From Side Stream to Mainstream: Boreal Bioproducts’ story
Selected by SITRA as one of the top 30 circular companies in Europe tackling biodiversity loss, Boreal Bioproducts has, since their launch in 2018, established themselves as a pioneer in the biorefinery industry. Their innovative extraction technology makes them a valuable partner in “From Dust to Value,” an R&D project in the SHAPE Ecosystem, aiming to uncover the high-value production potential of wood dust and other previously overlooked wood side streams.
Although the process might seem complex for those lacking a background in biomass chemistry, Development Director Ann-Sofie Fonsen uses a practical comparison to describe what they are specializing in at Boreal Bioproducts.
"We use pressurized hot water extraction to extract components from biomass. Think of it as a large espresso machine, where pressure and hot water are used to extract the coffee flavor”, Ann-Sofie Fonsen explains.
The end product can be used in several settings, such as in cosmetics, coatings, binders, adhesives, paint, or packaging applications. With a firm belief in their extraction capabilities, Boreal Bioproducts are now exploring additional applications for their product through the From Dust to Value project.
What distinguishes Boreal Bioproducts from the rest is their commitment to sustainable extraction processes, rooted in extensive academic research. The production process does not include any chemical solvents, and raw materials are acquired from existing industrial sidestreams from sawmills, resulting in a bio-based end product.
Replacing fossil raw materials and enhancing circularity is a crucial part of working towards a more sustainable future. By using sawdust, a residual product of the timber industry, they underscore the potential for creating value while minimizing environmental impact.
"Although biomass is renewable, it’s not infinite. Therefore, it’s important to utilize what’s available as efficiently as possible”
Regarding their involvement in From Dust to Value, Ann-Sofie Fonsen explains how it all started around discussions regarding utilizing sanding dust with Mirka and whether it would be possible to extract components from it.
"We have the technological knowledge for it. Even though we mostly focus on spruce sawdust, we are exploring new materials and what components can be extracted."
Moreover, their engagement with the ecosystem fosters valuable networking opportunities.
"The network is very important, especially for smaller players like us."
At the end of the project, Fonsen envisions how the project will have enabled them to find new applications. However, Ann-Sofie Fonsen acknowledges the challenges posed by market dynamics, where the circular economy is yet to attain mainstream acceptance.
"It's very difficult to be on the same level as the fossil industry, which is very efficient. Usually, there's a price difference."
She underscores the importance of financial support, emphasizing the role of entities like Business Finland and the EU in fostering sustainable ventures. Additionally, being part of the From Dust to Value consortium with like-minded individuals fuels their passion.
"It's inspiring to be part of a consortium with colleagues and partners who are as passionate working on this.”