Stora Enso and Södra collaborate on kraft lignin supply to advance lignin as a sustainable raw material
Stora Enso is pleased to announce a milestone partnership with Södra, Sweden’s largest forest owner association. The two companies have signed a long-term agreement under which Södra will supply Stora Enso with kraft lignin from Södra’s Mönsterås site, in Sweden. This facility is set to begin operations in 2027.As part of this collaboration, Stora Enso grants Södra a license to its innovative technology in lignin area.
Earlier this year, Södra announced its investment in a new kraft lignin production site, reinforcing its dedication to advancing sustainable forest products. Through this supply agreement, Stora Enso and Södra aim to enhance the development of lignin as a sustainable non-fossil-based material, with broad applications across various industries.
“We are excited to partner with Södra in this important endeavor,” says Juuso Konttinen, Senior Vice President & Head of Biomaterials Growth at Stora Enso. “This agreement not only secures one additional reliable supply of kraft lignin for our innovative products such as Lignode for batteries but also underscores the growing importance of lignin in creating sustainable solutions across industries. By leveraging our expertise in lignin technology, Södra will be able to produce high-quality lignin that aligns with our sustainability commitments.”
Lignin, a natural polymer found in all trees and plants and a product deriving from pulping process, is increasingly recognised for its potential as a key component in various bio-based solutions. Market demand for sustainable materials and solutions is driving rapid growth in lignin applications. The collaboration with Stora Enso allows Södra to integrate cutting-edge technology into its production processes, ensuring the high quality and consistency of the lignin produced.
“We believe that lignin has enormous potential as a bio-based material, and this agreement with Stora Enso highlights that potential,” says Johannes Bogren, Executive Vice President Södra Bioproducts at Södra. “By combining our expertise, Södra’s sustainable forest management with Stora Enso’s innovative technology, we are making a significant leap towards realizing lignin’s full potential in the global market.”