Self-Sufficiency and the Environment in Focus for Biorefinery Östrand

  • News

Biorefinery Östrand is not just a project aimed at combating climate change—it has now taken on an additional dimension. In an increasingly unstable global landscape, Biorefinery Östrand can enhance Sweden’s ability to be self-sufficient in sustainable fuels. This combination of climate action and national self-sufficiency has made the project more relevant than ever.

Self-Sufficiency – A Matter of Public Interest

A public opinion survey commissioned by Biorefinery Östrand and conducted by Axiom in the fall of 2024 shows strong support for the project's objectives. According to the survey, eight out of ten Swedes believe that green initiatives, such as the development of renewable energy and sustainable fuels, are crucial for reducing global warming. Seven out of ten support the idea of using byproducts from the forestry industry—such as sawdust and bark—to replace fossil-based alternatives. Just over two out of ten respondents had no opinion, while fewer than one in ten opposed the idea.

The issue of self-sufficiency also resonates broadly—80 percent of respondents agree that Sweden should become more self-sufficient by producing more fuel from domestic raw materials. The survey further reveals that support for this goal is evenly distributed across different social groups and political views, highlighting a broad consensus on the matter.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel – A Future Solution

Biorefinery Östrand’s CEO, Roger Östlin, has noted a growing interest in the project’s end product, driven in part by the increasing importance of self-sufficiency:

Roger Östlin

"In a world where global supply chains are becoming more vulnerable, this project stands out as a strategic investment for the future. With strong support from the Swedish public and a clear vision for both the environment and self-sufficiency, Biorefinery Östrand has the potential to become a symbol of sustainable development and European security."

Technical advancements in sustainable aviation fuel have already been proven. Several flights around the world have been successfully powered by 100 percent sustainable fuel. In Sweden, SAAB has demonstrated this with its Gripen fighter jets. The results clearly show that sustainable aviation fuel is a viable solution for the future of air travel.

Biorefinery Östrand is no longer just a project to fight climate change—it has evolved into a crucial initiative for strengthening Sweden’s self-sufficiency and energy security.