Biomaterials

Since a new tree can be grown where a mature tree has been harvested, wood is an ideal natural resource for biomaterials. This biomass cycle continually sequesters carbon dioxide.

Traditionally the papermaking process has only used approximately half of the raw wood material to manufacture pulp and paper products. The balance of the raw material is used to generate energy to power the mill or to sell into the electricity grid. Sappi is, however, developing new processes and biomaterials which extract more value from each tree and supports our business strategy to move into new and adjacent markets.

Sappi’s innovative technology enables us to derive specialty chemicals and food ingredients from the parts of the tree which are not used for papermaking. These high-performance products often displace non-sustainable oil-based alternatives.

Valida

Sappi Valida nanocellulose responds to a critical need to replace undesirable products, used to impart performance characteristics such as reinforcement and stabilisation, with sustainable natural ingredients. Valida is compatible with a diverse range of applications such as cosmetics, coatings, agriculture and construction materials.

​Lignin - a renewable natural polymer

Lignin is a major component of wood and is one of the most abundant natural organic wood polymers which provides a multitude of functionalities.

Furfural

Furfural is an important biobased platform chemical which is used in a wide variety of industrial applications including foundry resins, solvents and crop protection products.

Sweeteners

The hemicellulose co-product of our Verve specialty cellulose operations can be used to produce xylose.
Our woodfibre is harvested from our sustainably managed commercial plantations 100% certified by internationally recognised independent authorities. The balance is bought from trusted sources. We endeavour to ensure that an increasing proportion this bought in woodfibre complies with the same strict standards thereby ensuring that both the products we produce and the raw material we use, respects the environment. No woodfibre is sourced from ancient or endangered forests.

Related content

Sustainability in Sappi group

The principles of responsible corporate citizenship underpin our business decisions, strategies and processes and are incorporated into our everyday operations.

Research and development

Technology is at the heart of our business – discover how we’re making breakthroughs and discoveries that enrich lives.
Lignin application areas

Our lignin is used in a variety of industrial and agricultural areas for various applications.

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