Cost of removal and destruction of PFAS from wastewater effluent

“Based on our two decades of experience assisting clients with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) assessment, Barr was recently commissioned by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to evaluate currently available alternatives for PFAS removal and destruction from water resource recovery facility (WRRF) effluent, WRRF biosolids, mixed municipal solid waste landfill leachate, and compost contact water (waste streams). We engaged Hazen and Sawyer, a water, wastewater, and stormwater management firm, to analyze PFAS destruction in biosolids. The study includes estimated operations and maintenance (O&M) and capital cost curves related to these activities.

Our work also included development of a peer-reviewed journal manuscript titled “Is removal and destruction of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances from wastewater effluent affordable?” The research article was published in the January 2024 issue of Water Environment Research, an international multidisciplinary water resource management journal for the dissemination of fundamental and applied research in all scientific and technical areas related to water quality and resource recovery.”'

Quote from www.barr.com

Investment in top-ranked MSU School of Packaging will expand building, research

source: MSU School of packaging

“The Michigan State University Board of Trustees today voted to authorize the planning of a major expansion to the MSU School of Packaging. The $25 million investment will double the size of the building and significantly increase research capacity, creating space for more faculty and graduate students.

‘Positioning Spartans for continued innovation and leadership, this new expansion to the nation’s preeminent School of Packaging is another milestone for this storied program,’ said MSU Interim President Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D. ‘This addition signifies our commitment to research excellence and also underscores our dedication to staying at the forefront of industry trends and demands.’

Housed within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the MSU School of Packaging consistently earns top rankings in its field. It was established in 1952 and was the first school of packaging in the United States. Today, it is the largest packaging program in the country, with over 600 undergraduate and graduate students and 10,000 alumni worldwide. The school graduates 40% of all the packaging professionals in the U.S. alone, creating a basis for industry influence that outstrips any other packaging program.

‘This expansion will create world-renowned sustainability research spaces so that we can expand our faculty in this critical area,’ said Matthew Daum, MSU School of Packaging director and CANR assistant dean of corporate relations and strategy. ‘We are the only U.S. school that offers a Ph.D. program in packaging, so we’re particularly excited this addition will allow us to bring in more graduate students to meet industry demand.’

The School of Packaging completed a comprehensive renovation in April 2023, which created technology-first classrooms, collaboration spaces where industry partners can engage with students and new office space for graduate students and faculty. The renovations were supported by contributions from alumni and donors totaling over $10 million, including lead gifts from Amcor, Charles and Jackie Frasier and Ring Container Technologies.

The planned expansion is expected to break ground in 2025.”

Quote from msutoday.msu.edu

How wood is making a comeback in construction

Credit: Mark Draper, University of Utah

“We’ve been using wood to build things for a very long time. According to the recently discovered remains of a half-a-million-year-old wooden structure in Africa, we’ve been building with wood before we were even fully human. From those early beginnings to the stave churches of Scandinavia to Lincoln’s log cabin, wood as a construction material has been favored for its abundance, its workability and its beauty.

Yet in the past 150 years, as cities and skyscrapers have boomed, wood has been eclipsed by newer materials such as concrete and steel. These materials can support more weight, allowing for bigger buildings, and aren’t as susceptible to fire, earthquake and moisture damage. However, they cost more to produce, are not renewable and exact a heavy carbon footprint; steel and concrete production accounts for more than 10% of global emissions.

But talk to University of Utah engineering professor Chris Pantelides, and he’ll tell you that we shouldn’t accept the dominance of the steel-and-concrete jungle just yet. Thanks to the work of civil engineers like Pantelides, our oldest building material is experiencing a revival—one that can even withstand earthquakes.”

Quote from www.eurekalert.org

Cascades launches new line of recyclable corrugated cardboard produce baskets with flaps

“Cascades has launched a new produce basket design for the produce sector. Made from up to 100% recycled fibers, the new produce baskets with flaps offer produce growers a sustainable alternative to replace more hard-to-recycle packaging.

Designed according to recognized eco-design principles, these products are in keeping with a circular economy approach. By using recycled and recyclable corrugated cardboard in its design, Cascades is supporting its customers by reducing their environmental impact while meeting consumer demand for increasingly environmentally friendly packaging.

‘These new corrugated basket formats for fresh fruit and vegetables enhance our innovative product offering for the produce sector, while allowing us to continue to meet the highest standards of environmental responsibility,’ said Charles Malo, President and Chief Operating Officer, Cascades Containerboard Packaging.

Innovative packaging design prevents consumers from handling products and helps keep fruits and vegetables intact throughout the logistic chain. They include a closure system that prevents products from falling, without compromising visibility inside the packaging.

Available in two different models and four different sizes, from the new ½ dry quart snack size to the 1 L size, these baskets can be used to market a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, from berries to tomatoes and tree grown fruit.

In addition, the basket's multiple customization options offer a competitive advantage and will make produce brands stand out on the shelf with high-quality flexographic, lithographic and digital printing options.”

Quote from www.paperage.com

Pulp and paper mill receives provincial investment

“The Government of Ontario is investing more than $9.4 million in 14 research, innovation, and modernization initiatives to develop economic potential and environmental benefits of new and emerging uses of underutilized wood and mill by-products, collectively known as forest biomass.

Forest biomass is used in everything from food additives to building materials. It also has many emerging uses, including renewable natural gas, bioplastics, and hydrogen–responsible alternatives to carbon-intensive products.

The funding is coming through the second phase of funding under the new Forest Biomass Program.

‘Our Forest Biomass Program has delivered dozens of critical investments to launch the future of Ontario’s forest sector,’ said Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry Graydon Smith. ‘Today’s investment continues that progress, with targeted funding that will create jobs, strengthen communities, and redefine our forestry sector in Ontario.’

Of the $9.4 million investment, over half, or $5 million will be going to the Thunder Bay Pulp and Paper Mill. The mill will use the investment for upgraded and improved equipment to modernize the mill’s electrical system, enabling future measures to expand green energy production, reduce emissions, and increase forest biomass usage.”

Quote from www.ckdr.net

Wisconsin Paper Group marks 90 years of shipping excellence

WPG Original location - 1934

NEENAH WI Jan. 19, 2024: A Fox Valley-based shipper’s association has been helping its members realize a competitive advantage for 90 years and counting. In 1934, a group of 13 enterprising paper mill executives started the Wisconsin Paper Group to provide their paper companies with the best possible shipping services. Wisconsin Paper Group was the first not-for-profit shipping cooperative in the nation and remains the only shipper’s association of its kind nine decades later.

“By starting the Wisconsin Paper Group, the individual members of the association could guarantee faster and more frequent deliveries of their products at a lower cost,” said Tim Metten, President of Wisconsin Paper Group, 634 Muttart Road, Neenah. “Today, this cost-saving mindset benefits all members by keeping freight rates lower than individual companies could achieve on their own.”

Historical look at crossdocking (1950’s)

WPG’s full shipload of paper on maiden voyage of s.s. badger, 1953

To celebrate its 90th anniversary, WPG will host an event summer 2024, with the details published on the WPG LinkedIn and Facebook profiles.

The Wisconsin Paper Group, also known as The WPG Shippers Association, acts as an extension of their members’ logistics teams. Members tender orders for less-than-truckload and shared truckload shipments to WPG for consolidation into multi-stop or single-stop truckload deliveries.

“Every shipment is important to us, and we treat it as our own. Our passion is transportation,” Metten said.

WPG utilizes linehaul carriers and regional distributors to deliver freight throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. In addition to ground transportation, WPG also provides Air Freight services and warehousing services.

Originally, WPG handled paper. Through the years, WPG expanded its commodity base to include packaging, plastics, and other paper-related cargo. In 2000, WPG expanded further, handling fabricated metal, primary metal, lumber and wood, furniture and fixtures, nonperishable food and kindred products, machinery, and transportation equipment.

“While much has changed in manufacturing, transportation and logistics, the primary goal of our organization remains the same, even after 90 years. By using a cooperative approach, Members send as much volume as possible through our consolidation network to build more efficient loads, driving down costs,” Metten said.

WPG represents over 100 Wisconsin and Upper Michigan companies and welcomes new members to its association. Visit WPG.org to learn how members benefit from reduced transportation costs, improved service, less handling, logistic support and distribution management. Asset-based trucking companies are invited to discuss lane opportunities by emailing planning@wpg.org or calling 920-729-4343.

crossdocking and warehousing location today

Press release from Wisconsin Paper Group

New effort underway to capture institutional knowledge

Photo from newsroom.domtar.com

“According to Forbes magazine, each year 4 million baby boomers, the generation born between 1946 and 1964, leave the workforce, taking with them valuable institutional knowledge that future generations might miss out on.

At Domtar, we’re working to capture and transfer that institutional knowledge before it’s gone.

Since April, Manufacturing Knowledge Development Senior Director Larry Warren has worked with a steering team of operational leaders, both at corporate offices and manufacturing sites, to create an intentional operations training structure.

The aim is to ensure consistent operator training, development and institutional knowledge transfer across our manufacturing network as older employees retire and new ones take their place.

‘A lot of our organizational and institutional knowledge resides in the heads of our long-term employees,’ he said. ‘We don’t want to let that valuable information retire with them without passing it on to younger generations.’

Instead, Warren and the steering team are taking a two-pronged approach to capture what we already know and thoroughly document new processes and procedures as we learn them. The goal is for employees to be able to refer to them later.”

Quote from newsroom.domtar.com

Fox Cities Chamber celebrating 150 years

“The Fox Cities Chamber has officially kicked off its 150-year anniversary, with plans to celebrate all year long with its members and the business community.

‘We are beyond excited to be celebrating our sesquicentennial this year. This is a huge milestone for any organization, and especially for a local member-supported group like ours, started by Fox Cities businesses all those years ago,’ said Becky Bartoszek, president and CEO of the Fox Cities Chamber.

‘Our original 1874 charter outlines a focus of uniting the business community for greater economic impact, and that’s still a mission we share today. We serve as a collective voice for our members and convene the programs and services that help the community thrive.’

In August 1874, a group of Appleton business leaders first met at the Waverly House to consider creating a chamber of commerce for the city and officially organized the Appleton Chamber of Commerce the next month. A.L. Smith, mayor of the city and founder/president of First National Bank, was board president.

Although the original chamber had its ups and downs, it saw a huge resurgence when 16 business leaders met March 11, 1920 in The Sherman House to plan. The Appleton Chamber of Commerce was officially re-launched in the Appleton Elks Hall the next month, with 612 members signing up immediately.”

Quote from www.insightonbusiness.com

Aiming for emission-free pulping, forest industry and scientific community join forces

“The forest industry, technology companies, research organizations, and universities have joined forces to revolutionize the traditional pulping processes under the joint leadership of VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and RISE Research Institutes of Sweden. The Emission Free Pulping research program intends to find ways to improve energy efficiency, enhance the efficiency of wood usage and conversion to products, achieve emission-free pulping (especially carbon dioxide emissions), and significantly reduce water usage in the processes.

‘Due to the limited nature of forest resources, the growth opportunities for the industry are constrained. Moreover, the burning of biomass in the pulping process results in the emission of biogenic CO2. To significantly enhance resource efficiency and increase the value added from wood, revising the chemical processes and unit operations used in the pulping process is essential,’ says Atte Virtanen, Vice President of biomaterial processing and products at VTT.

So far, five industrial companies have committed to the program, and they will bring in their knowledge about industrial relevance and operations as well as financial contribution. ANDRITZ, Arauco, Metsä Group, Stora Enso, and Valmet have committed to a five-year collaboration with the research organizations and universities for this program. The program has been granted substantial funding from Business Finland, amounting to over 5 million euros over a three-year period.

‘Long-term research cooperation between companies, research organizations, and universities is essential for solving major sustainability challenges. With the financing of this joint project, we want to speed up the renewal of the forest industry, which is of paramount importance for Finland’s competitiveness,’ says Executive Director Timo Metsä-Tokila from Business Finland.”

Quote from www.papnews.com

This business park replaces a former We Energies plant. It just landed its first company

“A Pleasant Prairie business park that's replacing a decommissioned We Energies power plant has landed its first company.

Paper-based packaging maker WestRock Co. plans to build a corrugated converting facility at LogistiCenter, 8000 90th St. Construction is to begin in 2024.

The Sandy Springs, Georgia-based company isn't yet disclosing how many jobs will be based at the facility, which will be the first at LogistiCenter.

‘We’re confident that expanding our presence in an area of demand like the Great Lakes will enhance our ability to serve our customers in this important region,’ said David B. Sewell, chief executive officer, in a Tuesday announcement.

The Pleasant Prairie facility "is a win for Wisconsin and for our state’s paper industry,” said Missy Hughes, secretary and CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.

Reno, Nevada-based Dermody Properties in 2023 bought the site from We Energies and announced plans to develop three buildings, totaling 2.4 million square feet, at the business park.

Dermody is preparing the site for development with tax incremental financing help from Pleasant Prairie.

‘The village is excited about WestRock choosing Pleasant Prairie for their new industrial building on the former We Energies site,’ said Village Administrator Eric Rindfleisch.”

Quote from Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Gov. Evers celebrates more than $1 billion federal grant to replace Blatnik Bridge

The Wisconsin Paper Council is proud to have supported this bipartisan win. Read our letter of support here.

Press Release

Gov. Tony Evers celebrated the more than $1.05 billion federal grant jointly awarded to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) to replace the aging John A. Blatnik Bridge between Superior, Wisconsin, and Duluth, Minnesota. The funding is being awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highway Projects program (INFRA) as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“I have been glad to work closely with Sen. Baldwin and other state and federal partners to secure the necessary investments to replace the Blatnik Bridge here at the end of its service life, and I’m proud to be able to say today that our hard work has paid off,” said Gov. Evers. “We’re excited to celebrate this award today and what it means for our state, our workforce and economy, and the quality of life in Northern Wisconsin. I want to thank Sen. Baldwin and Gov. Walz for their partnership in championing this project to get this done for our states, and I look forward to our continued work together toward ensuring our infrastructure is built to meet the needs of a 21st-century workforce and economy.”

Built in 1961, the Blatnik Bridge has served as an essential link between Superior and Duluth via Interstate 535 and US 53. Jointly owned and operated by WisDOT and MnDOT, the important freight and commercial connector reached the end of its service life. The bridge has been load-posted for 40 tons since 2019 and can no longer carry overweight freight loads.

More than 33,000 vehicles cross the bridge each day, including commuters and visitors. Each year, more than 265,000 trucks transporting nearly $4 billion in goods pass over the Blatnik Bridge. Many businesses across the upper Midwest rely on the bridge to reach the Port of Duluth-Superior, the largest U.S. port on the Great Lakes. The bridge is also one of the largest marine links for U.S. trade with Canada, the top trade partner of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and the United States.

“This is what delivering for Wisconsin looks like. I voted for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to bring federal resources back to Wisconsin, and now we are seeing the results pay off. I have been pushing the Biden Administration at every turn to fund this project because a new Blatnik Bridge is critical for Wisconsin’s economy, safety, and way of life,” said U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin). “With this investment, we can ensure that billions of dollars’ worth of products can get to market efficiently, families can get to work on time, and millions of travelers get to their destinations safely.”

Wisconsin and Minnesota each committed $400 million in program funding toward the project. In 2023, Gov. Evers signed the 2023-25 biennial budget, which authorized $47.2 million in funding and $352.8 million in transportation fund-supported, general obligation bonding authority to secure sufficient state support for the project. Additionally, thanks to the efforts of U.S. Sen. Baldwin, the federal omnibus spending bill for Fiscal Year 2023 signed by President Biden included more than $255 million to support dozens of projects throughout Wisconsin, including $7.5 million for the Blatnik Bridge. The INFRA grant application was jointly submitted by both states in August 2023. The $1.05 billion grant equals the amount of federal funding needed to move the estimated $1.8 billion project forward.

“This is big news for Minnesota. This investment will make it possible for Minnesota and Wisconsin to rebuild a critical connection between our states that will foster regional economic growth, strengthen our national supply chains, and improve the safety and reliability of our transportation network,” said Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. “This is a project that will serve hundreds of communities between our states. I am grateful for the partnership of Gov. Evers, our Congressional leaders, and the White House in making this project happen.”

“Our commitment to improving safety and the long-term sustainability of our bridges is unwavering,” said WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson. “This was a team effort—from local communities and elected officials in both states—and we will act with urgency to deliver this important project.”

“Replacing this bridge is a top priority,” said MnDOT Commissioner Nancy Daubenberger. “MnDOT is grateful to our federal partners for the funds needed to get this project done. We look forward to working with WisDOT to build the modern and reliable Blatnik Bridge that the Twin Ports deserve.”

Design work for the project, which will determine specifications and shape the final project, is anticipated to begin in 2024. Once a final design is selected, construction could begin as early as 2025.

Press release from The Office of the Governor | State of Wisconsin

Sustana advances as a clean materials company

In a strategic move to streamline its operations and enhance its commitment to sustainability, Sustana proudly announces the rebranding of its subsidiary companies, including Sustana Fiber, Rolland, and Hanna Paper, under the united Sustana umbrella.

Fabian de Armas, Chairman and CEO of Sustana, expressed his enthusiasm for the rebrand, stating, “This strategic move marks a significant milestone in our journey toward a more circular and nature-positive future. By uniting our business units under the Sustana brand, we are creating a stronger, more united company around our shared purpose – to make sustainability an ingredient in everyday products.”

Aaron Ling, Director of Sustainability at Sustana, highlighted the company’s ambition to drive the clean materials and methods movement forward. “A more sustainable future isn’t possible unless materials adopt more eco-friendly practices. Sustana’s mission is to develop sustainable solutions with clean materials and a circular mindset. Through innovation and collaboration, we can show that it’s possible to produce high-quality, fiber-based materials while minimizing waste, preserving natural resources, and protecting biodiversity.”

De Armas emphasized how the rebrand positions Sustana as the premier provider of holistic, sustainable fiber-based solutions and services. “From waste prevention to sourcing alternative fiber to paper production, we embrace a circular mindset at every step. We believe this will draw and invite prospects and partners who are committed to delivering a more sustainable future. It’s about creating a shared vision that aligns us toward a common goal.”

Ling added, “This rebrand is about inspiring action. Sustana doesn’t just promote sustainability; we practice it. We apply that principle to every point in the sustainability journey – from day-to-day operations to strategic direction setting. This move is a testament to our commitment to creating positive change in the industry and beyond.”

Renee Yardley, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Sustana, emphasized how this rebrand signifies a new chapter for the company, reinforcing its dedication to sustainability and innovation, “This rebrand allows Sustana to deliver on customers’ needs every step of the way from sourcing clean materials, to producing finished goods to recycling, positioning our brand as a complete solution.”

Press release from sustanasolutions.com

Opening soon: International Market Access Grant application period

Companies that export are more innovative and have greater insulation from economic downturns, since their revenues don’t depend entirely on economic conditions in a single market. Exporting helps companies grow faster, offer higher wages, improve their labor pool, and ultimately increase valuation.

By taking advantage of the exporting resources WEDC offers, you can help your company access these benefits—or expand these benefits if your company is already exporting. I hope you will consider applying for our next round of International Market Access Grant funding when applications open on Feb. 1. For the first time, WEDC is conducting a midyear application process—the final opportunity to apply for 2024 grant funding through this program. We hope you will participate in this exciting opportunity to leverage program funds to maximize your company’s export growth.

Your company can use the grant funds to cover export growth expenses including:

• Trade show attendance

• Marketing and promotion

• Export education

• Consulting services

To apply, a company must be operating in Wisconsin, and must have been doing so for at least one year prior to applying. The company’s annual revenue must not exceed $100 million. Companies are eligible to apply if they manufacture, process, assemble, or distribute a product or service with the potential to be exported. Grants are available to companies that are new to exporting as well as those with previous export experience. Wisconsin cost inputs must make up at least 35% of the value of the product or service being exported. Companies that have completed the ExporTech™ Program can apply for up to $25,000 in grant funding; companies that have not completed ExporTech can apply for up to $10,000.

Please note that our application deadline has changed. All applications must be submitted through the Network Wisconsin portal by March 15, 2024, to be considered.
 
To prepare for the application window, you can begin assembling evidence of your company’s plans for targeted export development. Specifically, the reviewers will be looking for a declared focus on a single country or small group of countries—with clear reasoning for selecting this target market—and thoughtfully chosen activities for strategic export growth in the market.

View the full application criteria and contact Global Trade and Investment Grant Manager Katie Ujdak to get started today.

Information from wedc.org

To keep or not to keep: The fate of scope 3 emissions in SEC’s climate disclosure rule

“Given all of the pushback the agency has received over its proposed rule, particularly scope 3 reporting requirements, experts are uncertain if scope 3 will make the final cut.

When the Securities and Exchange Commission released its climate disclosure proposal in March 2022 mandating that companies describe their levels of greenhouse gas emissions and strategy toward reducing climate risk on their Form 10-K, the announcement was met with much criticism from some Republican lawmakers, industry organizations and dozens of state attorney generals.

The common denominator driving most of these complaints: a requirement for companies to disclose their scope 3 emissions — emissions that are not directly produced by the company itself or assets owned or controlled by the company, but by entities that are part of the company’s value or supply chain, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Even though corporations may not directly produce these emissions, scope 3 emissions often represent the majority of their total greenhouse gas emissions.

Since unveiling its climate disclosure rule, the SEC received over 16,000 public comments to the proposed rule, causing the agency to repeatedly postpone its release date, most recently missing an expected October release, as it reviewed these comments.

Last month, the agency revealed it plans to finalize the long-awaited rule in April 2024, but provided no further insight into what the ultimate version of this rule would entail, and whether it would include any amendments to scope 3 disclosure requirements.

Given all of the backlash, experts and some corporations doubt the requirements will make the final cut at this point.”

Quote from www.esgdive.com

Cascades continues to rank among the top 100 most sustainable companies in the world and is first in its industry

Cascades Inc. (TSX: CAS), a leader in the recovery and manufacturing of environmentally friendly packaging and hygiene products, is proud to announce that for the fifth consecutive year, it has been ranked as one of the world's 100 most sustainable corporations by Corporate Knights, a media, research and financial information company. Ranking 38th globally, Cascades has maintained it's leading industry position, being named first amongst organizations in the Containers and Packaging sector. This recognition highlights the exceptional work of companies such as Cascades that have combined environmental, social and governance considerations with business success.

The analysis used to determine the ranking is based on a methodology that is reviewed annually and takes into account 25 performance indicators. A total of 6,733 companies across the globe with annual revenues exceeding one billion dollars were evaluated in the most recent exercise.

An expertise built on 60 years of experience in the circular economy combined with our distinctive environmental and social practices allowed the company to perform on several levels. Of all the results assessed, Cascades stands out thanks to its high percentage of sustainable revenue attributable to products made from recycled or certified fibres; its high percentage of sustainable investments, namely capital investment expenditures and R&D investments; as well as governance elements such as gender diversity on the Board of Directors and executive compensation tied to the achievement of sustainability objectives.

"We are pleased to start our 60th anniversary year with this recognition. Looking back over the last six decades, we celebrate the rich legacy of our founders, the Lemaire brothers, who inspired a vision and approach that set us apart environmentally and socially. Every day, our business decisions and our teams embody these core values of respect for natural and human resources, which we uphold through our decisions and actions. We have built our reputation on these values that we can be proud of. I would like to thank our teams for their commitment to ensuring Cascades' continued leadership position," said Mario Plourde, President and CEO.

Press release from www.cascades.com

Applications now open for Round Two of the Ecofootprint Grant Program

“Enbridge and Lumberjack Resource Conservation and Development Council are excited to announce the opening of applications for Round Two of the two-year $500,000 Ecofootprint Grant Program.

The Ecofootprint Grant was created by Enbridge to support environment restoration and improvement projects along the Line 5 Segment Relocation Project in northern Wisconsin’s Ashland, Bayfield, and Iron counties as well as the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa and the Red Cliff Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa.

Enbridge is partnering with Lumberjack Resource Conservation and Development Council, Inc. to administer the Ecofootprint Grant Program.

“We are excited about the projects funded in the first round of Ecofootprint grants and look forward to seeing new proposals. We are focused on being a good neighbor to the communities where we operate, and we are committed to investing in local initiatives to protect and restore the natural environment,” said Enbridge Community Engagement Strategist Michelle Johnson.

“A partnership with Enbridge to administer their Ecofootprint Grant Program fits squarely within our mission to enhance area natural resources, promote a higher standard of living, improve quality of life and foster partnerships. We are equally as excited to partner with Enbridge and are eager to seek out conservation partners & projects that could be helped through this program,” said Tracy Beckman, Executive Director for Lumberjack RCD.

Lumberjack RCD is a 10-county conservation nonprofit in Northeastern Wisconsin and through their own community conservation grant program, has granted more than $1.2 million to over 100 conservation projects in the past 20 years. Lumberjack also administers dozens of state and federal contracts and grants, all for the purpose of conserving our natural resources.

In their 50-plus years of service, they have developed a reputation for quality, resourcefulness, and transparent nonprofit governance.

In 2023 Enbridge Ecofootprint Grant Program awards went to proposals from the Bayfield County Forestry and Parks Department and the Bayfield County Land and Water Conservation Department. In collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the Bayfield County Forestry and Parks Department received a $50,000 Ecofootprint award to maintain globally rare high quality pine barrens in strategic locations.

The Bayfield County Land and Water Conservation Department in collaboration with the Town of Clover and Wisconsin DNR was awarded $100,000 to add 5.5 miles of spawning grounds for native brook trout to the Cranberry River system through the replacement of a failing culvert that is preventing trout from swimming upstream.

In 2015 Enbridge announced a three-year Ecofootprint Grant Program supporting $3 million worth of environmental projects across the Line 3 Replacement Project area. Learn more about those projects.

The second round of the Ecofootprint grants in northern Wisconsin will continue to prioritize:

• Improving and/or protecting surface water and/or groundwater quality in watersheds crossed by project.

• Advancing research and science related to threatened and endangered species and/or declining populations.

• Fostering environmental postsecondary education and stewardship.

• Improving research related to the transportation of crude oil as it relates to the environment.

• Focusing on environmental areas most relevant to local communities.

The Ecofootprint Grant Program application process opened on Jan. 16, 2024 and the deadline to apply is March 29, 2024. Awards will be announced on Earth Day, April 22, 2024.”

Quote from www.enbridge.com

Scott Suder: EPA rule would needlessly hurt Wisconsin's paper industry

State and national policy in recent years has focused on strengthening our manufacturing sector and bringing back good-paying jobs for Americans.

But this effort could be undone as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency prepares new air quality regulations. The new rule will have significant and adverse impacts on manufacturing, including Wisconsin’s paper industry, a major driver of the local economy.

The EPA is poised to lower the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for fine particulate matter. But the agency’s proposal does little to address some of the largest sources of particulate matter, and it fails to acknowledge a decades-long trend of declining ambient air levels of fine particulate matter.

The regulation is unlikely to meaningfully impact the amount of particulate matter in the air. But it will undoubtedly undermine efforts to grow and bring back American manufacturing jobs from overseas. That’s bad news for our country, and even worse for Wisconsin, whose manufacturing sector accounts for 18.6% of the state’s total economic output, including the forest products industry.

It’s important the EPA craft sustainable regulations that not only protect public health and our environment, but also create opportunities for job growth and economic development. But the EPA’s proposal does neither.

To start, fine particulate matter is emitted by a variety of sources. Major emitters include wildfires, road dust and exhaust fumes. These sources account for nearly 84% of all emissions of fine particulate matter. Yet the EPA’s proposed rule does not account for these sources and their public health impact.

Instead, the proposal incorrectly takes aim at industry partners such as the forest products industry, which is helping to grow domestic manufacturing jobs and deliver lasting, meaningful sustainability. By setting the new limit near background levels, the forest products industry will not be able to get necessary permits to further curb emissions, expand operations or, in some cases, even operate in the country.

Wisconsin would swiftly feel the impact of the EPA’s decision. The forest products industry employs over 50,000 residents, contributing to over $21 billion in annual economic output and an estimated $226 million in state and local taxes. Paper product manufacturing in Wisconsin has been growing fast in recent years — but the EPA’s proposal would severely imperil this progress.

View full article at madison.com

Cascades celebrates 60 years in 2024

“Cascades, a leader in the recovery and manufacturing of eco-friendly packaging and hygiene products, is proud to announce that it will celebrate the 60th anniversary of its founding in 2024. Under the theme Together, the organization will be highlighting its history, culture, values and employees throughout the year thanks to a festivity-filled calendar.

Illuminating the Builders' footbridge

One of the first projects completed was the illumination of the structure of the Builders' footbridge, made of old paper mill equipment, which crosses the Nicolet River. This legacy to the Kingsey Falls community, built by Cascades to mark its 50th anniversary, has been illuminated since January 1, 2024.

Two new artworks in the Bernard-Lemaire Park

Kingsey Falls' Bernard-Lemaire Park has featured a bronze of the co-founder of the same name since 2003. The company recently announced to Laurent and Alain Lemaire that it would erect two new statues in their honour in 2024, in recognition of their extraordinary contribution to Cascades' development.

60 steps to drive positive change

A pioneer in sustainable development, Cascades has been recognized for its innovative practices in this area since the company's earliest days. This year, the organization has set itself the challenge of putting forward 60 initiatives that address one or more social, economic or environmental dimensions of sustainable development.

Celebrations in our units

On March 26, 2024, the company's anniversary, each unit will be invited to celebrate Cascades' 60th anniversary with its employees. Family celebrations are also planned throughout the summer.

Mural projects

Mural projects for selected plants are also in the works, in collaboration with regional artists. This project is in line with Cascades' desire to get involved in the communities in which it operates to enhance the industrial environments that house its plants.

‘The heritage handed down by the Lemaire brothers is a richness that we must share and celebrate. Cascades has grown while preserving its values and culture, and we continue to make it shine. I am confident that the future will be bright for Cascades, and it is this enduring vision that we will pass on to future generations of Cascaders,’ says Mario Plourde, President and CEO of Cascades.

‘In 1964, when my brother Bernard moved to Kingsey Falls to restart the old Dominion Paper Co. mill, we had no idea that the company would grow so rapidly. The entire Kingsey Falls community rallied to support our family's dream, which has now become the dream of our employees. I'm very proud of how far Cascades has come in the past 60 years,’ says Alain Lemaire, co-founder and Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Cascades.

Cascades' first plant, purchased in 1964, was located in Kingsey Falls, Québec, where the company's head office is still located today. Today, the company has 75 business units across North America and 10,000 employees.”

Quote from www.cascades.com

Italian paper company buys ST Paper tissue mill in Minnesota

“Sofidel, an Italian tissue paper manufacturer, has acquired an ST Paper tissue mill in Duluth, Minnesota, enabling the company to ‘immediately meet the ongoing increase in demand in the country.’

ST Paper, based in Oconto Falls, Wisconsin, purchased the facility from Verso Corp. in May 2021. The Duluth mill was idled in 2020, with Verso citing weakened demand for supercalendered paper. Upon its purchase, ST Paper converted the site to produce recycled tissue and began production in January 2023.

‘This is an important acquisition, allowing us to immediately meet the growing demand, which saw significant upturn in 2023,’ Sofidel CEO Luigi Lazzareschi says. ‘What we are acquiring is a technologically advanced plant that further improves our geographic coverage and creates the conditions to strengthen and sustain growth in what is our main market.’

The mill has a production capacity of 65,000 metric tons per year and 80 employees.

As part of its conversion to produce tissue, ST Paper installed a PrimeLineTM W 2000 paper machine from Austria-based technology group Andritz, which offers plants, equipment, systems and services to the pulp and paper industry. The production line is equipped with an Andritz PrimeControl MCS automation system, which includes extended features for automation throughout the tissue line and minimizes the number of subsystems and associated interfaces.

The Duluth acquisition follows Sofidel’s organic growth investment to expand its integrated plant in Circleville, Ohio, which was the company’s first greenfield investment in the United States.

The company announced last September its plans to invest $185 million to expand the Circleville site, including a new paper machine, eventually reaching a production capacity of 200,000 metric tons per year to become Sofidel’s largest production site worldwide. The mill produces mostly virgin tissue products but does use some production scrap as part of its feedstock.

At the time of the announcement, Sofidel called the Circleville plant its most important production site globally.”

Quote from www.recyclingtoday.com

See-through wood is stronger than plastic and tougher than glass

“Thirty years ago, a botanist in Germany had a simple wish: to see the inner workings of woody plants without dissecting them. By bleaching away the pigments in plant cells, Siegfried Fink managed to create transparent wood, and he published his technique in a niche wood technology journal. The 1992 paper remained the last word on see-through wood for more than a decade, until a researcher named Lars Berglund stumbled across it.

Berglund was inspired by Fink’s discovery, but not for botanical reasons. The materials scientist, who works at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden, specializes in polymer composites and was interested in creating a more robust alternative to transparent plastic. And he wasn’t the only one interested in wood’s virtues. Across the ocean, researchers at the University of Maryland were busy on a related goal: harnessing the strength of wood for nontraditional purposes.

Now, after years of experiments, the research of these groups is starting to bear fruit. Transparent wood could soon find uses in super-strong screens for smartphones; in soft, glowing light fixtures; and even as structural features, such as color-changing windows.”

Quote from www.scientificamerican.com