Metsä Group evaluates feasibility of carbon capture at pulp mills
Metsä Group is testing methods to capture carbon dioxide from pulp mill flue gases to repurpose the emissions into bio-based raw materials.
Metsä Group is exploring the technical and economic viability of capturing carbon dioxide generated by its pulp mills. The initiative aims to convert mill side streams into raw materials that can replace fossil-based inputs, aligning with broader climate goals.
A joint survey conducted with technology partner Andritz analyzed the potential to capture four million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually from a facility similar to the Kemi bioproduct mill. According to project director Kaija Pehu-Lehtonen, the study confirmed the technical possibility of full-scale capture but noted significant hurdles regarding energy efficiency and costs. Currently, only 20 percent of the required thermal energy can be sourced from existing mill flows, necessitating further technological development before commercial viability is achieved.
The group is now moving toward a pilot phase, scheduled for next summer at the Rauma pulp mill in collaboration with Andritz. Insights from this trial will determine the direction for a potential demonstration plant. If successful, the project could introduce a new industrial revenue stream for the forest sector while providing a scalable solution for carbon management.