- 04 Mar 2026
On 4–5 March 2026, the INCITE project conducted a study visit to Sweden to explore advanced technologies and sustainable practices in the forest-based sector. The programme included visits to Holmen’s Braviken paper mill and Södra’s integrated pulp and wood production site in Mönsterås, providing valuable insights into innovative pathways towards a climate-neutral and resource-efficient industry.
The first day focused on Holmen’s Braviken mill, where participants gained an overview of thermomechanical pulping (TMP), energy efficiency measures, and developments in paper production. The visit highlighted industrial symbiosis, environmental performance, and customer-oriented flexibility. A guided tour of the facilities, including wastewater treatment and fibre recovery processes, offered a comprehensive understanding of the mill’s operations and its commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency.
On the second day, the delegation visited Södra’s Mönsterås site—one of the world’s most advanced integrated pulp mills. The site demonstrated how renewable forest raw materials are transformed into climate-smart products such as pulp, biomaterials, and bioenergy, reflecting a highly resource-efficient and circular industrial model.
Particular attention was given to Södra’s innovation projects. Participants explored the methanol recovery process, which enables the production of biomethanol from the kraft pulp process, contributing to the substitution of fossil-based chemicals. The delegation also learned about the development of a lignin recovery facility, which will further enhance biomass valorisation and support the production of sustainable bio-based materials.
The visit brought together representatives from industry, the European Commission, research organisations, and national competent authorities. Notably, authorities from the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency and the German Environment Agency participated in the discussions, alongside representatives from CEPI (the Confederation of European Paper Industries). These exchanges provided valuable perspectives on environmental performance, regulatory frameworks, and the implementation of best available techniques.
INCITE warmly thanks Swedish Forest Industries for organising this insightful visit and facilitating a constructive dialogue among key stakeholders committed to advancing Europe’s green and competitive industrial transformation.