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Latvijas Finieris, a global leader in birch plywood production, has commenced construction of a cutting-edge factory in Riga’s Bolderaja district in Latvia dedicated to producing sustainable synthetic resins from lignin, a natural wood component. The groundbreaking ceremony, held on January 15, 2025, was attended by government officials and international partners, marking a significant step towards reducing reliance on fossil-based materials in everyday products. A time capsule containing messages for future generations was embedded in the foundation of the new facility.
This ambitious project is part of the international VIOBOND research consortium, spearheaded by Latvijas Finieris, which unites eight partners from five EU member states. The VIOBOND project aims to revolutionize the production of phenol formaldehyde resins, widely used in various industries, by developing a greener, more environmentally and human-friendly alternative. These resins are crucial components in plywood, thermal insulation, furniture, flooring, sandpaper, and numerous other common products.
The VIOBOND project represents a total research investment of €32 million, with €16 million secured through a grant from the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program. The remaining €16 million is contributed by the participating companies. Latvijas Finieris’s research contribution amounts to €16 million, with €8 million co-financed by Horizon Europe, the successor to Horizon 2020. In addition to the research funding, Latvijas Finieris is investing approximately €40 million in the construction of the new factory.
The factory construction is slated for completion by spring 2026, with the entire VIOBOND project scheduled for completion by August 31, 2027. The successful implementation of this project promises to have a significant impact on various industries by offering a sustainable alternative to traditional phenol formaldehyde resins.
The new facility will be the world’s first industrial-scale production site for these innovative lignin-based resins. By substituting fossil-based materials with lignin, a byproduct of wood processing, the project aims to significantly reduce the environmental footprint of these essential industrial materials. This shift aligns with growing global efforts to promote bio-based economies and reduce dependence on finite resources.
Latvijas Finieris, with production facilities across the Baltic states and Finland, is a key player in the global wood processing industry. This investment underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning it at the forefront of the transition towards a more environmentally responsible industrial landscape. The new factory represents not just a business venture, but also a commitment to future generations by developing sustainable solutions for everyday products. |
