A new low-cost process enables small-scale producers to transform agricultural residues into high-quality pulp and lignin. Unlike the traditional Kraft method, which requires high capital investment, this innovation uses mild alkaline and enzymatic treatments, making it accessible to decentralised units close to the biomass source. This significantly reduces transport costs and emissions while generating added value locally.
The process preserves the quality of the cellulose and hemicellulose fractions and yields a cleaner lignin stream, with potential for applications in adhesives, composites, and energy. Farmers and cooperatives can avoid burning residues and instead create new revenue streams from bio-based materials.
By lowering the entry barrier for pulp production, this approach supports rural entrepreneurship, improves resource efficiency, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. It opens the path for scalable and sustainable biomass valorisation strategies in agriculture and food chains.
For farmers and biomass producers interested in learning more, see the dedicated For Farmers & Biomass Producers page on the Bio-LUSH website.
Author: Vinicius Lobosco, Product Development Specialist, PaperPlat AB
This practice abstract is part of the Bio-LUSH project, funded by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) under the European Union's Horizon Europe research and innovation programme (Grant Agreement No 101112476).
