UPM Biofuels joins low-carbon sustainable fuels initiative

UPM Biofuels said Tuesday it has joined an initiative, the below50 coalition, to promote the best-of-breed of sustainable fuels that can achieve significant carbon reductions.

As a part of the below50 coalition, which launched in June, UPM Biofuels said it will aim to use or invest in fuels that are at least 50 percent less carbon intensive than conventional fuels. UPM has been producing a wood-based renewable drop-in diesel for almost two years, according to UPM Biofuels Vice President Sari Mannonen.

Companies in the below50 coalition publicly commit to the campaign, show evidence that supports their claim, and disclose their progress toward achieving this goal.

“Market reaction to our innovative UPM BioVerno, which provides up to 80 percent GHG (greenhouse gas) reduction, has been very positive” Mannonen said. “We believe consumers will increasingly appreciate the environmental and social benefits of truly advanced biofuels."

UPM is also building a sustainable future across six business areas: UPM Biorefining, UPM Energy, UPM Raflatac, UPM Specialty Papers, UPM Paper ENA and UPM Plywood.

Below50 is one of the newest initiatives in sustainable fuels bringing together businesses with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, Roundtable for Sustainable Biomaterials and Sustainable Energy for All.