# Bioruukki VTT : Revolutionizing Bioeconomy Research

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/03/bioruukki-vtt-revolutionizing-bioeconomy-research/
- Published: 2015-03-14T00:04:35-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## 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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/02/finland-testing-all-electric-buses-with-vtt/):
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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/03/3-reasons-why-you-should-consider-buying-solar-panels/).
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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/04/new-technologies-that-help-the-environment/)
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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/04/comparing-the-sustainability-of-different-types-of-energy/).
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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2017/12/making-green-happen-through-economics-of-sustainability/)
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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/08/charge-ev-home-4-things-to-know-about-installing/)
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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/04/energy-platform-connects-small-solar-farms-with-buyers/)
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.

![Researchers working in a lab at bioruukki vtt&aposs bioeconomy and cleantech research
center with sunlight streaming through large windows](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.
com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/image-10-400x300.png?resize=400%2C300&ssl=1 "image-
The Green Living Guy")

Researchers at VTTs Bioruukki piloting center in Espoo work on bioeconomy technologies
fostering innovation in renewable resource utilization

#### **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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2018/11/environmentally-friendly-and-responsible-travel-tips/).

### 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](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/07/promising-careers-in-the-energy-industry/)
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.

[Source: VTT](https://www.vttresearch.com/en)

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
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