Leading North American specialty paper supplier dedicates 1% of gross sales of new Durilla™ durable papers and synthetics brand to Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International 

SUN PRAIRIE, Wisconsin - CTI Paper USA has signed a letter of agreement to donate 1% of gross sales of its new durable papers and synthetics brand, Durilla™, to The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International.  The Fossey Fund directs money, human and scientific resources to the conservation and protection of gorillas and their habitats in Africa. 

CTI Paper’s illustrated Durilla mascot is inspired by the Silverback Mountain Gorilla of Central Africa. “We wanted to find a way to commit a portion of our product sales to directly benefit gorilla protection and conservation,” said John Kelly, president of CTI Paper USA. 

The company’s research showed that the Fossey Fund had the strongest and most comprehensive impact, together with a 49-year track record in Central Africa.  Longtime Fossey Fund trustees include Sigourney Weaver, Larry Ellison, Christian Bale and Gilbert Grosvenor.

“Because of its low fundraising and administrative costs, the Fossey Fund ensures that donations have the maximum intended benefit to gorillas, their habitats and local people,” Kelly said. “That’s important to us and to our customers.”

The Durilla brand is targeted to North American buyers and specifiers of premium printing, packaging and converting papers who want new innovative, cost-effective durable substrates.

Demand is growing for printable durable papers and synthetics that are tear-, water- and chemical resistant and/or fully waterproof.  They are a substitute for many lamination applications and other printing, packaging and converted products used across business and consumer markets.  

Applications include envelopes, menus, book covers, booklets, brochures, pocket folders, maps/guides, tags/labels, tickets, post cards, point-of-purchase displays, bags and premium packaging.

The new Durilla portfolio features premium coated, uncoated, translucent and waterproof durable papers—as well as a premium ultra polyester sheet—in a variety of sizes, weights and thicknesses.  All Durilla papers are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council®, which promotes responsible management of the world’s forests.

The CTI Paper USA donation will support the Fossey Fund’s commitment to gorilla protection, science, field research, education and awareness, human health initiatives, and economic development. 

“These activities, taken together, constitute a comprehensive approach to conservation with the greatest chance of success,” said Heather A. H. Greene, Development Officer for The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International.

For information about the Fossey Fund, visit www.gorillafund.org.