KTH and APRIL Group: A Partnership Shaping the Future of Sustainable Pulp and Paper Industry
For the past two decades, KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm has fostered a vital academic partnership with APRIL Group, one of the world's leading manufacturers of pulp and paper, headquartered on the picturesque island of Sumatra, Indonesia. As a part of the Royal Golden Eagle (RGE) corporate group, APRIL has become a global player in the forestry sector, producing renewable materials that reach millions of households worldwide.
Mikael Lindström, a professor of pulp technology at KTH, has played a significant role in this collaboration. He emphasizes that APRIL Group offers its employees the opportunity to pursue master's degrees at KTH, specializing in paper and pulp technology. "This exchange program uplifts both our students and APRIL employees. The dedication and ambition of those from APRIL are impressive," shares Lindström.
APRIL Group operates extensive facilities that produce approximately 35 million tons of pulp and over a million tons of paper each year. Recently, they expanded their product line to include paperboard, responding to the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Additionally, Asia Pacific Rayon, a subsidiary of APRIL, produces 300,000 tons of viscose fiber annually, supplying the textile market with recyclable materials.
Beyond its impressive production capacity, APRIL takes pride in its commitment to sustainability and technical innovation. By adhering to Best Available Technology (BAT), they are able to minimize emissions and environmental impact. This profitability enables them to recruit skilled talent and invest substantially in sustainable initiatives.
The bond between KTH and APRIL Group is reflected in the journey of Eduward Ginting, the first student to graduate from KTH's program in pulp and paper technology. Sixteen years after graduating, Eduward is now the Chief Operating Officer at APRIL, overseeing more than 8,000 employees. He fondly recalls his time in Sweden as transformative, highlighting the high academic standards and collaboration with the Swedish forestry industry. "The exchange with KTH has meant a lot for our operations," he asserts.
Eduward emphasizes the dual goals of the exchange program: to gain access to the latest research in the pulp and paper industry and to cultivate personal and leadership development among their employees. "The years spent in Sweden provide new perspectives that enhance our ability to progress in our business." His colleague Widi Suganda, who earned his master's degree in macromolecular materials from KTH in 2023, echoes this sentiment, noting the importance of the knowledge and connections gained during his studies.
Sustainability and circularity form the backbone of APRIL's business operations. Both Eduward and Widi acknowledge Sweden's advanced understanding of these concepts, noting that the Swedish forestry sector is at the forefront of replacing fossil-based materials with biobased alternatives. "Sustainability is not an option for us; it is integral to our business philosophy," Eduward explains.
Additionally, Widi and Eduward have incorporated aspects of Swedish culture into their work practices. The straightforwardness of Swedish work culture, characterized by open communication and collective decision-making, has significantly influenced their operational approach. Both employees appreciate the Swedish concept of “lagom,” which emphasizes balance and moderation in work.
The Swedish coffee break, or 'fika,' has also made its way to APRIL's operations in Sumatra. Eduward points out how valuable these breaks are for fostering dialogue and rejuvenating the workforce. “It’s less talk and more action here; we strive to implement these practices that increase efficiency and collaboration,” he says.
APRIL Group's sustainable practices include ring planting to protect vital ecosystems while maximizing economic returns and employment opportunities for local communities. The implementation of digitalization and drones allows for reduced carbon emissions in their plantation processes, showing that technological advances can go hand in hand with eco-friendly practices.
As KTH and APRIL Group continue to collaborate, the partnership stands as a testament to the potential for educational institutions and industry leaders to work together in building a sustainable future in forestry. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and leadership development, they are paving the way for future generations in the pulp and paper industry.
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