AFRY's decarbonisation approach for pulp & paper mills
How can pulp and paper mills reduce greenhouse gas emissions and embrace sustainable practices?
The pulp and paper industry faces significant challenges globally in reducing greenhouse gas emissions due to its reliance on fossil fuels and energy-intensive processes. New modern mills are typically designed to be fossil-free, and in the Nordics, many existing mills aim at fossil-free production. However, globally there are a large number of pulp and paper mills that depend on fossil fuels. This article explores AFRY's comprehensive decarbonisation strategy for pulp and paper mills, highlighting the steps taken, the results achieved, and the lessons learned.
The challenge of decarbonisation
The pulp and paper industry is still a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions globally, primarily due to its energy-intensive processes and reliance on fossil fuels. The challenge is to identify and implement effective measures to reduce these emissions while maintaining operational efficiency and profitability. This requires a thorough understanding of the industry's unique characteristics, including the types of emissions generated in mills, the sources of these emissions, and the potential for emission reductions through various measures.
Implementation of decarbonisation measures - AFRY's approach
AFRY's approach to decarbonisation for the pulp and paper client involves a phased strategy, starting with a general overview of potential emission reduction measures and progressing to detailed analysis and implementation. Phase 1 includes a general overview of potential measures for GHG emission reduction, and Phase 2 includes a detailed analysis of selected measures.
The initial phase (Phase 1) focuses on identifying potential measures, including energy efficiency improvements, new technologies, and alternative fuels. This phase also involves a rough energy balance overview and brainstorming of initial measures, resulting in a proposal for the next phase.
In the second (Phase 2), AFRY conducts a detailed analysis of the selected measures. This phase can, for example, involve a larger team of experts who collect extensive data, analyse each department's energy consumption, visit the site and identify specific measures to reduce emissions. The measures can include optimising steam and condensate systems, balancing power and heat production, improving process systems, and replacing outdated equipment with modern, energy-efficient alternatives.
In conclusion, the journey towards decarbonisation in the pulp and paper industry is challenging but achievable with the right approach and expertise. AFRY's phased strategy, combined with its technical knowledge and collaborative approach, provides a roadmap for other companies in the industry to follow. As the world continues to grapple with climate change, the importance of such initiatives cannot be overstated. By taking proactive steps towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the pulp and paper industry can contribute to a more sustainable future, while reaping the benefits of improved operational efficiency and cost savings.
Success factors in the decarbonisation journey
AFRY's approach to decarbonisation can be attributed to several success factors. First, the stepwise approach allows the client to make incremental investments and influence the project's direction based on initial results. Second, AFRY's highly experienced team brings extensive knowledge of, for example, energy balances and process optimisation, ensuring that the proposed measures were both effective and feasible. Third, the open and transparent approach with the client's mill teams fosters collaboration and ensures there are no surprises in the final results.
AFRY's ability to combine technical expertise with a deep understanding of sustainability challenges makes it uniquely positioned to help clients in the pulp and paper mills achieve their decarbonisation goals. This approach can also be used for energy efficiency and water management studies. By providing high-quality, data-driven solutions and maintaining regular contact with clients, AFRY builds trust and delivers results that exceed expectations.
