To address the growing demand for sustainable chemicals and plastics, Borealis is taking a major step towards a circular economy by investing €4.5 million in its steam cracker in Porvoo, Finland. This investment is not just an upgrade—it’s about reshaping the future of chemical production.
Moving Beyond Fossil Fuels
The chemical industry is at a turning point, as reliance on fossil fuels and the associated carbon emissions are no longer sustainable. The market is pushing for a rapid shift towards circular solutions, where renewable and recycled materials replace traditional fossil-based feedstocks. This shift demands a combination of innovation, investment, and a strong focus on sustainability, without sacrificing quality or efficiency.
A Commitment to Sustainable Change
Borealis is tackling this challenge through focused upgrades to its Porvoo facility. The €4.5 million investment will revamp three furnaces within the olefins unit, enabling them to process a higher proportion of renewable and chemically recycled materials. By 2025, these improvements will allow the production of 120 kilotonnes of sustainable base chemicals annually, including ethylene and propylene derived from non-fossil sources.
This investment ensures Borealis can continue to deliver high-quality products while significantly reducing its environmental footprint. The renewable and chemically recycled chemicals produced at Porvoo have already earned ISCC PLUS certification, which guarantees the highest environmental standards across the entire supply chain, from sourcing to production.
Supporting a Sustainable Future
Borealis’ investment in Porvoo goes beyond a technological upgrade—it is a commitment to leading the industry towards a more sustainable future. By increasing the use of circular raw materials in its production, Borealis enables its customers to meet the rising demand for eco-friendly chemicals and plastics. This transformation not only helps to reduce carbon emissions but also strengthens economic resilience by lowering dependency on fossil resources.
A Pioneering Move Towards Circularity
Borealis’ investment in Porvoo represents a pioneering step towards a circular economy, demonstrating that sustainability and innovation can work hand in hand. By transforming its production process to embrace renewable and recycled materials, Borealis is addressing the urgent need for sustainable chemical solutions while setting a new standard for the industry. This initiative underscores Borealis’ commitment to environmental responsibility and its vision for a more sustainable future.
Photo: Borealis
Our €4.5 million investment in the steam cracker at Porvoo marks a significant move towards a circular economy. Through furnace modifications and a focus on renewable and chemically recycled base chemicals, we aim to boost annual production to 120 kilotonnes, promoting both environmental stewardship and economic resilience.
Wolfram Krenn – Executive Vice President of Operations and Base Chemicals at Borealis