Luleå and the green transition

LKAB extracts mineral fertilizers, rare earths, gypsum and fluorine from mine waste with the aim of improving Europe's access to key raw materials. Currently, the ReeMAP project extracts phosphorus in quantities equivalent to five times of Sweden's needs, and gypsum to meet the entire needs of the Swedish construction industry. Furthermore, rare earths are extracted, which account for 30 percent of European demand, and up to 100 percent of certain rare earth elements. The company's stated goals are to become a center for the chemical industry in northern Sweden, to set world-leading standards for clean products, energy efficiency and reduced emissions, as well as to attract unique expertise, strengthen the competitive advantage of LKAB and the region, and provide opportunities for new collaboration. The company aims to create 500 new jobs by 2027.

– The climate can't wait and demand for the raw material for producing fossil-free steel is already upon us – before we have even reached the market, says Jan Moström, LKAB's President and CEO. Länk till annan webbplats.

For the development and production of environmentally friendly battery anodes, clean and renewable energies are used in the Talga company. The carbon footprint is kept low through deliveries only within the EU and high technical performance in general. In addition, active efforts are made to achieve a net gain in biodiversity (CLIMB project). Through investments in technologies, remedial actions and research, the impact on nature is to be minimized.

As one of the leading companies in the field of hydrogen, Uniper is an important part of the green transition. The use of hydrogen brings the future without fossil fuels within reach since the use of electricity for cars, bicycles or similar is not possible for heavy means of transport such as ships or aircraft. This is where hydrogen (combined with biogenic carbon dioxide) can help out and be used as an ‘electric fuel’ in combustion engines. Currently, this fuel is mainly used in shipping. In this way, carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced there by 100,000 tons per year (shipping is responsible for about 2.5 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, which is about the same proportion as aviation).

Fertiberia, the Spanish fertilizer manufacturer, plans to invest one billion euro and to start producing 100 percent green ammonia and fertilizer by 2026. During the construction phase, this will create up to 2,000 jobs, and about 500 after the completion. Ammonia is a versatile product that is easier to transport and store than hydrogen. Ammonia can be used in the energy sector, instead of gas, and to reduce emissions in shipping.

When starting your own business or opening another subsidiary in Luleå, Luleå Business Region can be helpful. This is a municipal company dedicated to promoting a diverse, sustainable and strong business environment. The focus is on supporting initiatives, businesses and forums on a local and regional level by helping investors, visitors, businesses and event organizers. It does not matter what industry or stage of development the company is in. Luleå Business Region assists with access to authorities, networking, product development, financial issues as well as training, development coaching. Within event management, the company helps with finding free capacity for accommodation and facilities, developing marketing materials and applications for meetings, finding organizers for meeting management, ideas and tips for activities in the area and much more.

The green transition is already happening, yet there is always something to do. The city of Luleå offers the perfect environment, resources, networks and infrastructure to successfully produce carbon neutral. Become a part of the green transition, become a part of the future!