Stora Enso and Södra Join Forces to Advance Kraft Lignin as a Sustainable Bio-Based Material

Stora Enso and Södra Join Forces to Advance Kraft Lignin as a Sustainable Bio-Based Material

(IN BRIEF) Stora Enso and Södra have entered into a long-term agreement to collaborate on advancing the use of kraft lignin, a sustainable material derived from the pulping process. Under the partnership, Södra will supply kraft lignin from its new facility in Mönsterås, Sweden, starting in 2027, while Stora Enso will license its advanced lignin technology to Södra. This collaboration aims to develop lignin as a key component in bio-based solutions, benefiting various industries. Both companies see significant potential in lignin as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based materials.

(PRESS RELEASE) HELSINKI, 23-Sep-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Stora Enso has announced a strategic collaboration with Södra, Sweden’s largest forest owner association, to advance the use of kraft lignin as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based materials. Under this long-term agreement, Södra will supply Stora Enso with kraft lignin from its new production facility in Mönsterås, Sweden, which is set to begin operations in 2027. Additionally, Stora Enso will license its cutting-edge lignin technology to Södra to support production efforts.

Earlier this year, Södra made a significant investment in its new kraft lignin production site, underscoring its commitment to expanding sustainable forest-based products. This partnership aims to enhance lignin’s role as a key component in bio-based solutions for various industries.

Juuso Konttinen, Senior Vice President & Head of Biomaterials Growth at Stora Enso, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “This agreement ensures a reliable supply of kraft lignin for our innovative products like Lignode, used in batteries, while reinforcing lignin’s growing importance in creating sustainable solutions across industries.”

Lignin, a natural polymer derived from the pulping process, has gained recognition for its potential in a variety of bio-based applications. As demand for sustainable materials increases, this collaboration allows Södra to incorporate Stora Enso’s advanced technology to ensure high-quality lignin production.

Johannes Bogren, Executive Vice President Södra Bioproducts, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “This agreement demonstrates lignin’s vast potential as a bio-based material. By combining Södra’s sustainable forestry practices with Stora Enso’s innovative technology, we are taking a major step forward in realizing lignin’s potential on the global stage.”

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SOURCE: STORA ENSO OYJ