New CO₂ Conversion Plant Transforms Emissions into Sustainable Plastics

In a significant leap towards sustainability, Finland's VTT Technical Research Centre and LUT University have inaugurated a cutting-edge CO₂ conversion pilot plant in Espoo. Housed in sea containers, this facility is pioneering the conversion of captured carbon dioxide emissions into plastic materials, offering an eco-friendly alternative to fossil-based raw materials.

The pilot plant is part of Finland's larger strategy to utilize technological carbon sinks in the fight against greenhouse gas emissions. By capturing biobased CO₂ emissions from industries such as the forest sector and waste incineration, the facility aims to foster more sustainable industrial practices within the country.

This innovative development stems from the Forest CUMP research project, a joint venture between VTT and LUT University, which has been investigating the potential of converting biobased CO₂ into widely-used plastics like polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). Traditionally produced from fossil fuels, these plastics can now be generated through more sustainable means, contributing to the green transition of the plastics industry.

The plant, located at the Bioruukki pilot centre, represents a practical realization of the Forest CUMP project's research objectives. Supported by the Business Finland Veturi ecosystem and major Finnish corporations like Borealis through its SPIRIT programme, this collaboration aims to accelerate sustainable development and support Finland's carbon neutrality goals.

Launched in August 2022, the Forest CUMP project is slated to run through 2024, paving the way for further advancements in CO₂ conversion technology and sustainable industry practices. This initiative is a crucial step towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting environmentally-friendly industrial solutions.