Evaluating Key Parameters for Carbon Footprint Estimation of Non-wood Market Pulp Produced via Mechanical Pulping Processes, TAPPICon24

In this study, we delve into the carbon footprint assessment of alkali peroxide mechanical pulping from wheat straw, shedding light on key insights regarding the environmental implications of the process where the electricity source plays a pivotal role in determining the carbon footprint. However, the perception that alternative fibers such as wheat straw are more sustainable than conventional fibers need to be clarified objectively. For that, carbon footprint was used as main indicator. Results indicate that APMP from wheat straw exhibits a carbon footprint approximately 90% higher than northern bleached softwood kraft (NBSK), primarily due to the contribution of electricity sources, with fossil fuel burning being a significant factor. Notably, NBSK's carbon footprint is reduced by the process's ability to produce energy internally while recovering white liquor. Switching to renewable energy sources, such as wind or hydroelectricity, is possible to almost halve the carbon footprint of APMP from wheat straw, emphasizing the importance of clean energy in industrial processes. These findings can inform decisions regarding energy source selection and process optimization, ultimately reducing the environmental impact of this crucial industrial process.

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