Smurfit Westrock Partners with SLR and RIZM on European Mill Transition Plans

Smurfit Westrock, a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging, is collaborating with environmental consultancy SLR and energy optimization specialists RIZM to develop detailed, site-specific transition plans for numerous recycled paper mills across Europe.

The project focuses on harnessing tailored solutions to achieve Net Zero targets. These site transition plans address multiple objectives for the energy-intensive recycled paper mills. They provide practical decarbonization strategies essential to Smurfit Westrock's company-wide Net Zero Transition Plan.

The plans also mitigate risks from rising EU-ETS costs as free allowances phase out in coming years. Additionally, they future-proof energy strategies amid recent European energy market and policy changes.

SLR and RIZM deliver integrated services leveraging their partnership strengths. SLR leads studies, engages stakeholders, provides technology, market, and regulation insights, and conducts scenario simulations to minimize total cost of ownership.

RIZM supplies advanced software creating digital twins of energy systems, running AI algorithms to enhance future planning and operations for Smurfit Westrock.

The collaboration develops technically and economically viable plans aligned with site operations, energy systems, markets, and policies. These outline key technologies, investments, energy sourcing, costs, and emissions pathways to guide Net Zero execution in Europe.

"Our recycled paper mills are at the heart of Smurfit Westrock's sustainability journey. Developing net zero roadmaps turns our ambition into actionable plans that balance environmental responsibility with economic performance, empowering us to make the right decisions at the right time," said Pim Wareman, Chief Executive Officer Recycled Paper Europe of Smurfit Westrock.