Environmental organization Greenpeace is urging for increased transparency from the largest pulp and paper company in Canada, criticizing the lack of public disclosure regarding the allocation and utilization of government funds received by the company. Greenpeace’s recent report, named Paper Trail to Nowhere, highlights that over $200 million in government funding has been granted to Domtar (previously known as Paper Excellence) by federal and provincial authorities in Canada between 2020 and 2024. The report also questions Domtar’s lobbying activities and its accountability to the public.
According to the authors of the report, Domtar has been obtaining substantial public funds while gaining control over forests nationwide without clear transparency or accountability. The report emphasizes the need for conditions to be attached to any future government funding for the company, focusing on environmental protection, Indigenous rights, and public accountability. Greenpeace is specifically demanding that funding objectives, performance indicators, and accountability mechanisms be established for any future financial support.
Moreover, Greenpeace is advocating for the appearance of company owner Jackson Wijaya before the House of Commons committee on natural resources to address concerns regarding the company’s governance structure, long-term intentions, and potential impact on Canada’s forests and the industry. Despite motions passed by the committee for Wijaya to testify, no concrete steps have been taken in this regard. Domtar’s spokesperson, Seth Kursman, affirms the company’s compliance with lobbying regulations.
The report also sheds light on Domtar’s extensive forest management operations in Canada, controlling approximately 22 million hectares of forest land, which accounts for nearly 10% of all managed forest area in the country. Greenpeace’s report urges for greater transparency from Domtar, highlighting the need for the company to be more accountable in its operations and use of public funds.
While Domtar states its adherence to government regulations and commitment to sustainable practices, Greenpeace’s report underscores the importance of ensuring transparency and accountability in the forest industry.