SCA has officially become a co-owner of SweTree Technologies' cutting-edge pilot facility, marking a significant step forward in forest innovation.
This collaboration focuses on Somatic Embryogenesis (SE) technology, a groundbreaking method that accelerates the production of plants from superior seed material. This partnership enhances the development of more resilient and faster-growing forest plants, contributing to sustainable forestry.
SweTree Technologies, in collaboration with major forestry companies such as Stora Enso, Sveaskog, Södra, and Holmen, is working to advance automated plant production via SE. Now, with SCA joining the initiative, the project has gained even more momentum. The pilot facility, developed and operated by SweTree Technologies, aims to scale SE technology for industrial-level plant production, offering immense benefits for the forestry sector.
While previous efforts primarily centered on spruce plants, SCA’s involvement has expanded the scope to include SE technology for pine trees. This new phase of development will run in parallel with ongoing spruce research, with all participating companies working together to enhance the technology’s applications.
“We are very pleased to have SCA join the SE project,” said Christofer Rhén, CEO of SweTree Technologies. “With all five major Swedish forestry companies now on board, we are well-positioned to advance SE technology to a commercial scale, revolutionizing plant production for the forestry industry.”
Thomas Vestman, head of SCA's plant operations NorrPlant, highlighted the exciting potential of this collaboration. “This development project is at the forefront of forest plant research. With increased breeding levels, we can produce plants that grow faster and capture more carbon dioxide, contributing to climate benefits and offering more renewable raw materials that can replace fossil-based products.”
As the SE pilot project progresses, SweTree Technologies and its partners aim to lead the way in producing healthier, faster-growing forest plants, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient forestry sector.
For more info about: SweTree
SCA (Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget) is a Swedish company specializing in forestry, timber, pulp, and paper production. Founded in 1929 and based in Sundsvall, Sweden, SCA is one of Europe's largest private forest owners, managing about 2.7 million hectares of forest. www.sca.com