HELSINKI - Nonwovens manufacturer Suominen has announced that carbon neutral fibres are now available to it customers in North America.

Referring to its partnership with Lenzing, certified carbon neutral Veocel lyocell fibres have so far been available in Suominen’s European plants. However, the Finnish firm is now be expanding availability to the North American market.

"The expansion of a carbon neutral Veocel lyocell fibres to a new and significant market area supports Suominen’s position as the leader in sustainable nonwovens as we are now able to offer carbon neutral fibers to our North American customers," the company said. "Veocel Lyocell fibres will be available through our long-term partner Lenzing."

Suominen was the first nonwoven supplier to start using carbon neutral Veocel fibres in early 2022, the use of which in nonwovens production will enable it to continue to build upon its existing range of sustainable products made from renewable raw materials with a smaller carbon footprint.

"Suominen’s strategy is centered around sustainability. Teaming up with other industry experts helps us fulfill our vision to become the frontrunner for nonwovens innovation and sustainability," the company added.

Carbon neutrality means that the greenhouse gas emissions generated from the product are first calculated, then reduced where possible and lastly unavoidable emissions are compensated via certified carbon offset projects. The amount of compensation needs to be at least the same volume as the greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.

Lenzing’s Veocel fibres offer a 30% lower carbon footprint than the group average for lyocell fibers. The remaining emissions will be compensated through the support of verified carbon offset projects.