HAMILTON, Ohio, June 24 -- SMART Papers today announced it is the first North American papermaker to produce Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified premium cast-coated papers. The legendary Kromekote(R), a triple cast-coated paper well known for its mirror-smooth surface, rich gloss and outstanding print performance, is now FSC-certified in Kromekote Recycled.

The move underscores SMART Papers' longstanding commitment to sustainability in its premium branded papers and manufacturing operations. Recently the company broke ground on a $30 million energy production facility to be powered by 100% cellulosic biomass fuel, primarily yard waste. By late 2009, all of the company's products will be fully carbon neutral and produced fossil fuel free.

SMART Papers, North America's largest independent manufacturer and marketer of premium coated and uncoated printing papers, offers the most extensive selection of premium FSC-certified coated and uncoated printing paper brands, including Genesis(R), Synergy(R), Pegasus(R), Solutions(R), Skytone(R), Proterra(R), Feltweave(R), Nekoosa(R) Linen and now, Kromekote.

"We're always striving to exceed customer expectations when it comes to environmental stewardship," said Doug Gruber, Vice President, Sales and Marketing for SMART Papers. "The addition of FSC-certified products to the Kromekote brand is part of our continuing efforts to offer our customers the largest selection of FSC-certified premium printing papers in the industry."

The new FSC-certified papers are available in Kromekote Recycled, which contains 50% recycled fiber content and 30% post-consumer waste (PCW). Kromekote Recycled is available in 10- and 12-point weights and four sizes. Custom manufacturing orders within the Kromekote Collection can be made with FSC certification.

SMART Papers Kromekote: unsurpassed performance, elegance

A top-quality coated paper for more than 80 years, Kromekote's mirror-smooth surface has been continuously improved for today's offset and digital printing technology.

"Kromekote is highly respected as the finest coated paper in the marketplace today," said Chuck Dewitt, SMART Papers Director of Product Management. "Printers and graphic designers select Kromekote for their most discerning customers."

The Kromekote Collection includes high gloss, deep colors, foils, metallics and pearls as well as textures, folding board and Tuffkote, making it North America's most diverse line of cast-coated premium printing papers.

Available in a wide selection of weights, sizes and finishes, the ultra-premium papers are made for commercial printing applications including annual reports, greeting cards, book covers, brochures and other printed materials requiring high-visual impact.