Continuous improvement is a key driver of our sustainability efforts

Continuous improvement is a key driver of our sustainability efforts

In an era in which environmental responsibility has become a necessity, Mercer is demonstrating foresight. The innovative manufacturer of wood products is implementing its vision of transforming biomass into bioproducts for a more sustainable world through a continuous improvement process (CIP), also known internationally as CIP (Continuous Improvement Process). What role does continuous improvement play—alongside innovation and collaboration—in helping Mercer pursue its sustainability goals?

CIP means living values: be safe and healthy, sustainable, respectful and bold

For Mercer, continuous improvement is much more than an efficiency program—it is the practical application of its deeply rooted core values. 

“For us, CIP is not just a method, but an expression of our attitude,” explains Sandra Wichmann, Head of Compliance and Process Improvement at Mercer Stendal. “Every employee contributes to identifying and addressing potential for improvement, guided by the awareness that our actions are based on the values ‘Stay safe and healthy,’ ‘Be sustainable,‘ ‘Be respectful,’ and ‘Be bold.” 

These values form the foundation of the Mercer organization and shape the culture in which continuous improvement thrives. Therefore, the strategic importance of CIP lies not only in the optimization of processes but also in the consistent alignment of all activities with the overarching vision of a more sustainable future. The development of CIP at Mercer is thus a journey in which increased efficiency goes hand in hand with environmental and social responsibility.

A network of improvement, driven by respect and boldness

The CIP organization at Mercer is a vibrant network in which central coordination and decentralized initiative go hand in hand. While a function such as that performed by Sandra Wichmann is responsible for the framework and methodology, the real innovative power lies in the participation of every single Mercer employee. Improvement projects arise from various sources – from strategic goals to bold suggestions from employees directly on the production floor. These projects are selected and prioritized based on their contribution to the company’s values, particularly sustainability and creating a safe working environment. Managers play a key role by providing resources and promoting a culture of respect and boldness in which new ideas are welcome and change is embraced.

A culture of progress inspired by sustainability and safety

Embedding CIP at Mercer is an ongoing process. An open communication culture in which mistakes are seen as learning opportunities and employees can boldly contribute their ideas is essential. The active suggestion scheme is an important channel for these ideas in some of the Mercer operations. Motivation to participate in CIP is strengthened here through recognition, transparent feedback, and the visible implementation of suggestions, always in line with the top priority of safety and health for all employees. The success of CIP projects is regularly communicated in employee newsletters or meetings to raise awareness of the positive effects on efficiency, safety, and, in particular, sustainability.

Looking to the future: Bioproducts for a livable world

For Mercer, continuous improvement is an indispensable driver for realizing its ambitious vision. By continuously optimizing processes and products, the company is actively contributing to the transformation to a bio-based economy. Efforts range from reducing the ecological footprint to developing innovative bioproducts that offer a more sustainable alternative to conventional materials.

“Our journey is far from over,” emphasizes Sandra Wichmann. “Driven by our values and vision, CIP is an ongoing process that inspires us daily to boldly break new ground and contribute to reducing environmental impacts by developing bioproducts that can replace higher-emission materials in key sectors.”