In Sweden, Finnfoam AB, a subsidary of Finland-headed Finnfoam Oy, a leading manufacturer of plastics-based thermal insulation solutions, has taken another step toward reducing its climate footprint by switching from fossil heating oil to wood pellets at its expanded polystyrene (EPS) production facilities in Kristinehamn and Markaryd.
The switch is part of Finnfoam’s long-term strategy to reduce climate impact and strengthen its contribution to a sustainable future.
Focus on energy efficiency
In addition to changing the energy source, Finnfoam has also carried out an extensive energy efficiency project at its facility in Kristinehamn.
This initiative is part of its strategy to maximize resource efficiency and minimize energy consumption by implementing modern systems to optimize energy use and reduce excess energy consumption in the manufacturing processes.
By switching to pellets and at the same time making production more energy efficient, we are taking a significant step towards more sustainable production. We work continuously to integrate environmental perspectives throughout our operations and this is a concrete example of how we realize our sustainability goals, said Tom Pie, CEO at Finnfoam.
Reduced climate footprint and cost savings
The transition from fossil heating oil to wood pellets means that Finnfoam is reducing its oil consumption by around 1.5 million liters per annum.
This leads to a significant reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, which is essential to meet the increased demands for sustainability and energy efficiency in industry.
Finnfoam expects that this will have a tangible positive impact on both the climate and the long-term sustainability of its business.
Decisive investment support
Finnfoam has invested a total of SEK 30 million (≈ EUR 2.62 million) in these three projects, of which 50 percent of the costs have been financed through the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency’s “Climate Step” (Klimatklivet), a government subsidy program that aims to help companies and organizations make climate-friendly investments that lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The support from Klimatklivet has been decisive in that we have been able to implement these measures quickly and efficiently. It makes it possible for us to further strengthen our sustainable production and at the same time contribute to Sweden’s national climate goals, added Magnus Karlsson, Production Manager for Finnfoam in Kristinehamn, who served as project manager for the projects.
According to Finnfoam, EPS production, and sustainability go hand in hand as EPS, which is one of the most widely used insulation products in the construction industry, is known for its excellent insulating properties and low weight.
With its investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency, Finnfoam’s Swedish EPS production has become even more sustainable providing a product that is not only high-performing but also manufactured with minimal environmental impact.