MEMPHIS, Tenn. - For the tenth straight year, International Paper (NYSE: IP) was named as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by The Ethisphere Institute. Despite a large number of global nominees, International Paper secured a spot on the list by maintaining its focus on the ethical business practices and standards that have defined the company since its inception more than 118 years ago.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of Ethisphere and the World's Most Ethical Companies designation, which recognizes companies who align principle with action, work tirelessly to make trust part of their corporate DNA, and in doing so, shape future industry standards by introducing tomorrow's best practices today.

International Paper has been recognized ten consecutive years and is one of only two companies in the Forestry, Paper & Packaging category in 2016 underscoring their commitment to leading ethical business standards and practices in the industry. 

"At International Paper, ethics and personal integrity are essential to how we make products and how we operate as a company," said Mark Sutton, chairman and chief executive officer. "Our 55,000 employees around the world are committed to doing the right things in the right ways, for the right reasons. We call this The IP Way.  Congratulations to our global team for achieving this well-earned recognition."

"Companies rely on Ethisphere to continually raise and measure the standards of corporate behavior. Those that demonstrate leadership in areas like citizenship, integrity and transparency create more value for their investors, communities, customers and employees, thus solidifying a sustainable business advantage," explained Ethisphere's Chief Executive Officer, Timothy Erblich. "Congratulations to everyone at International Paper for being recognized as a World's Most Ethical Company."