Construction of UPM’s biorefinery in Leuna, Germany is progressing at a steady pace, with over a thousand builders from different parts of Europe working tirelessly to ensure the facility is completed by the end of the year. The biorefinery will process half a million cubic meters of German beech into raw material for plastic drinking bottles and Lego blocks.
The facility’s wood processing capabilities are already being tested, with hundreds of cubic beech logs transported to the wood yard for that purpose. While the process is different from traditional paper production, the biorefinery will produce a range of sustainable materials that can be used in various industries, including construction and packaging.
UPM’s biorefinery is part of a larger effort to transition towards a circular economy, where waste is minimized and resources are used more efficiently. The use of renewable materials like beech wood is a crucial step towards achieving this goal, as it reduces our reliance on fossil fuels and helps to mitigate the effects of climate change.
In addition to producing sustainable materials, the biorefinery will also generate renewable energy. The facility will use waste wood to produce electricity and heat, which will be used to power the biorefinery and supply the surrounding area with energy.
The biorefinery is just one example of the growing trend towards sustainable production and consumption. As consumers become more aware of the impact their choices have on the environment, companies are under increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices.
UPM’s biorefinery is a step in the right direction, but there is still much work to be done. As we continue to move towards a more circular economy, it is important that we prioritize the use of renewable materials and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. By doing so, we can create a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
