Nouryon, a global specialty chemicals company, says that five of its manufacturing sites are carbon neutral. The achievement reportedly reflects the company’s sustainability agenda, “Commitment to a Sustainable Future,” which includes targets to reduce operational greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 40% by 2030, versus a 2019 base year, as well as Nouryon’s aspiration to be a net-zero organization by 2050.
The five carbon neutral sites in Brazil operated by Nouryon (Imperatriz, Eunápolis, Três Lagoas (2) and Jacareí), are part of the company’s “Integrated Manufacturing Model,” offering on-location sodium chlorate and/or chlorine dioxide production. Modern pulp mills normally generate excess utilities (e.g., such as steam and water from the pulping process) that can be used as fuel in other manufacturing processes. Nouryon uses renewable energy from its customers sourced primarily from biomass, according to the company. Nouryon says the reused resources effectively lower the carbon footprint of the site while producing chemicals more efficiently. On-site production reduces transportation requirements.
The five sites have low Scope 1 GHG emissions and reported zero Scope 2 GHG emissions, which has been independently assured by ERM CVS, according to Nouryon. Remaining emissions reportedly are offset by the purchase of certified carbon offsets, created from renewable energy projects.
“Nouryon recognizes that this is an important step in our sustainability journey. We will continue to look for GHG emissions reduction opportunities throughout our operations, and in collaboration with customers, suppliers and partners as part of our longer-term commitments,” says Eduardo Nardinelli, senior vice president, South America and global carbon business leader, in a press release from the company. “Our plans include improving efficiency in our operations, optimizing our fuel mix, as well as increasing our use of renewable energy through power purchase agreements, on-site renewable projects, utility programs and renewable electricity certificates.”
Read the press release at: www.nouryon.com