Behn Meyer and Suzano Join Forces for Sustainable Rubber Production in Europe

Behn Meyer Group, a leading chemical distribution powerhouse from Germany, and Suzano S.A., the world’s premier market pulp producer, have unveiled a strategic alliance to introduce sustainable additives to the European rubber market.

Under this partnership, Suzano will supply its innovative Ecolig®, a multifunctional lignin-based bioproduct, to be incorporated as a sustainable additive within Behn Meyer’s extensive rubber products portfolio, catering to a broad clientele across Europe. Ecolig® stands out as a sustainable alternative to conventional chemical additives and fossil-based antioxidants, playing a crucial role in preventing oxidation and enhancing rubber performance.

Produced exclusively at Suzano’s Limeira mill in São Paulo, Ecolig® is derived from raw materials sourced from Suzano’s fully integrated and responsibly managed eucalyptus plantations in Brazil. Suzano, celebrating its 100th anniversary, is the largest eucalyptus producer globally, managing 2.7 million hectares of land, with 40% dedicated to permanent conservation. Ecolig®, a by-product of the pulp and paper manufacturing process, showcases high antioxidant potential, UV radiation absorption, and binding properties, making it a versatile and valuable addition to various applications.

This collaboration represents a significant step for Behn Meyer in its commitment to enhancing the sustainability of its rubber product portfolio by integrating renewable materials. Serving over 20 countries in the European Union and the UK, Behn Meyer Europe GmbH is setting a new benchmark in environmental stewardship by prioritizing renewable materials like lignin. This initiative not only supports Behn Meyer’s net-zero targets but also aligns seamlessly with Suzano’s mission to expand its portfolio of renewable alternatives to fossil-based products, reinforcing both companies' dedication to sustainability and innovation in the industry.

Kewalin Petcharat, Behn Meyer's Sustainability Leader and Management Board member, emphasized the company's commitment to sustainability through strategic investments and partnerships. One such collaboration is with Suzano, a company that innovates sustainable products. This partnership highlights Behn Meyer's dedication to incorporating eco-friendly materials into their portfolio. By working with Suzano, they aim to showcase the potential of renewable resources like lignin in rubber products, contributing to a more environmentally friendly industry.

Víctor González, Sales & Marketing Manager for Suzano’s Bioproducts business, added that Suzano's goal is to promote a regenerative global bioeconomy. They focus on developing innovative uses for eucalyptus biomass to meet industrial needs sustainably.

He noted that Behn Meyer, with its long-standing history of innovation, is an ideal partner for Suzano. Together, they plan to develop biobased solutions to make the rubber market greener and more sustainable.

To launch this partnership, teams from Behn Meyer and Suzano will be present at Booth No. 9 323 at DKT 2024, the German Rubber Conference in Nürnberg, till July 4, 2024.