New large-scale pulp and paper cluster to be established in Russia’s Vologda region

Sokolsky pulp and paper mill. Photo: cultinfo

A new pulp and paper cluster will soon be established within the territory of the Russian Vologda region, according to recent statements, made by representatives of regional authorities and local media reports.

It is planned, in the heart of the new cluster will be two projects, implemented by Segezha Group, one of Russia’s largest pulp and paper producers (part of AFK Sistema). Under the first project, the company plans to complete the construction of a new paper-making machine at the site of Sokolsky PPM, which will allow to start the production of a product that has no analogues in Russia - unbleached grease-resistant paper in the amount of up to 60, 000 tons per year, which is actively used for packaging products. A significant part of future output will be supplied to Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The planned volume of investments is 11.8 billion rubles. The launch of the new project is scheduled for the first half of 2023.

In addition, the Sokolsk PPM plans to quadruple its capacity for the production of lignosulfonate, a by-product of pulp cooking, which is in demand in the chemical, metallurgical, oil, light and other industries.

At the same time a second project will be implemented on the basis of the "Sokolsky Woodworking Plant" – and will involve a complex utilization of bark and wood waste. Recently the largest pellet plant in the region with a capacity of up to 65,000 tons per year was launched within the territory of the site.

By: Eugene Gerden