Commitment to sustainable development: Paracel and its positive impact in the north of the country
Paracel reaffirms its commitment to the country's sustainable development through a series of social programs that generate positive impacts on communities in northern Paraguay. Through its operations, the company actively contributes to social, economic and environmental well-being, with significant advances in employment, infrastructure, food security, income generation, health and community participation. These actions reflect a vision of development that puts people at the center, recognizing their knowledge, needs and potential.
Currently, 95% of the people who work for Paracel are of Paraguayan nationality, and around 70% come from the department of Concepción, reflecting the company's commitment to local talent. In addition, it promotes training programs together with SINAFOCAL and the SNPP, providing tools and certifications that allow people to access formal employment, especially those who previously worked in the informal sector.
In terms of infrastructure, 971 families have benefited through access to water, improved roads and electricity, both in rural and indigenous communities, having a positive impact on people's quality of life. These investments not only improve material conditions, but they also open up new opportunities for community development.
Food safety is also a priority. Through productive programs, Paracel has accompanied 11 communities and 3 associations with technical assistance and the provision of supplies in the production of more than 32 tons of food intended for self-consumption. In addition, school gardens have been implemented in six educational institutions, generating more than 279 kg of food and promoting sustainable practices among students, teachers and families.
In the area of income, more than 152 tons of agricultural production have been allocated to commercialization, generating income for families. Paracel has also accompanied indigenous communities in the production of honey and in strengthening cultural expressions such as basketry, supporting the creation of their own brands and access to new markets.
More than 414 local companies have been formalized with the support of Paracel, and 155 people from fishing associations have received support in their formalization processes.
Dialogue with communities is a cross-cutting axis. Paracel promotes meeting spaces, newsletters, and other open communication tools to share clear information about its operations and receive concerns, inquiries and suggestions. A service channel managed by an external company guarantees transparency and continuous improvement in the relationship with stakeholders.
In the area of community health and safety, Paracel works together with 11 Family Health Units, reaching more than 2,500 people in 10 communities. She has also held medical and awareness-raising sessions with the Paraguayan Red Cross and PRONASIDA, focused on sexual health, family planning and HIV/AIDS prevention, reaching more than 2,000 people, with special emphasis on children, women and indigenous peoples.
With these actions, Paracel seeks to position itself as a key actor in the social transformation of the north of the country, aligning its operations with the Sustainable Development Goals and the well-being of communities.
About Paracel
Paracel is the first Paraguayan cellulose forestry company, created to generate a positive impact on society and promote an increase in demand for biodegradable products. This Paraguayan company, the largest private enterprise in the country's history, has 199,000 hectares of its own land.
It is led by three companies: the Zapag Group, Heinzel Holding GmbH and Girindus Investments, all committed to sustainable development and the creation of social, economic and environmental value.
