Umka Cardboard Mill, one of the leading domestic producers of recycled cardboard, has published its first Sustainability Report for 2024. The report systematically presents the company’s results and goals in sustainable development, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and responsible business practices.
The report provides an overview of the initiatives through which Umka advances sustainability – from recycling waste paper and optimizing production processes, to investing in technologies that reduce water and energy consumption, and fostering a responsible approach to employees, the community and the environment. Particular emphasis is placed on business ethics and employee development, highlighting that the company views sustainability not only through an environmental lens but also through social and governance dimensions.
Milestones defining 2024
The primary raw material in Umka’s production is recycled paper, making a significant contribution to reducing waste that would otherwise end up in landfills. In 2024, the factory processed 173,544 tonnes of recycled paper, with recycled content accounting for over 80% of the total input materials used.
In line with the Climate Change Act, Umka Mill obtained a greenhouse gas emissions permit in 2024 and established a regular monitoring system. Total emissions (Scope 1 + Scope 2) amounted to 0.63 kg CO₂e per tonne of product.
Additionally, the company has set long-term goals, including increasing the share of recycled raw materials, further optimizing production processes, and continuing investments in technologies that reduce water and energy consumption. The most significant plan for the coming years is the construction and commissioning of a biological wastewater treatment plant by the end of 2026, further enhancing the environmental performance of Umka’s operations.
Sustainability as a strategic priority
Umka’s vision is to become the leading manufacturer of recycled cardboard in Central Europe and a benchmark for the circular economy. Its business model is built on closed-loop principles, reusing resources and minimizing waste.
“At Umka, we see sustainability as the foundation of our business. By producing cardboard from recycled paper, we conserve resources and improve process efficiency. Last year alone, recycled material made up 81% of our products, giving thousands of tonnes of waste paper a new life. Energy- and water-saving technologies show that quality and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand,” emphasized Nikola Pejović, General manager.
The company places particular value on its employees, fostering a safe, fair, and motivating work environment with open communication and equal opportunities, where teams contribute daily to product quality and a culture of responsible business.
The report has been prepared in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines, allowing comparisons with global best practices and demonstrating Umka’s commitment to measuring its performance against the highest standards.
