Gunilla Kihl, environmental engineer at Domsjö
A former pulp mill, in 2002 Domsjö became Sweden’s first working bio-refinery and also hosts a large biogas facility, although its major production is speciality cellulose as a substitute for cotton and silk. Biofuels are produced through the gasification of black liquor, a natural by-product.
“Our main business is processing cellulose to make viscose fibre for the textile industry,” Gunilla explains. “We also produce lignin, which when dried makes cement manufacturing more eco-friendly by reducing water, bioethanol and biogas consumption. Many people are surprised at all the different ways you can use a natural raw product such as wood.”
Gunilla praises the foresight of the investors who saw potential when the factory was threatened by closure in the late 1990s. “Today there are more than 30 companies here, and together we’re developing tomorrow’s bio-refineries using the expertise from Sweden’s chemical and forestry industry.”
The venture to produce viscose fibre from cellulose became a real success story. New Indian owners bought the factory in 2011 and are aiming to make Domsjö the world’s largest producer of clothing made from natural wood fibre instead of cotton, which has a negative environmental impact.
“I’ve always wanted to work here,” Gunilla says. Her wish came true when she gained her environmental engineering diploma. Today, she’s in charge of the production process and of ensuring the bio-refinery meets environmental standards.
■ Investments in black liquor gasification for electricity or fuel production have enabled Sweden to reduce national CO2 emissions by 10% and provide road vehicles with 45 billion litres of biofuel.
■ Forests are a key resource for developing sustainable cities in Sweden. The country has invested heavily in district heating and biofuel-fed combined heat and power (CHP) systems with high electricity yields.
■ Biofuel has become Sweden’s most important energy source, accounting for 32% of national energy usage, compared to 29% for oil-based fuel, according to March 2010 statistics from Svebio, the Swedish Bioenergy Association.
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