Ahlstrom, a global leader in fiber-based specialty materials, has released its Sustainability Report 2024 today. The report covers Ahlstrom's performance and recognitions in key areas of sustainability and provides insights into Ahlstrom’s strategy and transformation. Ahlstrom’s growth transformation is guided by its purpose: “To Purify and Protect with Every Fiber for a Sustainable World”. Sustainability is a fundamental driver for Ahlstrom, and 2024 demonstrates how delivering on commitments brings value to stakeholders. Ahlstrom’s strong position as a sustainable specialty materials company empowers customers to create solutions to address global trends and accelerate their sustainability efforts.

The investment in new bleaching technology will increase the capacity of the mill and support Stora Enso’s ambitious climate targets. In addition, it will improve operational performance, enhance the overall efficiency of mill maintenance and thus reduce the site’s carbon footprint. Delivery is on EPC basis and includes the installation of two COMPACT PRESS wash presses, a new reactor, an effluent fiber filter, and MC equipment – all from ANDRITZ. The COMPACT PRESS wash press is characterized by its small footprint and high availability, including extremely good washing efficiency, thus ensuring high-quality production and highest pulp cleanliness. For added sustainability and circularity, the mill will reuse the Stora Enso Oulu mill’s bleaching reactor (also supplied by ANDRITZ) and some of the mixers there.

After several months of laboratory work by the Research and Development team in Bordeaux France, Tembec has developed a very high viscosity cellulose grade. Just days ago, the production of this new grade, called Biofloc XV20, took place at the Tartas Specialty Cellulose mill in France. It is a tremendous success because a new world record for viscosity of a wood pulp was achieved. Tembec, the world leader in specialty cellulose for use in the production of cellulose ethers, responded to the needs of its main customers. “This new product can now compete directly with cotton linter pulp and opens new opportunities for our customers,” said Christian Ribeyrolle, Executive Vice President of the Specialty Cellulose Group. “Our customers in this segment needed a replacement for cotton linter pulp by a product which is less affected by market cycles but is of equivalent quality. Biofloc XV20 is now part of our product portfolio.” Click Read More below for additional detail.