ESPOO, Finland, July 27, 2011 (Press Release) -The feasibility study of a biodiesel plant planned by Metsäliitto and Vapo is proceeding. Four alternative locations for the plant were reviewed initially, and an environmental impact assessment was carried out on two of the locations. As the study has progressed further, Ajos in Kemi, Finland, has been specified as a potential location. The area was not included in the already assessed alternatives, which is why an environmental impact assessment will now commence separately for it.

The advantages of the plant concept under review are that it can be duplicated and that it is independent of the regional industrial production. The review found Ajos in Kemi to be a suitable location based on its logistical advantages and from the perspective of the raw material and end products.

The biodiesel project of Metsäliitto and Vapo laid out in the feasibility study is one of three projects submitted by the Finnish Ministry of Employment and the Economy to the European Commission to apply for NER300 funding from the EU. The Forest BtL project, owned by Vapo and Metsäliitto, is responsible for the project preparations.