At Liberty Diversified International, sustainability isn't just a buzzword; it's a core part of who we are and what we do. Our commitment to environmental stewardship is demonstrated through active participation in environmental education organizations like the Recycling Association of Minnesota (RAM) and other impactful initiatives.
Peg Wander, Senior Manager of Procurement at Liberty Paper, Inc (LPI), has been a dedicated member of RAM for 25 years and a frequent presenter in recent years, showcasing our dedication to recycling practices and education. Peg's involvement with RAM underscores our support for the organization and highlights our proactive stance in promoting recycling and sustainability. "I think our future depends on our environmental initiatives,” Peg said. “Being engaged in recycling efforts matters not just for what you do at home but in your work life too. These efforts matter to all of us, and our participation adds up. It's a reasonable action we can all take."
These initiatives at LDI are genuine and driven by a strong sense of responsibility toward our communities and the environment. "I'm extremely proud of LDI and the effort we've made in supporting recycling in the state,” Peg said. “We are well-regarded for our efforts and when we are asked to show up, we do because we know it's important to make a difference. We are a leader in Minnesota in these efforts, steadfast in our commitment to sustainability."
Kristie Frydenlund, Manager of Environmental Health & Safety at LPI, adds depth to LDI’s sustainability initiatives through her involvement with the Recycle Paperboard Technical Association (RPTA) and through her service helping to lead LDI’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiative. Kristie is part of the Product Stewardship Task Force for RPTA, ensuring that customers make accurate claims about our products and understand the best practices for recycling paperboard. "Customers often ask for compostability statements, but we educate them that recycling paperboard is the best use. Our manufacturing facilities need it, and recycling ensures it gets reused properly," Kristie explains.
LDI’s environmental outreach extends beyond industry organizations. They engage in community events like road cleanups, an electronics waste event, tree planting and education to the community on best recycling practices. Additionally, LPI hosts first graders for tours in the spring to teach children about recycling and its environmental benefits.
Leadership throughout LDI is deeply committed to environmental stewardship, ensuring that our sustainability goals—such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and freshwater usage reduction—are supported from the top down. "We have a lot of support from our upper management, which makes implementing these goals and practices easier,” Kristie said. “Our environmental goals are not just a departmental initiative but are ingrained in our culture."
At LDI, every effort counts, and together, we make a significant impact. We are grateful to Liberty Papers Peg Wander and Kristie Frydenlund leadership in this area and their dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship creating a better future for our communities and the planet.