May 10, 2012. /Lesprom Network/. UPM has signed a member agreement with Cleantech Finland. UPM believes that cleantech cooperation will support implementation of the company's Biofore strategy as a frontrunner of the new forest industry, as the company said in a press release received by Lesprom Network. “UPM is a leading producer of biomaterials and renewable energy. Our products are based on renewable raw materials, are recyclable and carbon-binding in addition to providing a bio-based alternative to non-renewable materials. Our strategy and innovations are based on sustainable development leading to a low-carbon bioeconomy. Thus, UPM is essentially a cleantech company,” says Hans Sohlström, UPM’s Executive Vice President for Corporate Relations and Development. As the Biofore company, UPM is committed to reducing the environmental impacts of its products and operations throughout their lifecycle. Sustainable products, climate, water, forest and waste are key areas of UPM’s environmental responsibility. The company is constantly striving to improve its environmental performance and achieve the long-term targets set for 2020. “The core of cleantech cooperation involves networking with players in the industry, and cooperation will allow us to put new technological innovations into use more quickly and cost-effectively. Cleantech Finland membership supports our goals and implementation of the Biofore strategy,” says Hans Sohlmström. The Cleantech Finland network comprises nearly 100 Finnish companies that focus on environmental business. UPM is the first forest company to join the Cleantech family, which already includes many large Finnish companies Kemira, Outokumpu, Metso, Wärtsilä, Vacon, Outotec, Ruukki, Pöyry, Neste Oil and Fortum. UPM comprises of three Business Groups: Energy and pulp, Paper, and Engineered materials. UPM has production plants in 16 countries and it employs approximately 24,000 people worldwide.