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Bio-Insight

LONDON, June 9, 2021 (Press Release) -
  • DS Smith commits to science-based target by 2030, cutting CO2 emissions per ton of product by at least 40%
  • The company is ahead of previous carbon reduction targets, achieving a 23% reduction in emissions per ton of product by the end of 2020

Sustainable packaging leader DS Smith announced today a series of ambitious climate targets, including a science-based target to achieve a 40% reduction of CO2 emissions per ton of product by 2030, compared to 2019 levels, and a commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

These targets will be validated by the Science Based Targets initiative, in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. To further underline the company’s ambition and commitment, DS Smith also announced its membership in the UN’s Race to Zero. To achieve these targets, it will further adopt a number of engineering solutions, including using local biomass and biogas, and renewable electricity like wind and solar.

In 2017, DS Smith announced its target to reduce carbon emissions per ton of product by 30% by 2030, against a 2015 baseline. As part of a coordinated effort across its over 250 sites globally, it has achieved a 23% reduction by the end of 2020, placing it well ahead of its plans.

DS Smith has achieved this by investing in groundbreaking technology, including waste-to-energy solutions, state-of-the-art combined heat and power facilities, and equipment upgrades from new boilers and LED lighting. It has also increased its use of renewable fuel sources, such as biogas and biomass, and improved its energy usage to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“It is widely recognized that heavy manufacturing is one of the most challenging sectors to de-carbonize, but we are committed to playing our part by taking action on the path to Net Zero with a clear plan and roadmap,” said Miles Roberts, Group Chief Executive of DS Smith. We make sustainable packaging that is fiber-based and fully recyclable and believe that through combined leadership in the circular economy and climate action, we are uniquely positioned to have a real impact in helping to reduce the rise in global temperatures.”

“We’ve already made good progress in reducing our carbon as part of our long-term sustainability focus, but we know we need to do much more,” Roberts said. That’s why today we are not only setting ambitious climate targets for ourselves; but strengthening our commitment to delivering more circular solutions for our customers and wider society. I am incredibly proud of all of our people for making this happen.”

Andrew Morlet, CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a strategic partner of DS Smith, said, “We look forward to exploring how our Strategic Partnership with DS Smith can help accelerate the company’s progress towards achieving the climate targets announced today, in parallel with its circular economy commitments. The switch to renewable energy can only reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55%, while the remaining 45% of emissions come from how we make and use products — so the transition to a circular economy is vital in order to tackle climate change, as well as other global challenges.”

In addition to its climate action commitment, DS Smith recently announced its $140m R&D and innovation package to accelerate its work in the circular economy. The new investment underpins DS Smith’s new circular economy led sustainability strategy, Now and Next, which pledges to manufacture 100% recyclable or reusable packaging by 2023 and to take a billion pieces of problem plastics off store shelves by 2025.

About DS Smith

DS Smith is a leading provider of sustainable fiber-based packaging worldwide, which is supported by recycling and papermaking operations. It plays a central role in the value chain across sectors including e-commerce, fast moving consumer goods and industrials. Through its purpose of ‘Redefining Packaging for a Changing World’ and its Now and Next sustainability strategy, DS Smith is committed to leading the transition to the circular economy, while delivering more circular solutions for its customers and wider society – replacing problem plastics, taking carbon out of supply chains and providing innovative recycling solutions. Its bespoke box-to-box in 14 days model, design capabilities and innovation strategy sits at the heart of this response. Headquartered in London and a member of the FTSE 100, DS Smith operates in 34 countries employing around 30,000 people and is a Strategic Partner of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Its history can be traced back to the box-making businesses started in the 1940s by the Smith family. North American operations are based in Atlanta, with 15 manufacturing, paper and recycling facilities, totaling more than 2,000 employees.

DS Smith operates in 34 countries employing around 30,000 people and is a Strategic Partner of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.

DS Smith will report annually its progress across its climate targets in its Sustainability and Annual Reports.

DS Smith announces commitment to Science Based Target for 2030 and Net Zero emissions by 2050

Posted in: Bio-Insight 06/09/2021 - 04:49
LONDON, June 9, 2021 (Press Release) -
  • DS Smith commits to science-based target by 2030, cutting CO2 emissions per ton of product by at least 40%
  • The company is ahead of previous carbon reduction targets, achieving a 23% reduction in emissions per ton of product by the end of 2020

Sustainable packaging leader DS Smith announced today a series of ambitious climate targets, including a science-based target to achieve a 40% reduction of CO2 emissions per ton of product by 2030, compared to 2019 levels, and a commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

These targets will be validated by the Science Based Targets initiative, in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. To further underline the company’s ambition and commitment, DS Smith also announced its membership in the UN’s Race to Zero. To achieve these targets, it will further adopt a number of engineering solutions, including using local biomass and biogas, and renewable electricity like wind and solar.

In 2017, DS Smith announced its target to reduce carbon emissions per ton of product by 30% by 2030, against a 2015 baseline. As part of a coordinated effort across its over 250 sites globally, it has achieved a 23% reduction by the end of 2020, placing it well ahead of its plans.

DS Smith has achieved this by investing in groundbreaking technology, including waste-to-energy solutions, state-of-the-art combined heat and power facilities, and equipment upgrades from new boilers and LED lighting. It has also increased its use of renewable fuel sources, such as biogas and biomass, and improved its energy usage to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“It is widely recognized that heavy manufacturing is one of the most challenging sectors to de-carbonize, but we are committed to playing our part by taking action on the path to Net Zero with a clear plan and roadmap,” said Miles Roberts, Group Chief Executive of DS Smith. We make sustainable packaging that is fiber-based and fully recyclable and believe that through combined leadership in the circular economy and climate action, we are uniquely positioned to have a real impact in helping to reduce the rise in global temperatures.”

“We’ve already made good progress in reducing our carbon as part of our long-term sustainability focus, but we know we need to do much more,” Roberts said. That’s why today we are not only setting ambitious climate targets for ourselves; but strengthening our commitment to delivering more circular solutions for our customers and wider society. I am incredibly proud of all of our people for making this happen.”

Andrew Morlet, CEO of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a strategic partner of DS Smith, said, “We look forward to exploring how our Strategic Partnership with DS Smith can help accelerate the company’s progress towards achieving the climate targets announced today, in parallel with its circular economy commitments. The switch to renewable energy can only reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55%, while the remaining 45% of emissions come from how we make and use products — so the transition to a circular economy is vital in order to tackle climate change, as well as other global challenges.”

In addition to its climate action commitment, DS Smith recently announced its $140m R&D and innovation package to accelerate its work in the circular economy. The new investment underpins DS Smith’s new circular economy led sustainability strategy, Now and Next, which pledges to manufacture 100% recyclable or reusable packaging by 2023 and to take a billion pieces of problem plastics off store shelves by 2025.

About DS Smith

DS Smith is a leading provider of sustainable fiber-based packaging worldwide, which is supported by recycling and papermaking operations. It plays a central role in the value chain across sectors including e-commerce, fast moving consumer goods and industrials. Through its purpose of ‘Redefining Packaging for a Changing World’ and its Now and Next sustainability strategy, DS Smith is committed to leading the transition to the circular economy, while delivering more circular solutions for its customers and wider society – replacing problem plastics, taking carbon out of supply chains and providing innovative recycling solutions. Its bespoke box-to-box in 14 days model, design capabilities and innovation strategy sits at the heart of this response. Headquartered in London and a member of the FTSE 100, DS Smith operates in 34 countries employing around 30,000 people and is a Strategic Partner of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Its history can be traced back to the box-making businesses started in the 1940s by the Smith family. North American operations are based in Atlanta, with 15 manufacturing, paper and recycling facilities, totaling more than 2,000 employees.

DS Smith operates in 34 countries employing around 30,000 people and is a Strategic Partner of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.

DS Smith will report annually its progress across its climate targets in its Sustainability and Annual Reports.

Read more

WINTERTHUR, Switzerland, June 8, 2021 (Press Release) -The Italian company Cartiera Confalone s.p.A. manufactures household and sanitary papers. In 2019, the company decided to build a new, energy-efficient tissue line in Montoro, Avellino. The mill produces jumbo rolls in pure cellulose destined for the converting process, for transformation into toilet paper, industrial rolls, kitchen rolls and napkins. Cartiera Confalone s.p.A. has another paper mill close by, in Maiori.

The challenge

The compressors were not included in the turnkey supply package for the mill. Having learned this, we suggested Sulzer’s HSR turbocompressors for the process. The requirement for the tissue machine was to have 100% oil-free compressors to avoid any stains in the product.

The solution

The customer was very interested in the HSR turbocompressor technology for the new high-quality tissue paper line right from the beginning. After we had carried out technical visits to discuss its feasibility for the new mill, the customer asked for an additional HSR quotation for the converting line of the existing Montoro plant.

Because compressed air eventually finds its way out of the pneumatic devices and enters the factory premises, an oil- free turbocompressor was a must for both mills.

We quoted the HSR 145MR compressor for the new tissue machine and the HSR 145HR for the existing converting machine. The customer placed the purchase order for the two machines with dryers at the end of December 2019, and the turbocompressors were delivered in April and June 2020.

The installation and start-up were very easy in both plants. From an operational point of view, it is a stand-alone solution. The production lines are now working better because there is no risk of oil contamination of the products.

Customer benefit

  • The machine is very quiet and adapts to the need for compressed air much quicker than a standard compressor. That is why the customer was able to reduce the pressure level in the line (from 8.5-9 to 7 bar), which saves a lot of energy. And what’s more, the machine already uses less energy than standard compressors.
  • The hot water recovered from the HSR cooling system (turbines and inverter heat) is used as heating water for the converting plant, bringing remarkable additional savings.
  • Even though the machine is remotely controlled, the customer trusts it to operate safely. Until now they have only checked the air filter condition, which looked perfect after 6 months in use.
  • For the customer, the use of an oil-free compressor was a prerequisite considering future regulations. It is, however, an advantage as early as today to be able to offer the end customers oil-free hygienic paper.

"We based our compressor decision on the 100% oil- free technology as well as on the low maintenance and total costs of ownership of Sulzer’s HSR. It was a good decision." Gaetano Confalone, mill owner

Technical specification

Montoro tissue paper converting line

  • HSR 145 HR

– Duty point 27.2 m³/min @ 4.5-9 bar

– Max. input power 205 kW

– Cooling water flow 2.1 l/s

– Max. energy transferred to coolant 190 kW

  • Refrigerant dryer Drypoint RA 2400/AC

About Sulzer

Sulzer is a global leader in fluid engineering. We specialize in pumping, agitation, mixing, separation and application technologies for fluids of all types. Our customers benefit from our commitment to innovation, performance and quality and from our responsive network of 180 world-class production facilities and service centers across the globe. Sulzer has been headquartered in Winterthur, Switzerland, since 1834. In 2020, our 15’000 employees delivered revenues of CHF 3.3 billion. Our shares are traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange (SIX: SUN). The Pumps Equipment division specializes in pumping solutions specifically engineered for the processes of our customers. We provide pumps, agitators, compressors, grinders and screens developed through intensive research and development in fluid dynamics and advanced materials. We are a market leader in pumping solutions for water, oil and gas, power, chemicals and most industrial segments.

Sulzer’s HSR turbocompressor technology helps Italian company Cartiera Confalone's energy-efficient tissue line in Avellino, Italy

Posted in: Bio-Insight 06/08/2021 - 08:28

WINTERTHUR, Switzerland, June 8, 2021 (Press Release) -The Italian company Cartiera Confalone s.p.A. manufactures household and sanitary papers. In 2019, the company decided to build a new, energy-efficient tissue line in Montoro, Avellino. The mill produces jumbo rolls in pure cellulose destined for the converting process, for transformation into toilet paper, industrial rolls, kitchen rolls and napkins. Cartiera Confalone s.p.A. has another paper mill close by, in Maiori.

The challenge

The compressors were not included in the turnkey supply package for the mill. Having learned this, we suggested Sulzer’s HSR turbocompressors for the process. The requirement for the tissue machine was to have 100% oil-free compressors to avoid any stains in the product.

The solution

The customer was very interested in the HSR turbocompressor technology for the new high-quality tissue paper line right from the beginning. After we had carried out technical visits to discuss its feasibility for the new mill, the customer asked for an additional HSR quotation for the converting line of the existing Montoro plant.

Because compressed air eventually finds its way out of the pneumatic devices and enters the factory premises, an oil- free turbocompressor was a must for both mills.

We quoted the HSR 145MR compressor for the new tissue machine and the HSR 145HR for the existing converting machine. The customer placed the purchase order for the two machines with dryers at the end of December 2019, and the turbocompressors were delivered in April and June 2020.

The installation and start-up were very easy in both plants. From an operational point of view, it is a stand-alone solution. The production lines are now working better because there is no risk of oil contamination of the products.

Customer benefit

  • The machine is very quiet and adapts to the need for compressed air much quicker than a standard compressor. That is why the customer was able to reduce the pressure level in the line (from 8.5-9 to 7 bar), which saves a lot of energy. And what’s more, the machine already uses less energy than standard compressors.
  • The hot water recovered from the HSR cooling system (turbines and inverter heat) is used as heating water for the converting plant, bringing remarkable additional savings.
  • Even though the machine is remotely controlled, the customer trusts it to operate safely. Until now they have only checked the air filter condition, which looked perfect after 6 months in use.
  • For the customer, the use of an oil-free compressor was a prerequisite considering future regulations. It is, however, an advantage as early as today to be able to offer the end customers oil-free hygienic paper.

"We based our compressor decision on the 100% oil- free technology as well as on the low maintenance and total costs of ownership of Sulzer’s HSR. It was a good decision." Gaetano Confalone, mill owner

Technical specification

Montoro tissue paper converting line

  • HSR 145 HR

– Duty point 27.2 m³/min @ 4.5-9 bar

– Max. input power 205 kW

– Cooling water flow 2.1 l/s

– Max. energy transferred to coolant 190 kW

  • Refrigerant dryer Drypoint RA 2400/AC

About Sulzer

Sulzer is a global leader in fluid engineering. We specialize in pumping, agitation, mixing, separation and application technologies for fluids of all types. Our customers benefit from our commitment to innovation, performance and quality and from our responsive network of 180 world-class production facilities and service centers across the globe. Sulzer has been headquartered in Winterthur, Switzerland, since 1834. In 2020, our 15’000 employees delivered revenues of CHF 3.3 billion. Our shares are traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange (SIX: SUN). The Pumps Equipment division specializes in pumping solutions specifically engineered for the processes of our customers. We provide pumps, agitators, compressors, grinders and screens developed through intensive research and development in fluid dynamics and advanced materials. We are a market leader in pumping solutions for water, oil and gas, power, chemicals and most industrial segments.

Read more

PENSACOLA, FL, June 7, 2021 (Pensacola News Journal ) -Oren International started as an entrepreneurial venture more than 25 years ago in Pensacola native Alan NeSmith's house.

Now the company is a leader in the custom packaging industry, providing solutions for restaurants, retailers, medical and industrial partners alike. International and national brands such as Disney, Macy's and Johnson & Johnson have all turned to Oren International for their custom paper needs.

But as the demand for paper increases, so does the output of energy and carbon emissions. Oren International and the concept of paper packaging are far from new, but to move forward in an ever-changing world, it became evident that innovation was needed.

Pensacola News Journal - Oren International unveils new rooftop solar system at Pensacola facility

Fastmarkets RISI is not responsible for the reliability or availability of content on external websites.

Packaging converter Oren International unveils new rooftop solar system at Florida facility

Posted in: Bio-Insight 06/07/2021 - 15:54

PENSACOLA, FL, June 7, 2021 (Pensacola News Journal ) -Oren International started as an entrepreneurial venture more than 25 years ago in Pensacola native Alan NeSmith's house.

Now the company is a leader in the custom packaging industry, providing solutions for restaurants, retailers, medical and industrial partners alike. International and national brands such as Disney, Macy's and Johnson & Johnson have all turned to Oren International for their custom paper needs.

But as the demand for paper increases, so does the output of energy and carbon emissions. Oren International and the concept of paper packaging are far from new, but to move forward in an ever-changing world, it became evident that innovation was needed.

Pensacola News Journal - Oren International unveils new rooftop solar system at Pensacola facility

Fastmarkets RISI is not responsible for the reliability or availability of content on external websites.

Read more

ARNEBURG, Germany, June 3, 2021 (Press Release) -Mercer Stendal not only produces approximately 127,500 kilowatt hours of bioelectricity per hour at the Arneburg pulp mill for its own consumption and for feeding into the public grid, but is now also using the energy on the road.

On the morning of June 3rd, Managing Director André Listemann accepted an ID.3 electric vehicle from Anne Isensee, Volkswagen Sales Manager at the Rosier dealership in Stendal, which will supplement Mercer Stendal’s fleet in the future, powered by green electricity from Arneburg.

“Through the use of this vehicle, we are continuing down the path of electric mobility that we embarked upon last year,” Listemann explained. Mercer Stendal has already created the necessary infrastructure to charge electric vehicles on the plant premises, with implementation in the fall of 2020. “The addition was so well received that we have since installed a second charging station,” the Mercer managing director continued.

The company is supporting the transition to electric mobility with current favourable prices and is pleased to see a good response from its own employees. “If the energy demand for these cars at our site continues to rise like this, a second expansion stage is already being planned. Up to 18 cars will be able to refuel simultaneously with green electricity from biomass,” André Listemann explained, looking to the future. This is not a jumping-on-the-bandwagon situation for Mercer, but rather part of the solution on Mercer Stendal’s continuous goal for ecological change. “Our raw material is renewable,” stated Listemann, the head of the pulp mill.

Compared to a passenger car with an internal combustion engine, Mercer Stendal expects to save about 65% in energy costs with the new Volkswagen ID.3. In addition, the vehicle’s consumption is completely neutral in terms of carbon dioxide.

At the handover, those responsible at Autohaus Rosier were not only pleased to continue the now 17-year collaboration with Mercer Stendal since the opening of the plant in 2004, but now also to accompany Mercer Stendal along their path of electric mobility. “For Volkswagen, as a manufacturer, as well as for us as a dealership, electric mobility is the central topic of this time,” said Anne Isensee. “Accordingly, we are pleased that we could inspire Mercer Stendal with our new ID.3. This will enable us to put self-produced bioenergy on the road by means of a safe vehicle,” the sales manager continued.

Mercer Stendal produces its self-produced Bioenergy for own consumption and now also uses it for public grid on road

Posted in: Bio-Insight 06/07/2021 - 13:23

ARNEBURG, Germany, June 3, 2021 (Press Release) -Mercer Stendal not only produces approximately 127,500 kilowatt hours of bioelectricity per hour at the Arneburg pulp mill for its own consumption and for feeding into the public grid, but is now also using the energy on the road.

On the morning of June 3rd, Managing Director André Listemann accepted an ID.3 electric vehicle from Anne Isensee, Volkswagen Sales Manager at the Rosier dealership in Stendal, which will supplement Mercer Stendal’s fleet in the future, powered by green electricity from Arneburg.

“Through the use of this vehicle, we are continuing down the path of electric mobility that we embarked upon last year,” Listemann explained. Mercer Stendal has already created the necessary infrastructure to charge electric vehicles on the plant premises, with implementation in the fall of 2020. “The addition was so well received that we have since installed a second charging station,” the Mercer managing director continued.

The company is supporting the transition to electric mobility with current favourable prices and is pleased to see a good response from its own employees. “If the energy demand for these cars at our site continues to rise like this, a second expansion stage is already being planned. Up to 18 cars will be able to refuel simultaneously with green electricity from biomass,” André Listemann explained, looking to the future. This is not a jumping-on-the-bandwagon situation for Mercer, but rather part of the solution on Mercer Stendal’s continuous goal for ecological change. “Our raw material is renewable,” stated Listemann, the head of the pulp mill.

Compared to a passenger car with an internal combustion engine, Mercer Stendal expects to save about 65% in energy costs with the new Volkswagen ID.3. In addition, the vehicle’s consumption is completely neutral in terms of carbon dioxide.

At the handover, those responsible at Autohaus Rosier were not only pleased to continue the now 17-year collaboration with Mercer Stendal since the opening of the plant in 2004, but now also to accompany Mercer Stendal along their path of electric mobility. “For Volkswagen, as a manufacturer, as well as for us as a dealership, electric mobility is the central topic of this time,” said Anne Isensee. “Accordingly, we are pleased that we could inspire Mercer Stendal with our new ID.3. This will enable us to put self-produced bioenergy on the road by means of a safe vehicle,” the sales manager continued.

Read more

MADRID, Spain, June 7, 2021 (Press Release) -Ence’s biofactory in Navia has renewed the voluntary European EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) certificate, a community regulation of eco-management and eco-auditing that promotes the continuous improvement of the environmental behavior of organizations, and in which this plant is a pioneer in the Asturian industrial sector. In addition, and also through the same audit process, it has been guaranteed that the biofactory complies with the ISO 14.001 certification of environmental management systems.

Both recognitions are based on the improvement of the environmental performance of Ence’s facilities in Navia in the last year after the investments made for the technological optimization of the biofactory. Thus, the specific consumption of water has been reduced by 11%, the quality of the effluent has been significantly improved and the ratio of total particle emission per ton of pulp produced has been reduced by 25%, maximizing the concept of circular economy. with the recovery of 98% of the waste produced, among other parameters. In addition, this past May, the plant reached efficiency levels at historic highs for the production of cellulose and renewable energy.

This environmental improvement in the biofactory is directly related to the promotion of sustainable forest management that the company is leading in Asturias, in order to supply wood certified by the most recognized international standards. Thus, Ence directly manages nearly 2,000 hectares of forest masses in Asturias. Within its forest management, the company applies criteria to promote the economic and social development of its surroundings, while working to guarantee conservation from an environmental point of view.

Both in Asturias and in the rest of the territory, Ence is committed to the certification of sustainable forest management: more than 85% of the area under direct management is certified by the most recognized international standards. In addition, the company aims to be a benchmark in the sector, extending this priority to the entire mountain value chain. Thus, almost 80% of the wood used by the company in its biofactories has some certification of sustainable forest management.

The latest investments in the Navia biofactories have further strengthened Ence’s leadership and dynamic role in the Northwest forestry sector. It is estimated that the plant currently generates a total of 6,900 jobs, between direct, indirect and induced, of which 2,900 are directly within the forestry sector.

It is a job intrinsically linked to the rural environment, and which allows creating wealth and establishing a population in the face of the phenomenon of “Empty Spain”. The forestry sector has therefore become a sustainable, viable and future-oriented alternative for generating employment for the most affected areas within the just ecological transition. With more significance in a region with a long mining tradition such as Asturias, where in recent years numerous mines and coal-related power plants have been closed, with the consequent loss of hundreds of jobs.

On the other hand, the cellulose and renewable energy production activity in the Navia biofactory from local wood and with certified sustainable forest management has positive environmental effects. It allows to put on the market natural, renewable and recyclable products that can replace materials based on fossil fuels, such as plastics.

Ence’s new investment projects for the shipping plant, totaling 495 million euros, are aimed at growth and diversification of production towards cellulose for textile and absorbent products. These plans will allow the forestry sector of the Principality, together with Ence, to become a reference within the bioeconomy, providing through its wood bioproducts derived from natural fibers, called to be the protagonists of the new and most necessary consumption models than ever in society.

Ence’s biofactory in Navia renews EMAS eco-management and eco-auditing certificate, increases its efficiency and competitiveness

Posted in: Bio-Insight 06/07/2021 - 09:46

MADRID, Spain, June 7, 2021 (Press Release) -Ence’s biofactory in Navia has renewed the voluntary European EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) certificate, a community regulation of eco-management and eco-auditing that promotes the continuous improvement of the environmental behavior of organizations, and in which this plant is a pioneer in the Asturian industrial sector. In addition, and also through the same audit process, it has been guaranteed that the biofactory complies with the ISO 14.001 certification of environmental management systems.

Both recognitions are based on the improvement of the environmental performance of Ence’s facilities in Navia in the last year after the investments made for the technological optimization of the biofactory. Thus, the specific consumption of water has been reduced by 11%, the quality of the effluent has been significantly improved and the ratio of total particle emission per ton of pulp produced has been reduced by 25%, maximizing the concept of circular economy. with the recovery of 98% of the waste produced, among other parameters. In addition, this past May, the plant reached efficiency levels at historic highs for the production of cellulose and renewable energy.

This environmental improvement in the biofactory is directly related to the promotion of sustainable forest management that the company is leading in Asturias, in order to supply wood certified by the most recognized international standards. Thus, Ence directly manages nearly 2,000 hectares of forest masses in Asturias. Within its forest management, the company applies criteria to promote the economic and social development of its surroundings, while working to guarantee conservation from an environmental point of view.

Both in Asturias and in the rest of the territory, Ence is committed to the certification of sustainable forest management: more than 85% of the area under direct management is certified by the most recognized international standards. In addition, the company aims to be a benchmark in the sector, extending this priority to the entire mountain value chain. Thus, almost 80% of the wood used by the company in its biofactories has some certification of sustainable forest management.

The latest investments in the Navia biofactories have further strengthened Ence’s leadership and dynamic role in the Northwest forestry sector. It is estimated that the plant currently generates a total of 6,900 jobs, between direct, indirect and induced, of which 2,900 are directly within the forestry sector.

It is a job intrinsically linked to the rural environment, and which allows creating wealth and establishing a population in the face of the phenomenon of “Empty Spain”. The forestry sector has therefore become a sustainable, viable and future-oriented alternative for generating employment for the most affected areas within the just ecological transition. With more significance in a region with a long mining tradition such as Asturias, where in recent years numerous mines and coal-related power plants have been closed, with the consequent loss of hundreds of jobs.

On the other hand, the cellulose and renewable energy production activity in the Navia biofactory from local wood and with certified sustainable forest management has positive environmental effects. It allows to put on the market natural, renewable and recyclable products that can replace materials based on fossil fuels, such as plastics.

Ence’s new investment projects for the shipping plant, totaling 495 million euros, are aimed at growth and diversification of production towards cellulose for textile and absorbent products. These plans will allow the forestry sector of the Principality, together with Ence, to become a reference within the bioeconomy, providing through its wood bioproducts derived from natural fibers, called to be the protagonists of the new and most necessary consumption models than ever in society.

Read more

CAMARILLO, CA, June 3, 2021 (Business Wire) -Jefferson Enterprise Energy and Zume announced a joint venture, creating one of the world’s first entirely renewable energy-powered manufacturing facilities that will produce compostable molded fiber products. The Jefferson Enterprise Energy owned and operated manufacturing facility will rely on Zume’s patented molded fiber manufacturing equipment, technology and professional services.

“The plans for their Lufkin project are right in the wheelhouse of our city’s economic development goals. Manufacturing is not about a quick exit strategy but is centered on a long-term valuation creation and Lufkin, Texas is the perfect location for this facility.”

The Jefferson Enterprise Energy - Zume partnership comes at a critical time as sustainable packaging is a $320 billion a year business. Until now, there has been no economically viable solution to move away from single-use plastic. Through Zume’s patented molded fiber manufacturing equipment system and technology, global food brands are able to transition from plastic packaging to sustainable solutions without significant disruption to their manufacturing processes or their bottom line.

“Jefferson Enterprise Energy is committed to being a global leader in the mass production of recyclable and compostable molded-fiber sustainable solutions, creating one of the world’s first entirely renewable energy and sustainable products supply-chain manufacturing operations,” said Al Salazar, Founder and CEO, Jefferson Enterprise Energy. “Our partnership and reliance on Zume’s sustainable solution product manufacturing technology and expertise empowers us to move forward with confidence, as we help lead the way toward replacing plastics and styrofoam with superior and affordable molded-fiber products.”

Jefferson Enterprise Energy’s new sustainable solutions manufacturing facility is being financed and built in Lufkin, Texas -- a facility that will source its operating energy from Jefferson Enterprise Energy’s nearby biomass energy plant. The raw materials for the new facility will be sourced from unused farming by-products, creating an entirely closed loop system where the food that is grown creates the energy to power the facility as well as provide the input materials for the compostable packaging itself, and then after use, is used to help grow more food.

“Soon, the world will look to Lufkin,Texas as a center-point for the future of 100% renewable energy powered mass production of sustainable containers and products that will ultimately replace plastics and styrofoam,” said Alex Garden, Chairman and CEO, Zume. “At Zume, we are able to deploy our manufacturing machinery and technology very efficiently, helping to ensure that the molded-fiber products manufactured by Jefferson Enterprise Energy are high-quality, very efficient and economically viable.”

“Jefferson Enterprise Energy sets the gold standard for local economic growth by investing in the future of biomass products,” said Mark Hicks, Mayor of Lufkin, Texas. “The plans for their Lufkin project are right in the wheelhouse of our city’s economic development goals. Manufacturing is not about a quick exit strategy but is centered on a long-term valuation creation and Lufkin, Texas is the perfect location for this facility.”

Separate from its global manufacturing partnerships, Zume also manufactures its sustainable solutions containers at Zume’s facility in Camarillo, California. Zume is engaged in world-wide sustainable solutions manufacturing partnerships with Parason and Satia Industries. Currently, Zume is available in 20 countries through its network of premier food brands, brokers, and distributors, including Boon Distribution, Click Chefs, Detox Folks, Majestic Timbers, Packaging Supplies, Prestige Tissues, Rebel Foods, Saintjo Innovations, SealTec, and SR Papers.

About Zume

Founded in 2015, Zume is actively reducing the world’s plastic waste with economically viable substitutes for plastic packaging. As creators of the world’s most advanced molded-fiber manufacturing system, Zume is a global provider of sustainability solutions and offers a vast range of sustainable manufactured solutions and services across the food, beverage, healthcare, and CPG categories.

Jefferson Enterprise Energy announces joint venture with Zume to create renewable energy-powered compostable molded fiber products plant in Texas

Posted in: Bio-Insight 06/04/2021 - 12:11

CAMARILLO, CA, June 3, 2021 (Business Wire) -Jefferson Enterprise Energy and Zume announced a joint venture, creating one of the world’s first entirely renewable energy-powered manufacturing facilities that will produce compostable molded fiber products. The Jefferson Enterprise Energy owned and operated manufacturing facility will rely on Zume’s patented molded fiber manufacturing equipment, technology and professional services.

“The plans for their Lufkin project are right in the wheelhouse of our city’s economic development goals. Manufacturing is not about a quick exit strategy but is centered on a long-term valuation creation and Lufkin, Texas is the perfect location for this facility.”

The Jefferson Enterprise Energy - Zume partnership comes at a critical time as sustainable packaging is a $320 billion a year business. Until now, there has been no economically viable solution to move away from single-use plastic. Through Zume’s patented molded fiber manufacturing equipment system and technology, global food brands are able to transition from plastic packaging to sustainable solutions without significant disruption to their manufacturing processes or their bottom line.

“Jefferson Enterprise Energy is committed to being a global leader in the mass production of recyclable and compostable molded-fiber sustainable solutions, creating one of the world’s first entirely renewable energy and sustainable products supply-chain manufacturing operations,” said Al Salazar, Founder and CEO, Jefferson Enterprise Energy. “Our partnership and reliance on Zume’s sustainable solution product manufacturing technology and expertise empowers us to move forward with confidence, as we help lead the way toward replacing plastics and styrofoam with superior and affordable molded-fiber products.”

Jefferson Enterprise Energy’s new sustainable solutions manufacturing facility is being financed and built in Lufkin, Texas -- a facility that will source its operating energy from Jefferson Enterprise Energy’s nearby biomass energy plant. The raw materials for the new facility will be sourced from unused farming by-products, creating an entirely closed loop system where the food that is grown creates the energy to power the facility as well as provide the input materials for the compostable packaging itself, and then after use, is used to help grow more food.

“Soon, the world will look to Lufkin,Texas as a center-point for the future of 100% renewable energy powered mass production of sustainable containers and products that will ultimately replace plastics and styrofoam,” said Alex Garden, Chairman and CEO, Zume. “At Zume, we are able to deploy our manufacturing machinery and technology very efficiently, helping to ensure that the molded-fiber products manufactured by Jefferson Enterprise Energy are high-quality, very efficient and economically viable.”

“Jefferson Enterprise Energy sets the gold standard for local economic growth by investing in the future of biomass products,” said Mark Hicks, Mayor of Lufkin, Texas. “The plans for their Lufkin project are right in the wheelhouse of our city’s economic development goals. Manufacturing is not about a quick exit strategy but is centered on a long-term valuation creation and Lufkin, Texas is the perfect location for this facility.”

Separate from its global manufacturing partnerships, Zume also manufactures its sustainable solutions containers at Zume’s facility in Camarillo, California. Zume is engaged in world-wide sustainable solutions manufacturing partnerships with Parason and Satia Industries. Currently, Zume is available in 20 countries through its network of premier food brands, brokers, and distributors, including Boon Distribution, Click Chefs, Detox Folks, Majestic Timbers, Packaging Supplies, Prestige Tissues, Rebel Foods, Saintjo Innovations, SealTec, and SR Papers.

About Zume

Founded in 2015, Zume is actively reducing the world’s plastic waste with economically viable substitutes for plastic packaging. As creators of the world’s most advanced molded-fiber manufacturing system, Zume is a global provider of sustainability solutions and offers a vast range of sustainable manufactured solutions and services across the food, beverage, healthcare, and CPG categories.

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BRUSSELS, June 3, 2021 (Press Release) -The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, the prolongation and modification of an existing German scheme to support the production of electricity from new, modernised and retrofitted highly efficient cogeneration (‘CHP') plants (except coal and lignite-fired CHP). The scheme (‘Kraft-Wärme-Kopplungsgesetz' – ‘KWKG 2020'), which is approved until 2026, will further promote energy efficiency, lead to a better integration of cogenerated power into the German electricity market and lower CO2 emissions, without unduly distorting competition.

Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy, said: “The German scheme will promote energy efficiency and contribute to further reductions in CO2 emissions, in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal. Compared to the existing German scheme to support cogenerated electricity, the new scheme introduces new features which aim at further ensuring the competitiveness of the tenders through which the support will be granted, as well as at keeping electricity prices low for consumers and incentivising cogeneration plants to operate at times of higher electricity demand, that is when it's needed the most.”

The German measure

Germany notified the Commission of its intention to prolong and modify, under the German Combined Heat and Power Generation Act 2020 (‘Kraft-Wärme-Kopplungsgesetz' – ‘KWKG 2020', an existing aid scheme to support new and modernised highly efficient CHP plants, as well as the construction and expansion of energy-efficient district heating/cooling networks and the construction and retrofitting of heating/cooling storage facilities. The Commission had approved the original scheme under State aid rules as part of its 2016 decision on the KWKG 2016 (SA.42393).

Under the scheme, as in the existing scheme, operators of CHP installations will have to offer their electricity on the market and will receive their support in the form of a fixed premium on top of the market price, except for very small installations, which will be eligible to receive feed-in tariffs.

The annual budget for support to CHP installations, storage facilities and district heating/cooling networks amounts to €1.8 billion.

Compared to the existing scheme, under the KWKG 2020 :

  • The threshold for operators to participate in a competitive bidding process to receive support was lowered from 1 megawatt (MW) to 500 kilowatt (kW) installed capacity. This is expected to increase the pool of potential bidders and increase the competitiveness of auctions.
  • In light of the low participation rate reported in the latest tenders, an automatic rule to adjust tendered quantities in case of undersubscription was introduced to safeguard competitiveness of auctions and keeping costs to a minimum for consumers and taxpayers.
  • The number of operating hours eligible for support was reduced to further incentivise the beneficiaries to produce electricity in highly efficient cogeneration when it is needed the most i.e. at times of higher electricity demand.

The Commission's assessment

The Commission assessed the measure under EU State aid rules, in particular the 2014 Guidelines on State aid for environmental protection and energy.

The Commission found that the support is necessary to help Germany meet its targets for energy efficiency and for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

It also found that the aid is proportionate and limited to the minimum necessary, in particular since the level of the aid will mostly be set through competitive tenders. In the cases in which remuneration is set administratively, the aid is limited to the production cost, which cannot be recuperated through market revenue.

Finally, the Commission found that the positive effects of the measure, in particular its positive environmental effects, outweigh its negative effects in terms of possible distortions of competition.

Furthermore, Germany has developed a detailed plan for the evaluation of the KWKG 2020 by an independent economic expert, and has committed to improve the data gathering and the use of empirical methodologies in this respect. Germany will assess the new features of the scheme and the efficiency of the measure in achieving greenhouse gas emissions reductions.

On this basis, the Commission concluded that the scheme is in line with EU State aid rules, as it supports projects promoting the energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, in line with the European Green Deal, without unduly distorting competition.

Background

The Commission's 2014 Guidelines on State Aid for Environmental Protection and Energy allow Member States to support energy efficiency measures, including cogeneration and district heating and cooling, subject to certain conditions. These rules aim at helping Member States meet the EU's ambitious energy and climate targets, while limiting the possible cost for taxpayers and possible distortions of competition in the Single Market to the minimum.

The Energy Efficiency Directive of 2018 established an EU-wide binding energy efficiency target of at least 32.5% by 2030. With the European Green Deal Communication in 2019, the Commission reinforced its climate ambitions, setting an objective of no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050. In April 2021, the European Council and the Parliament reached a provisional agreement on the net 55% target for 2030, which sets the ground for the ‘fit for 55' legislative proposals scheduled for July 2021.

The non-confidential version of the decision will be published in the State aid register on the competition website under the case number SA.56826. New publications of State aid decisions on the internet and in the Official Journal are listed in the Competition Weekly e-News.

European Commission approves German support for cogenerated electricity under EU State aid rules

Posted in: Bio-Insight 06/04/2021 - 04:33

BRUSSELS, June 3, 2021 (Press Release) -The European Commission has approved, under EU State aid rules, the prolongation and modification of an existing German scheme to support the production of electricity from new, modernised and retrofitted highly efficient cogeneration (‘CHP') plants (except coal and lignite-fired CHP). The scheme (‘Kraft-Wärme-Kopplungsgesetz' – ‘KWKG 2020'), which is approved until 2026, will further promote energy efficiency, lead to a better integration of cogenerated power into the German electricity market and lower CO2 emissions, without unduly distorting competition.

Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy, said: “The German scheme will promote energy efficiency and contribute to further reductions in CO2 emissions, in line with the objectives of the European Green Deal. Compared to the existing German scheme to support cogenerated electricity, the new scheme introduces new features which aim at further ensuring the competitiveness of the tenders through which the support will be granted, as well as at keeping electricity prices low for consumers and incentivising cogeneration plants to operate at times of higher electricity demand, that is when it's needed the most.”

The German measure

Germany notified the Commission of its intention to prolong and modify, under the German Combined Heat and Power Generation Act 2020 (‘Kraft-Wärme-Kopplungsgesetz' – ‘KWKG 2020', an existing aid scheme to support new and modernised highly efficient CHP plants, as well as the construction and expansion of energy-efficient district heating/cooling networks and the construction and retrofitting of heating/cooling storage facilities. The Commission had approved the original scheme under State aid rules as part of its 2016 decision on the KWKG 2016 (SA.42393).

Under the scheme, as in the existing scheme, operators of CHP installations will have to offer their electricity on the market and will receive their support in the form of a fixed premium on top of the market price, except for very small installations, which will be eligible to receive feed-in tariffs.

The annual budget for support to CHP installations, storage facilities and district heating/cooling networks amounts to €1.8 billion.

Compared to the existing scheme, under the KWKG 2020 :

  • The threshold for operators to participate in a competitive bidding process to receive support was lowered from 1 megawatt (MW) to 500 kilowatt (kW) installed capacity. This is expected to increase the pool of potential bidders and increase the competitiveness of auctions.
  • In light of the low participation rate reported in the latest tenders, an automatic rule to adjust tendered quantities in case of undersubscription was introduced to safeguard competitiveness of auctions and keeping costs to a minimum for consumers and taxpayers.
  • The number of operating hours eligible for support was reduced to further incentivise the beneficiaries to produce electricity in highly efficient cogeneration when it is needed the most i.e. at times of higher electricity demand.

The Commission's assessment

The Commission assessed the measure under EU State aid rules, in particular the 2014 Guidelines on State aid for environmental protection and energy.

The Commission found that the support is necessary to help Germany meet its targets for energy efficiency and for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

It also found that the aid is proportionate and limited to the minimum necessary, in particular since the level of the aid will mostly be set through competitive tenders. In the cases in which remuneration is set administratively, the aid is limited to the production cost, which cannot be recuperated through market revenue.

Finally, the Commission found that the positive effects of the measure, in particular its positive environmental effects, outweigh its negative effects in terms of possible distortions of competition.

Furthermore, Germany has developed a detailed plan for the evaluation of the KWKG 2020 by an independent economic expert, and has committed to improve the data gathering and the use of empirical methodologies in this respect. Germany will assess the new features of the scheme and the efficiency of the measure in achieving greenhouse gas emissions reductions.

On this basis, the Commission concluded that the scheme is in line with EU State aid rules, as it supports projects promoting the energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, in line with the European Green Deal, without unduly distorting competition.

Background

The Commission's 2014 Guidelines on State Aid for Environmental Protection and Energy allow Member States to support energy efficiency measures, including cogeneration and district heating and cooling, subject to certain conditions. These rules aim at helping Member States meet the EU's ambitious energy and climate targets, while limiting the possible cost for taxpayers and possible distortions of competition in the Single Market to the minimum.

The Energy Efficiency Directive of 2018 established an EU-wide binding energy efficiency target of at least 32.5% by 2030. With the European Green Deal Communication in 2019, the Commission reinforced its climate ambitions, setting an objective of no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050. In April 2021, the European Council and the Parliament reached a provisional agreement on the net 55% target for 2030, which sets the ground for the ‘fit for 55' legislative proposals scheduled for July 2021.

The non-confidential version of the decision will be published in the State aid register on the competition website under the case number SA.56826. New publications of State aid decisions on the internet and in the Official Journal are listed in the Competition Weekly e-News.

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LUCCA, ITALY, June 3, 2021 (Press Release) -Toscotec has launched the new generation design of its shoe press TT NextPress, featuring superior drying performances and energy savings, resulting from R&D activities in cooperation with Voith. TT NextPress delivers a stable after-press dryness rate of more than 47% on a tissue line operating above 2,000 mpm speed. This dryness level ensures a substantial reduction of energy consumption, as the Yankee and the hoods use significantly less thermal energy to complete the paper drying process.

Superior Dewatering delivers higher Dryness

A new shoe shape has been introduced to enhance the nip width and increase the peak pressure at the nip outlet, reshaping the outward pressure into a steeper curve. This eliminates the risk of paper re-wetting at the exit of the nip, and increases sheet dryness, without affecting the belt’s life.

Continuous Nip Control for maximum Reliability

Machine operators can now visualize on the DCS (Distributed Control System) the actual nip pressure of TT NextPress in real time. The operator can regulate the nip pressure at which the TT NextPress is loaded onto the Yankee resulting from both a theoretical and empirical system, as the nip pressure is calculated based on the shoe press loading system and also measured by the load cells installed on the press mechanical stop.

Higher Precision: the perfect fit for Rebuilds

In rebuilds, the installation of a shoe press on an old-style cast iron Yankee can compromise the lifetime of both the felt and the belt. Toscotec has designed a dedicated solution on the TT NextPress consisting of multiple independent pressure zones, up to 14 in total, of which 12 are located on the edges. This design ensures a perfect fit between the shoe and the Yankee deformation, and maximizes the clothing lifetime.

Improved Safety and Yankee Protection

TT NextPress nip pressure lines are fitted with a pressure accumulator pre-charged with nitrogen, which is installed inside the belt as close as possible to the loading pistons. The accumulators absorb instantaneous overloads or pressure increases on the line due to the presence of external elements or paper wads in the nip area. This eliminates the risk of any possible damage to the Yankee dryer.

The new TT NextPress builds on the features of its previous version which have been widely appreciated by tissue producers around the globe. These include:

  • the hydraulic loading system, which ensures top pressure uniformity and reliability
  • the extreme flexibility offered by the shoe tilting regulation during operations
  • the maximization of the belt lifetime both through the continuous digital monitoring of the heads position with regular lateral movements of the belt, and through the sleeve tensioning device actuated by hydraulic cylinders, which delivers a constant and adjustable stretching force.

Toscotec, together with Voith, has sold more than 60 shoe presses for tissue machines all over the world.

Toscotec introduces new generation design of its shoe press TT NextPress for tissue

Posted in: Bio-Insight 06/03/2021 - 02:51

LUCCA, ITALY, June 3, 2021 (Press Release) -Toscotec has launched the new generation design of its shoe press TT NextPress, featuring superior drying performances and energy savings, resulting from R&D activities in cooperation with Voith. TT NextPress delivers a stable after-press dryness rate of more than 47% on a tissue line operating above 2,000 mpm speed. This dryness level ensures a substantial reduction of energy consumption, as the Yankee and the hoods use significantly less thermal energy to complete the paper drying process.

Superior Dewatering delivers higher Dryness

A new shoe shape has been introduced to enhance the nip width and increase the peak pressure at the nip outlet, reshaping the outward pressure into a steeper curve. This eliminates the risk of paper re-wetting at the exit of the nip, and increases sheet dryness, without affecting the belt’s life.

Continuous Nip Control for maximum Reliability

Machine operators can now visualize on the DCS (Distributed Control System) the actual nip pressure of TT NextPress in real time. The operator can regulate the nip pressure at which the TT NextPress is loaded onto the Yankee resulting from both a theoretical and empirical system, as the nip pressure is calculated based on the shoe press loading system and also measured by the load cells installed on the press mechanical stop.

Higher Precision: the perfect fit for Rebuilds

In rebuilds, the installation of a shoe press on an old-style cast iron Yankee can compromise the lifetime of both the felt and the belt. Toscotec has designed a dedicated solution on the TT NextPress consisting of multiple independent pressure zones, up to 14 in total, of which 12 are located on the edges. This design ensures a perfect fit between the shoe and the Yankee deformation, and maximizes the clothing lifetime.

Improved Safety and Yankee Protection

TT NextPress nip pressure lines are fitted with a pressure accumulator pre-charged with nitrogen, which is installed inside the belt as close as possible to the loading pistons. The accumulators absorb instantaneous overloads or pressure increases on the line due to the presence of external elements or paper wads in the nip area. This eliminates the risk of any possible damage to the Yankee dryer.

The new TT NextPress builds on the features of its previous version which have been widely appreciated by tissue producers around the globe. These include:

  • the hydraulic loading system, which ensures top pressure uniformity and reliability
  • the extreme flexibility offered by the shoe tilting regulation during operations
  • the maximization of the belt lifetime both through the continuous digital monitoring of the heads position with regular lateral movements of the belt, and through the sleeve tensioning device actuated by hydraulic cylinders, which delivers a constant and adjustable stretching force.

Toscotec, together with Voith, has sold more than 60 shoe presses for tissue machines all over the world.

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