Stora Enso division moves US HQ to Raceland, Louisiana

Following the acquisition of biotechnology company Virdia last year, Stora Enso is building a demonstration and market development plant at Raceland, Louisiana, US.

 The new plant will become the Stora Enso Biomaterials divisions’ US headquarters. It uses technology developed by Virdia and enables cellulosic biomass, such as wood or agricultural waste, to be converted into highly refined sugars.

 The facility is located in the vicinity of existing sugarcane plantations and will use bagasse waste as feedstock. Sugarcane bagasse is a sustainable, non-genetically-modified feedstock that does not compete with food. Production is set to start in 2016.

 ‘By moving the headquarters to Louisiana, we are increasing our presence and helping further develop biomass based technology. We are committed to the long-term success of the Raceland plant,’ says Juan Carlos Bueno, EVP, Stora Enso Biomaterials division.