media products to a global market with a concentration in North America and Europe.