Assessing the implementation of ultrafiltration in a Brazilian kraft pulp mill

The pulp and paper industry is one of the largest global consumers of freshwater resources. The industry is extremely sensitive to both market fluctuations and increasingly strict environmental regulations, as climate change issues demand a greater focus on sustainability. Reusing water in the production process is one way to increase sustainability and remain competitive in the industry. Ultrafiltration (UF) membrane technology has the potential to reduce water usage by generating high quality permeates that permit their reuse in the production process. This thesis focuses on the implementation of UF membrane systems in a Brazilian bleached kraft pulp mill in the Doce River basin. The technology can be applied to various streams of water or effluents from the production process. However, pilot studies have identified three favorable scenarios. Each scenario is assessed in this thesis based on technical, economic, and environmental benefits, risks and impacts. This assessment is under the umbrella of a wider governance context that is favorable towards the implementation of new technologies. The result is a realistic assessment of each scenario in the form of three empirical models. The governance assessment may be applied to other mills or industries with similar challenges implementing novel, environmentally beneficial technology.