Canada invests in International Paper project to boost crude tall oil and other coproducts

In Canada, Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources, announced funding of over C$3.6 million to International Paper Company, in collaboration with Via Separations Inc., for the implementation of a first-of-its-kind filtration technology aimed at reducing the energy intensity and carbon emissions associated with the kraft pulping process. The project is funded through the Investments in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT) program, which aims to create a more competitive and resilient forest sector focusing on low-carbon projects that result in new or diversified revenue streams.

After successful pilot demonstrations of the technology, International Paper will be the first manufacturer to deploy Via’s Black Liquor Concentration System at commercial scale. The project will help minimize the mill’s carbon emissions, improve throughput and increase the production of valuable coproducts like converting the black liquor soap into crude tall oil, which can be used in several applications, including as a potential biofuel for transportation.