What's Happening?
OutNature, a company based in Germany, is advancing sustainable packaging production by converting agricultural residues into pulp using straw fiber. The company has partnered with Valmet to deliver pretreatment
and automation systems for this innovative process. The BioTrac system, a pretreatment technology, will process lignocellulosic raw materials like straw into high-quality fibers suitable for papermaking. The new straw fiber plant will be installed at the LEIPA paper mill in Schwedt/Oder, which currently processes over one million tonnes of wastepaper annually. LEIPA plans to combine straw fibers with wastepaper to produce various types of paper for packaging and graphic applications. The plant, utilizing Valmet’s continuous steam treatment technology, is expected to start operations by the end of 2026.
Why It's Important?
This development is significant as it represents a shift towards more sustainable raw material sourcing in the paper industry. By using straw, a by-product of agricultural grain processing, OutNature is reducing the need for virgin wood fibers, thereby conserving forest resources. The use of locally sourced straw also minimizes transportation emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability. This initiative supports the circular economy by utilizing agricultural by-products, benefiting farmers and promoting renewable material circularity. The project aligns with the sustainability strategy of the Schwarz Group, enhancing the social and environmental benefits of packaging production.
What's Next?
The new fiber production facility is part of a two-stage investment project aimed at promoting sustainable papermaking with a reduced carbon footprint. As the plant becomes operational, it is expected to set a precedent for similar initiatives in the industry, encouraging other companies to explore alternative raw materials for paper production. The collaboration between OutNature and Valmet may lead to further technological advancements in biomass pretreatment, potentially expanding the application of straw fibers in other sectors.
Beyond the Headlines
The use of straw fibers in paper production could have long-term implications for the industry, potentially leading to a decrease in reliance on wood-based fibers and fostering innovation in sustainable materials. This project highlights the importance of integrating agricultural by-products into industrial processes, which could inspire similar approaches in other sectors, promoting a broader adoption of circular economy principles.
