VTT performs bioeconomy and cleantech research at Bioruukki
VTT has built a piloting centre aimed at refining biomass at Kivenlahti, Espoo, which serves as a crucial hub for innovation in sustainable energy solutions. This modern facility is designed to support the research and development of new processes that enhance biomass utilization, facilitating the transition towards a greener economy. Bioruukki, the center’s operational arm, offers companies a world-class platform for new technology development and realization of the national Bio economy strategy, fostering collaboration among researchers, businesses, and policymakers. By providing access to cutting-edge infrastructure and expertise, Bioruukki aims to accelerate the commercialization of innovative bio-based products and services, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future for Finland and beyond.
It operates in an area of technology that is important to Finland: bioenergy, which plays a crucial role in the country’s commitment to sustainable development. This innovative field harnesses renewable resources, such as plant matter and organic waste, to produce energy in forms that significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As Finland invests in bioenergy solutions, the nation aims to diversify its energy sources and enhance energy security, thereby contributing to a cleaner environment and promoting green technology initiatives that can serve as a model for other countries.
Biomass
Utilization of biomass to make valuable products is a transformative process that holds immense potential in today’s eco-conscious world. By harnessing organic materials, we can create biochemicals that serve various industrial applications, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and promoting sustainability. Furthermore, recycling biomass not only helps in waste management but also in generating renewable resources, thereby supporting a circular economy. This innovative approach not only contributes to environmental conservation but also opens up pathways for economic growth and development in green technologies.
This is one of VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd’s most significant investments this decade, marking a pivotal moment in the advancement of bio-economy research. For that’s the largest bio-economy research facility in Nordic countries, designed to foster innovation and collaboration across various sectors. It also serves the needs of process and product development operations, equipped with cutting-edge technology and expertise. Especially of companies and projects implemented by VTT and its research partners, this facility plays a crucial role in facilitating sustainable practices and developing new solutions to contemporary challenges, thereby contributing to the region’s economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Bioruukki combines VTT expertise in chemistry, energy and biomass processing.
It provides the opportunity to study which biorefinery concepts and ideas are both technically and economically feasible, fostering a deeper understanding of sustainable practices in the industry. This applies particularly to the development of production methods for biofuels and valuable chemicals, which are increasingly important in the global push towards renewable energy sources and must be optimized for both efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Bioruukki also speeds up the launching of innovations made by Finnish companies to world markets, facilitating collaborations and partnerships that can lead to groundbreaking advancements. Espoo offers a good location for operations, not only due to its strategic geographical position, but also because there is a close community of specialists from companies and research institutes nearby, creating an environment ripe for knowledge exchange, innovation, and the acceleration of research and development initiatives that can have a significant impact on the industry as a whole.
Bioeconomy
Through Bioruukki, VTT can make available its entire research volume for bioeconomy and circular economy. This significant endeavor amounts to more than EUR 60 million. It also encompasses nearly 500 man-years annually dedicated to innovative research and development. Over the next few years, Bioruukki is estimated to employ some 40 researchers. For they will collaborate across various disciplines to tackle pressing challenges in sustainable development.
In addition, the center aims to foster partnerships with industries and academic institutions. For they are enhancing the knowledge transfer and practical applications of bioeconomic principles. With a strong focus on sustainability and ecological responsibility. Because Bioruukki aspires to lead transformative changes. Changes that will not only benefit the local economy but also contribute to global environmental goals.
So far, VTT has invested EUR 10 million in Bioruukki. It’s a pioneering project focused on advanced bioprocessing technologies. In addition, the planned further measures are estimated to be between EUR 10–15 million.
In the first phase, Bioruukki will launch gasification and pyrolysis piloting operations. Those which are essential for converting biomass into valuable energy and chemical resources. These innovative processes aim to optimize resource utilization and reduce environmental impact. Furthermore, this installation of other pilot equipment is expansive. For starters, it’s an 8,000 square metre Bioruukki facility. This installation is being carried out in the next two years. That’s definitely enabling the project to step up its capabilities and scale significantly. This timeline is crucial for achieving the ambitious goals set forth for the project. Especially which includes the development of sustainable solutions for future energy needs.
Boldness and speed to development work
“Bioeconomy based on sustainable use of renewable resources is a worldwide trend that is gaining momentum across various sectors. Finland is in good positions to benefit from such growth, given its rich natural resources and innovative spirit. Bioruukki, as a leading initiative in this field, has an important national mission to develop new forest-based bioeconomy technologies. In addition, they are to speed up their commercialisation in collaboration with companies. That’s also fostering partnerships that enhance research and development. This will not only create new jobs but also contribute to a greener economy and a sustainable future. Essentially for generations to come,” says Petri Peltonen. Petri is the Director General of the Department of Enterprise and Innovation at the Ministry of Employment and the Economy.
High Tech
Finland needs more high-tech investments. It requires new competence- and knowledge-intensive companies and the jobs they generate. No new business activities or growth occur without concrete demonstrations. VTT provides the investment. This investment targets the growth and development corridor of the West Metro region. It exemplifies the action needed now. The City of Espoo commits to creating conditions for growth and the emergence of high-competence jobs”. This was said by Jukka Mäkelä, Mayor of Espoo.
Finland aims to double the value of bioeconomy by 2025
In Finland, the bioeconomy contributes 10% to the national economy. This reflects the country’s commitment to sustainable practices. It includes agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and renewable energy. These sectors reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The goal is to double this value by 2025. This target aligns with the global push for greener economies and innovative technologies. Strategic investments support this ambitious aim. Research and development policies encourage the use of renewable resources. They drive economic growth and create new job opportunities. This strengthens Finland’s leadership in bioeconomy initiatives globally.
Both Finland and Europe now focus on building bioeconomy ecosystems. They have developed life-cycle approaches. VTT offers comprehensive research and development services for sustainable development. These services apply interdisciplinarily to areas like green data technology and complete waste recycling.
Industrial sectors approach each other
A fifth of Finnish exports consist of mass products of the forestry industry. In the future, the reforming forest and chemical industries and related engineering will serve as drivers of export trade. The energy and food industries and agriculture will also rise by the side of the forestry industry. All which are the main driving forces of the bioeconomy.
Finland is a country with rich natural resources. It’s also got a sensible and efficient use of biomass and forest biomass in particular is the key to success. Companies can gain a footing on the world markets only by increasing their value added. It is also a question of how we will adjust to the challenges brought on by climate change.
