Feed aggregator

AFRY has been tasked by Arctic Sisu, a Finnish e-fuel company, to conduct a feasibility study for a large-scale e-methane production facility in Kotka, Finland. The project, planned in three phases, aims to produce 900–950 GWh of renewable e-methane annually, using CO2 from nearby pulp production as a raw material. Source: Timberbiz The study will support Arctic Sisu in making its investment decision which is expected in 2026. The plant would be built next to the existing Kotkamills Pulp & Paper mill and would capture and reuse CO2 emissions from the pulp production process as a raw material for e-methane production, making it Europe’s first facility to capture and reuse CO2 from pulp production. The produced e-methane offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels in the maritime sector. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, the study will provide Arctic Sisu with the detailed analysis required to move forward with the investment decision, including determining the conditions under which e-methane production at the site would be feasible and optimal. If implemented, the commercial production for the first stage is planned to begin in 2028. The study follows a top-down design approach, starting from the overall project and plant goals and progressing to detailed engineering and discipline-specific decisions necessary to achieve those goals. The study incorporates the latest information from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and AFRY’s in-house data, ensuring that all evaluations are based on the most current and relevant technical and market insights. “We see clear value — and have already gained it — from AFRY’s experience in similar plant developments and other industrial projects they’ve contributed to. The collaboration has started off well, and we’re eager to see how it progresses and what this phase delivers, along with the upcoming stages of both the project and sourcing,” says Jonne Pöyhtäri, CEO of Arctic Sisu. “We are excited to partner with Arctic Sisu in this pioneering project to utilize CO2 from pulp production as e-methane raw material and to support them in their journey to become a significant e-fuel producer. We look forward to offering our insights into the entire power-to-x value chain for this project which ultimately enables the transition to more sustainable maritime and other transportation,” said Jukka Lehtonen, Head of Business Unit, Renewable and Thermal Energy at AFRY in Finland. The Kotka plant is Arctic Sisu’s first announced e-methane project. The company aims to become one of the most significant e-fuel producers in Europe by 2030.  

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John Deere has launched its large-size H Series wheeled machines, designed to elevate productivity and operational efficiency. Featuring the all-new 1270H and 1470H Harvesters and 2010H and 2510H Forwarders, these machines integrate enhanced hydraulic systems, advanced automation and ergonomic operator enhancements. By combining powerful performance with sustainability-focused fuel economy, the H Series redefines modern logging operations. Source: Timberbiz “The launch of the H Series represents a bold step forward for John Deere in forestry equipment,” said Mikko Borgstrom, global product marketing manager at John Deere. “These machines are built to deliver exceptional power, precision and fuel efficiency. With an industry-first innovation like enhanced hydraulic systems, advanced automation and an operator-first design, the H Series machines deliver exceptional productivity and performance in the field.” The 1270H and 1470H Harvesters deliver impressive engine power and torque, enabling faster cycle times and improved cutting efficiency compared to the G Series. Advanced hydraulic systems, now featuring three dedicated pumps, provide greater power for feed rollers, saw units and boom movements. Compared to the G Series, H Series Harvesters enable significantly increased productivity and remarkably lower fuel consumption per harvested cubic meter. The H Series harvesters and forwarders deliver impressive lifting and slewing power, stability, and efficiency in challenging forestry environments. Harvesters (1270H & 1470H) Intelligent Boom Control (IBC) 2.0, standard on H Series Harvesters, provides smooth, precise movements, helping to reduce fatigue and increase accuracy. Active Frame Lock brings more stability compared to our previous harvesters, whether working on steep slopes or flat ground. This makes it easier to work when the boom is sideways and gives the operator a larger working area. Forwarders (2010H & 2510H) Compared to the G Series, the new forwarders offer 25% more load capacity, helping to increase efficiency and reduce costs per cycle. F9 and F10 booms extend reach (up to 10.7m) and enhance lift torque for smoother, more efficient load handling. New frame lock system enhances stability, even with full loads on uneven terrain. Operator-First Design: Unrivaled Comfort and Visibility The new H Series cabin features an expanded glass area for improved visibility, along with a quieter interior and a rotating and leveling cabin to enhance precision and reduce operator strain. Ergonomic controls, programmable joysticks and a premium sound system create a user-friendly experience. The Intelligent Cabin Key acts as a personalized remote, unlocking the cabin, powering on the PC and automatically loading operator-specific settings to streamline workflow. The new H Series lineup integrates next-generation digital tools to simplify operations and help reduce unplanned machine downtime. TimberMatic H Automation features a redesigned interface with intuitive controls, night/day display modes, real-time data sharing and site mapping to improve planning and execution. While centralized refill points, electric engine oil level sensors and a central greasing system enhance serviceability and maintenance. The H216 Harvester Head, designed to replace the H270, is a versatile two-roller head optimized for both hardwood and softwood applications. It features a top-saw option, advanced feed motors and a find-end laser sensor, supporting precision and efficiency. Available for the 1270H Harvester with boom reach options of 8.6 and 10.0 meters, it also supports the 1470H Harvester with 8.6, 10, and 11-meter reach configurations.  

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A new study from a SUPERB project, published in Restoration Ecology, shows that planting density strongly influences forest restoration outcomes, but the effects are complex and context dependent. Source: Timberbiz After reviewing 120 studies from temperate and boreal forests, researchers found that higher planting densities tend to boost overall stand yield and carbon storage, especially in early stages. However, it also leads to increased tree mortality and reduced growth of individual trees. The timing and intensity of these opposing effects depend on various factors, such as plantation age and climate type, which creates opportunities for optimized management strategies. Over time, thinning becomes essential in longer-term plantations to maintain tree growth and quality. Where data is limited, moderate densities may offer a balanced approach. The study also calls for more localized research on tree health and biomass to help tailor restoration strategies to specific environments. To read the study go to https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/rec.70103  

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