Sappi and Biobased Maine put out joint RFP for Westbrook mill

Photo / Tim Greenway Charlotte Mace, the executive director of Portland-based Biobased Maine. The nonprofit, in partnership with Sappi North America, has issued a RFP seeking biobased technology to incorporate into existing operations at Sappi's Westbrook mill.

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By Staff

Sappi North America , in partnership with Biobased Maine, issued a RFP seeking biobased technology to incorporate into existing operations at Sappi’s Westbrook mill.

The Westbrook mill is the world’s leading producer of casting and release papers and has approximately 320 employees, according to Sappi North America.

The business intent of Sappi’s RFP is to identify technology for commercially viable growth opportunities in the bio-materials arena that could be deployed at the Westbrook mill.

“The overall business objective of this project is an increased utilization of Maine-based wood resources processed into higher value bio-based materials for sale into growth markets,” the RFP stated.

Projects involving up to 300,000 dry tons of biomass will be considered, with the understanding that the technology deployed would be integrated into the current operations of Sappi’s Westbrook mill. Potential markets that would be considered include bio-based fibers, fuels, chemicals and advanced materials.

“Biobased Maine is pleased to support this effort,” said Charlotte Mace, the nonprofit’s executive director who is a member of the 2016 Mainebiz Next list. “Sappi North America’s RFP represents a potential opportunity to create jobs through the manufacture of high-value biobased products from our forest resource.”

The deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, June 2, and submissions should be sent to Mace.

“Sappi is committed to sustainable operations and the importance of advancing technology in support of our strategy and corporate vision,” the RFP stated. “Sappi’s strategic interest includes the area of renewable material development and participation in improved bio-derived solutions.”