Suzano unveils world’s largest single-line pulp mill

BRAZIL – Suzano, the world’s largest pulp producer, has officially inaugurated the largest single-line pulp mill globally in Ribas do Rio Pardo, Mato Grosso do Sul.

The new mill boasts an impressive annual production capacity of 2.55 million tonnes of pulp. This R$22.2 billion (~US$4.3 billion) investment—the largest in Suzano’s century-long history—comprises R$15.9 billion (~US$3.1 billion) allocated to constructing the facility and R$6.3 billion (~US$1.2 billion) for developing outbound logistics and forestry infrastructure. It is one of Brazil’s largest private investments in recent years.

President Lula emphasized the role of sustainable private investment in driving Brazil’s growth, highlighting Suzano’s commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Ribas do Rio Pardo workforce includes 609 women, 448 of whom are in forestry roles. During construction, the project created over 10,000 direct jobs, and 45,000 people were involved.

The mill, operational since July 2024, employs approximately 3,000 staff across industrial, forestry, and logistics functions.

CEO Beto Abreu lauded the mill’s transformative impact, “This investment benefits people and nature alike. The industrial complex generates renewable energy sufficient for operations and surplus enough to power Mato Grosso do Sul households.

“Additionally, Suzano plants 1.2 million trees daily and extracts more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits—showcasing a sustainable industrial model.”

The facility’s energy efficiency is remarkable. Its surplus green energy production averages 180 MW, enough to power a city of 2 million inhabitants.

This surplus contributes to the National Interconnected System (SIN), reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Expanding Suzano’s production capacity

The mill’s launch increases Suzano’s pulp production capacity from 10.9 million to 13.5 million tonnes annually—a 20% boost.

The company now operates three mills in Mato Grosso do Sul, collectively producing 5.8 million tonnes annually, strengthening the region’s economic framework.

Its forest base, spanning 599,000 hectares—143,000 hectares of which are dedicated to conservation—ensures a sustainable raw material supply.

Suzano’s innovative use of hexatrains for wood transportation reduces fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, further minimizing environmental impact.

Beyond economic contributions, Suzano has invested heavily in local development. Over R$300 million has been allocated to building housing, medical facilities, and infrastructure while supporting education and social projects.

Training programs in partnership with Senai and Senac have equipped over 1,300 individuals with skills for industrial, forestry, and logistics roles.

Through the Basic Environmental Plan, Suzano has invested R$57.3 million (US$9.27m) in 21 healthcare, education, and public safety initiatives.

Voluntary social projects have received an additional R$13.8 million (US$2.23m), emphasizing job creation and income generation in Ribas do Rio Pardo and nearby communities.

Suzano’s Ribas do Rio Pardo mill is a beacon of sustainable industrial development, showcasing how private investment can drive economic growth while prioritizing environmental and social well-being.

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