PDL Achieves ISO 50001:2018 Certification: A Milestone in Sustainable Energy Management for Lightweight and Specialty Paper Manufacturing

PDL is proud to announce its successful certification to ISO 50001:2018, covering the design, manufacturing, marketing and sale of lightweight and specialty papers, related user advice, manufacturing of paper pulp, and production of lightweight and special paper. This internationally recognised standard confirms PDL’s long-term commitment to responsible energy management, operational excellence, and continuous improvement across all production and support processes.

This certification represents an important step forward in aligning our growth with the highest standards of sustainability and efficiency—essential values in today’s competitive lightweight and specialty paper industry.

What Is ISO 50001:2018?

ISO 50001:2018 is the global benchmark for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving an Energy Management System (EnMS). It provides a structured approach for companies to:

• Improve energy performance
• Reduce energy consumption
• Enhance operational efficiency
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions
• Integrate sustainable practices into strategic decision-making

For manufacturers of lightweight paper, special paper, and technical substrates, ISO 50001 certification ensures that energy usage is controlled, monitored, and optimised at every stage—from pulp preparation to final product finishing.

What This Certification Means for PDL

Achieving ISO 50001:2018 is the result of a company-wide effort to systematise and optimise energy performance within all industrial and administrative activities. For PDL, this certification means:

1. A Reinforced Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is central to the lightweight and specialty paper sector. ISO 50001 validates that PDL is actively reducing its energy footprint and continuously striving to improve resource efficiency.

2. Stronger Process Control and Operational Excellence

Across our paper pulp manufacturing lines, rewinding units, and specialty paper production, PDL has implemented precise monitoring, measurement, and data analysis tools to better control energy usage and reduce variability.

3. Enhanced Efficiency and Cost Optimisation

By minimising energy waste, PDL strengthens its competitiveness in the technical paper and specialty lightweight paper market, improving cost structure while maintaining uncompromising product quality.

4. Greater Transparency for Customers and Partners

ISO 50001 certification provides assurance to customers, distributors, and industrial partners that PDL follows internationally validated methodologies to manage energy performance responsibly.

5. Continuous Improvement Embedded in the Organisation

PDL’s Energy Management System is not a one-time initiative. It is a long-term framework that commits us to ongoing optimisation, evaluation, and innovation—ensuring that energy performance remains a strategic priority.

Why ISO 50001 Matters for the Lightweight and Specialty Paper Industry

The lightweight paper and specialty  paper segments operate in an environment where sustainability, efficiency, and compliance are more crucial than ever. Market expectations increasingly favour manufacturers who:

• Demonstrate responsible resource use
• Reduce environmental impact
• Implement traceable, measurable performance systems
• Maintain certified and standardised production practices

ISO 50001 certification positions PDL at the forefront of these developments. It strengthens our role as a responsible European manufacturer capable of delivering high-performance papers while reducing environmental impact and optimising energy consumption.

A Strategic Advantage for Our Customers

For our customers, the ISO 50001:2018 certification delivers tangible benefits:

• Increased confidence in the sustainability of our manufacturing processes
• Access to reliable, high-quality lightweight and specialty papers produced under rigorously controlled energy conditions
• Stronger alignment with market demand for environmentally responsible packaging and technical substrates
• Support in meeting their own sustainability commitments thanks to a certified paper partner

This certification strengthens PDL’s ability to support clients across the lightweight, industrial processing, and specialty manufacturing sectors.

Looking Ahead: PDL’s Ongoing Commitment to Responsible Manufacturing

The ISO 50001:2018 certification is an important milestone, but it is also a foundation for continued progress. PDL will continue investing in:

• Energy-efficient technologies
• Modernised production equipment
• Advanced monitoring systems
• Training and awareness for teams
• Continuous improvement actions

By pursuing excellence in lightweight and specialty paper manufacturing, PDL reinforces its long-standing commitment to quality, sustainability, and industry leadership.

Conclusion

Receiving the ISO 50001:2018 certification reflects PDL’s dedication to sustainable growth, responsible industrial performance, and continuous optimisation of our energy practices. It strengthens our position in the market for lightweight paper, special paper, and technical substrates, and supports our mission to produce high-quality papers with reduced environmental impact.

PDL remains committed to driving innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainability across all operations—today and in the future.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Alizée Degorce

Email: alizee.degorce@avere.pro 

Phone: +33 698961146

About Papeteries du Léman: Papeteries du Léman (PDL) is a leading specialty paper manufacturer, known for its high-quality, eco-conscious products such as Primabake baking paper. With a century of papermaking expertise, PDL is committed to driving sustainable innovation and crafting reliable solutions for professionals in the culinary and packaging industries. Learn more at pdl.fr