UPM Forestal Oriental Annual Report 2021

49

PRODUCTION PROCESS

COMPLEMENTARY FORESTRY PRODUCTS

DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

RESPONSIBLE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

CONTACT

UPM INFORME PÚBLICO

ON DECEMBER 29 THERE WERE TWO MAJOR FIRES, one in the Tres Bocas area, in Río Negro, and the other in the surroundings of the towns of Algorta, Orgoroso and Piedras Coloradas on the axis of Route 90, in Paysandú. These events were the largest fires in the country’s history to affect UPM plantations, as well as plantations from other companies in the

the fires, and despite the various risks presented to personnel, no accidents were reported among those participating in the firefighting efforts. The UPM Forestal Oriental team and its contractors showed great commitment during the days in which adverse circumstances demanded dedication and energy, working side by side with the different affected communities.

sector, private producers and neighbours. From day one, UPM made all of its resources available to help fight the fires, including more than 300 people from its own team and contractors, who collaborated with the firefighting efforts from the very beginning. In addition, it also activated the National Fire Protection Plan implemented by the Forestry Producers Partnership,

which also collaborated with authorities. It took 20 days for firefighters to eradicate all outbreaks. During this time, the company worked in coordination with the relevant authorities, particularly the National Fire Department, to help in identification, combat, coordination and logistics tasks. It is worth highlighting that during the duration of