Today we announce a series of ambitious climate targets. This includes a science-based target which requires at least a 40% reduction of CO2 emissions per tonne of product by 2030, compared to 2019 levels, and a commitment to reach Net Zero* emissions by 2050. These targets will be validated by the Science Based Targets initiative** as being in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. To further underline our ambition and commitment, we are also announcing our membership of the UN’s Race to Zero. "I’m delighted DS Smith has joined the UN’s Race to Zero. It is great to see a company with an ambitious 2030 target and commitment to reach Net Zero by 2050. DS Smith is making great progress against its previous carbon reduction targets, tackling the challenges associated with decarbonising the paper and packaging sector. Business plays a key role in driving the UK’s transition to a low carbon economy, with over 40 of the FTSE100 now signed up to the UN’s Race to Zero, I hope this announcement inspires other companies in the sector to take action." — Andrew Griffith MP, former business advisor to the PM and current UK Net Zero Business Champion

Ascend Performance Materials, the largest fully integrated producer of polyamide 66 resin, announced it signed an agreement to purchase the assets of NCM (Changshu) Co., Ltd., and Tehe Engineering Plastic (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., located in Changshu Yushan High-tech Industrial Park (known as “The Park”), one of the major advanced manufacturing parks in the eastern coastal area of China, 100 kilometers outside of Shanghai. The acquisition gives Ascend a flexible footprint for growth in the region. The company’s master plan includes the expansion of compounding assets at the site along with a global research and development center with a focus on existing applications in the automotive, electrical and electronics, and consumer and industrial areas, as well as new ones in areas such as 3D-printing and high-performance films.

Miraclon, home of KODAK FLEXCEL Solutions, has announced its plans to open a third Flexo HUB as it continues to invest in the development and growth of the flexographic industry. Based in Oakdale, Minnesota, the new Flexo HUB will allow customers, partners and industry stakeholders based in North and South America local access to KODAK FLEXCEL NX Technology demonstrations, training and networking events. “With our hubs positioned across the globe – one representing the Asia region in Shanghai, China, and the other co-located in Europe with Miraclon’s corporate headquarters in Brussels, Belgium – Miraclon is well positioned to collaborate with customers, partners and stakeholders in the flexo industry from a truly global, yet local perspective”, says Grant Blewett, Miraclon Chief Commercial Officer. Miraclon appointed Charles Schoen as Flexo HUB Manager, Americas to oversee the HUB construction and with responsibility for all Flexo HUB technology demonstrations and training activities. He brings over 30 years of flexo platemaking and managerial experience to the role.