Investments in circular economy, decarbonisation and operational efficiency projects will strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of operations, boost exports and contribute to the community.

Sonae Arauco, one of the world's leading manufacturers of wood-based panels, is investing around 50 million euros in its Oliveira do Hospital plant, with the aim of strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of its operations, boosting exports and contributing to the community. The investments cover projects in the areas of circular economy, decarbonisation and operational efficiency, as well as reforestation and recovery of areas affected by fires.

In the area of decarbonisation, the group has made a global commitment to reduce carbon dioxide emissions (scope 1 and 2) by 59% by 2029. In this context, in Oliveira do Hospital, Sonae Arauco is going to implement a solar renewable energy production project for self-consumption, which will enable it to meet around 30 per cent of the needs of its unit located in the municipality.

In terms of operational efficiency, the group is investing in two new warehouses in Oliveira do Hospital, which will make it possible to strengthen the company's competitiveness and consolidate its delivery capacity. This project includes the digitalisation and automation of the warehouses, as well as the production process, offering efficiency gains and improving the impact of operations.

In terms of the circular economy, in addition to a recent investment in the creation of a new pre-crushed line, which is already making it possible to increase the capacity for incorporating recycled wood, with the aim of reaching 85% by 2026, the company is studying the development of innovative technology to separate MDF from the recycled chip received at the factory. This investment will make it possible to leverage greater incorporation of recycled wood into MDF solutions and underlines the company's commitment to sustainability and innovation in the sector.

All these industrial projects are included in PRR agendas and are strategic for the company and the country.

Rui Correia, CEO of Sonae Arauco, says: "The projects underway will contribute to making Sonae Arauco's plant in Oliveira do Hospital a world reference in the sector. We are investing in the green and digital transition of the plant in order to improve its long-term competitiveness and ensure its sustainability. We are committed to the community of Oliveira do Hospital, generating economic and social value for all, namely in terms of wealth creation and redistribution and improving the territory and the forest."

Within this framework, the contribution to the local community has also been made through reforestation activities and the recovery of burnt areas. The company, which is already managing an area burnt down  2017 in Vale da Macieira, is currently negotiating a lease and intervention proposal for an area of around 50 hectares, which includes controlling invasives, reducing the risk of fires, managing the existing pine forest, restoring water lines and planting hardwoods.

Sonae Arauco is one of the driving forces behind the region's economy and is currently one of the largest employers in the municipality of Oliveira do Hospital, responsible for over 200 direct jobs and around 600 indirect jobs. The products manufactured at the plant are mainly destined for the demanding European market.

José António Silva, Plant Manager of Sonae Arauco in Oliveira do Hospital, concludes: "Oliveira do Hospital plays a central role in the group's strategy, which is why we are reinforcing our investment in the municipality with innovative and sustainable projects that put us at the forefront of the sector. We want to continue to take the products produced at our plant all over the world, focusing on differentiating our offer through innovation, design and sustainability."