Suzano, the world’s largest pulp producer, has inaugurated the world's largest single-line pulp mill in Ribas do Rio Pardo, Mato Grosso do Sul.
The event, held on December 5, was attended by Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Suzano CEO Beto Abreu, along with other dignitaries and executives.
The mill, with an annual production capacity of 2.55 million tonnes of pulp, represents the largest investment in Suzano's history, totaling R$22.2 billion (~U$4.3 billion). This includes R$15.9 billion (~U$3.1 billion) for construction and R$6.3 billion (~U$1.2 billion) for logistics and forestry development. Operations began in July 2023, creating over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs.
President Lula praised Suzano's contributions to economic growth and sustainability, noting the company's commitment to diversity and inclusion. The workforce at Ribas do Rio Pardo includes 609 women, with many in forestry and industrial roles.
CEO Beto Abreu emphasized the mill's dual benefits: economic impact and environmental stewardship. "We generate renewable energy to power the mill and contribute to the national grid, while planting 1.2 million trees daily and maintaining a negative carbon footprint," Abreu said.
The mill features the shortest average forest base radius among Suzano's operations, minimizing logistical costs and environmental impact. Half of the wood transportation uses hexatrains, reducing fossil fuel usage and emissions.
Suzano's new unit increases its total pulp capacity to 13.5 million tonnes annually and reinforces its role as a sustainability leader. The company has invested in housing, healthcare, and skills training for the local community, with R$57.3 million allocated to projects in healthcare, education, and public safety.
The Ribas do Rio Pardo mill exemplifies Suzano’s commitment to sustainable growth, delivering significant social and environmental benefits while bolstering Brazil's pulp production capacity.
Suzano Papel e Celulose is a Brazilian producer of paper and pulp with a presence in over 80 countries. It is the largest paper and pulp company in Latin America.
