Imagine a future where Norway’s forests not only thrive but power the nation’s transport sector with green fuels. This is the promise of EBIO technology, an innovative solution turning fast pyrolysis oil into sustainable fuels and chemicals. A Social Impact Assessment (SIA) was conducted in Innlandet, a region rich in forestry resources, and revealed how this technology could revolutionize industries, create jobs, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels—all while supporting Norway’s climate goals.
Why Innlandet? Innlandet was chosen for its abundant forests, established wood industry, and active innovation clusters such as the Heidner Biocluster and Norwegian Wood Cluster, which support sustainable initiatives. Its strong industrial foundation and commitment to bio-based value creation make it an ideal testbed for EBIO’s transformative technology.
What are the main findings? The Social Impact Assessment highlighted several potential benefits from implementing EBIO technology in a context like Innlandet:
ECONOMIC GROWTH|
Input-output modeling suggests that the plant could have a positive effect on employment, particularly in forestry and wood processing industries. Significant ripple effects could strengthen the value chain of the region.
SUSTAINABILITY LEADERSHIP|
By converting fast pyrolysis oil into green fuels, the project aligns with Norway’s national decarbonization strategies, reducing reliance on imported biofuels and advancing circular bioeconomy practices.
ATTRACTIVENESS|
The plant could enhance Innlandet’s reputation as a hub for sustainable innovation, attracting investments and skilled workers.
GENDER EQUALITY|
While most new jobs created by the EBIO biofuel plant are expected to be in male-dominated sectors, the need for expertise in chemistry and biochemistry—fields with a high proportion of female graduates in Norway—could attract more women to the industry, particularly in Innlandet.
What are the benefits for society? Workers directly employed by the plant can anticipate equitable pay structures, coupled with opportunities for professional growth. The plant’s operations are positioned to catalyse innovation, promoting the acquisition of specialized skills among employees.
By minimizing the risk of indirect land-use change, the project ensures that its operations do not compromise food security or compete with agricultural priorities. This balance supports fair land management practices and reinforce community well-being.
A foundation of the project is its alignment with Norway’s carbon reduction goals. By producing sustainable fuel alternatives, the plant contributes to significant emission reductions.
Considerations to do: challenges such as the long-term availability of biomass due to competing uses and slower skill development in indirectly affected sectors highlight the need for early interventions to mitigate risks and secure the project’s long-term success.
These insights are derived from a robust methodology, based on a combined SINTEF’s dynamic input-output model for economic evaluations, consultations with local stakeholders, national statistics, desk research, and semi-structured interviews.
Looking Ahead The findings of this SIA suggest that implementing an EBIO biofuel plant in Innlandet could drive positive social and economic change. By embracing innovative technologies like EBIO, Norway can take a significant step toward a sustainable and resilient future.
Curious to learn more about the project? Stay updated on the latest developments.
Disclaimer: This article is based on a publicly available final result described in Deliverable 1.9. The complete report will be published shortly on the EBIO website.