SÃO PAULO (News release) -- Suzano, the world's largest pulp producer, will invest R$25 million to enhance operations at its second mill in Três Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, by installing a new oxidized white liquor (OWL) plant. Expected to begin operating in May, the new plant will boost production efficiency and reduce raw material consumption.

Eduardo Ferraz, Suzano's Director of Industrial Operations in Três Lagoas, says the investment reflects the company's strategy of combining competitiveness with care for people and the environment. "This project will deliver productivity gains and resource optimization, helping to make our operations more efficient and sustainable, whilst also benefitting the local economy," he says.

The Installation Environmental License was issued by Imasul in February. Construction of the new line is already under way, creating around 70 temporary jobs and supporting the local supply chain. The project also includes the installation of a new OWL plant, which will help to improve pulp production efficiency.

Oxidized white liquor is a chemical solution used in industrial processes to optimize the use of raw materials, particularly caustic soda, reducing operating costs and making operations more sustainable. The initiative also reflects growing industrial activity in the region and helps strengthen the local supply chain.

The new line is expected to begin operating once the general shutdown of the unit, which started in April, is complete. "Implementing the new plant during the shutdown allows us to introduce innovation and efficiency at a time already dedicated to reviewing processes. It is a large-scale effort, with more than 2,500 professionals involved in the maintenance and optimization of both mills, helping to strengthen the safety, sustainability, and competitiveness of our operations in Três Lagoas," adds Eduardo Ferraz.

Oxygen Plant

In addition to the new OWL plant, the company is advancing a second project, in partnership with White Martins, to expand the oxygen plant. Unlike the new OWL line, this project will scale up an existing supplier that is already integrated into operations. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of the year, with operations due to begin in early 2027.

Três Lagoas Unit

With two mills in operation, the Três Lagoas Unit is one of the world's largest and most competitive pulp production sites, with a capacity of approximately 3.25 million tonnes per year. The industrial complex employs around 2,000 direct and contract workers, which rises to as many as 6,000 when forestry operations are included.