Premier David Eby announced a combined funding effort between the provincial and federal governments to re-open the Crofton Paper Excellence mill. Mill COO Stew Gibson also confirmed $50 million in contributions. (BC Government)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

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CROFTON — Joint funding from both the provincial and federal governments is bringing over 100 jobs back to the community.

Paper Excellence mill will see a resumption in its operations through $18.8 million in government money as well as private investment. It’s allowing the facility and its returning employees to make a move into manufacturing pulp products which supports the reduction of single-use plastics.

Premier David Eby said a plan brought to government by the mill’s owners means a substantial shift forward.

“The Crofton mill is going to be producing water-resistant paper packaging and cutlery that’s going to replace those single-use plastic items made out of petroleum.”

Paper Excellence announced the indefinite curtailment of the mill last October.

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On Friday, Jan. 20, Eby praised the plan put forward by the company as good for both community and the environment.

The federal government is covering a majority of the public investment, $14.3 million, while the province makes up the remaining $4.5 million.

Paper Excellence also committed $50 million to help resume their #2 machine, as well as modernize power generation facilities at the plant.

They’re planning to use bark waste to cut down on the use of fossil fuels on-site.

“This and other innovations will keep this mill competitive, reduce production waste, use fewer trees for the same volume of product and at the same time reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Eby added.

The Premier also said forestry will continue to be “a foundational industry” in the province

Some mills in B.C. have already followed suit with a model which supports eco-friendly products, such as wooden or paper utensils.

Earlier in January, $90 million was committed to by the provincial government for mills to purchase equipment to support mass timber production or create new paper packaging.

Stew Gibson, chief operating officer for Paper Excellence said the money from both the company and government helps secure long-term operations at the site.

“This is the largest investment made in Crofton in more than two decades. This is an investment that will help local competitiveness, one that’s going to be responding to changes in market sentiments to produce renewable, fibre-based packaging solutions that consumers want.”

Friday’s announcement comes days after a commitment of $50 million in provincial cash to expand projects and programs which take low-value wood products, including fire-damaged trees, and diverts them from being burned in slash piles.

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