His Majesty the King on Sunpine: “important for the future”

​His Majesty the King visited SunPine. The fuel switch to climate-smart alternatives like tall diesel is engaging. 

– This is important for the future, said King Carl XVI Gustaf.

It was a technical visit a little out of the ordinary that took place at SunPines' biorefinery on Wednesday, October 9. His Majesty the King and the Governor Björn O. Nilsson and his entourage received a presentation and tour of the factory, accompanied by, among others, SunPines CEO Magnus Edin. His Majesty the King asked many engaged questions about the various challenges of sustainability work.

– There are many different wills already around forestry, some want to focus on production, some want to preserve old-growth forests. It is important to find a good balance there, the King noted.

When development manager Valeri Naydenov presented the chemical process behind SunPine, His Majesty stated:

– It must be very complex to manage all the patents and to secure the technologies you have developed.

Magnus Edin, CEO, SunPine:

– It is very appreciated that the Royal Court has contacted us and wants to visit SunPine. His Majesty the King showed both interest and commitment to our operations and the tall diesel we produce. His Majesty was well informed and asked questions about everything from the transition to sustainable biofuels to sustainable forestry. It was a good conversation about the challenges that exist and our investments for the future.

His Majesty the King took part in the investment decisions and facts about the second factory, which is planned to be put into operation in 2020. During the tour of the factory, which was led by production manager Jonas Vinbland von Walter, the King also took the opportunity to speak to the media about his interest in SunPine and new sustainable innovations.

– The young people and the Crown Princess are very interested. She was here a number of years ago, so she takes things like this on board. She is just as interested as I am and has understood that this is important for the future, stated His Majesty the King.

The trip to Norrbotten was under the theme of sustainability and also included visits to Markbygden's wind power plant, the large project around Hybrit and Luleå University of Technology.