Fossil-free production

First large electric forklift in the forest industry

In partnership with Kalmar Industries, we introduced an electric forklift in our sawmill at Värö in 2019. Small electric forklifts have been around for some time, but are now taking centre stage among heavier vehicles. The electric forklift at Värö is the first of its size in the forest industry.

Challenge

• Shortage of liquid biofuels
• Workplace health and safety (diesel particle emissions)

Solution

• In partnership with Kalmar Industries, we are testing an electric forklift in our sawmill at Värö. 

Effect

• The electric forklift generates less noise and vibration, providing more comfort for the operator.
• The same energy used to run our facilities is also used for our forestry vehicles, which means we can be self-sufficient in the energy for our forklifts.
• The forklift is emissions-free.

Our nurseries are 100-percent fossil-free

Södra’s nurseries transitioned to fossil-free operation in 2018. Heating, machinery and vehicles are all powered by renewable energy.

Challenge

• Sustainable heating for the greenhouses.
• Fossil-free solution for heavy vehicles in rural areas

Solution

• Greenhouses, production facilities and staff areas are heated with pellets from our own sawmills at Långasjö and Värö, or with geothermal heat pumps or bio-oil.
• The electricity is green and generated in our pulp mills.
• All machinery and vehicles are powered by hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO).

Effect

• Södra’s nurseries transitioned to fossil-free operation in 2018.
• Heating, machinery and vehicles are all powered by renewable energy.

Biogas in Åstorp

Challenge

Due to the need for gas for impregnation, Södra Wood was not totally fossil-free.

Solution

Switched to biogas.

Effect

Södra Wood’s production became totally fossil-free.