In a bold move that could reshape Europe’s approach to resource management, EasyMining, a subsidiary of the Ragn-Sells Group, has announced plans to construct a second Ash2Phos plant in Helsingborg, Sweden. This facility, set to commence operations in 2028, will double Europe’s capacity for sustainable phosphorus recovery, processing a staggering 30,000 tonnes of sewage sludge ash annually. This development is not just about waste management; it’s about transforming waste into a valuable resource and reducing Europe’s reliance on imported phosphorus.
Jan Svärd, CEO of EasyMining, underscores the significance of this investment, stating, “To create a sustainable society, we must use the resources we already have, over and over again. This investment unlocks the potential of sewage sludge ash as a domestic and circular phosphorus source.” The Ash2Phos technology, developed by EasyMining, is a game-changer. It recovers over 90% of the phosphorus in incinerated sewage sludge ash, converting it into calcium phosphate, a form that can be used in agriculture to replace virgin phosphorus.
The implications of this technology are vast. Europe currently imports a significant portion of its phosphorus from countries like Russia and Morocco. By recycling phosphorus, Europe can reduce its dependence on these imports, enhancing its food security and resilience. Moreover, the technology generates commercial by-products like ferric chloride and sodium aluminate, further contributing to the circular economy.
The timing of this announcement is strategic. With Germany set to implement stricter regulations by 2029, facilities like the Ash2Phos plant will be crucial in meeting environmental goals. The Helsingborg plant will complement the first Ash2Phos facility in Schkopau, Germany, which is scheduled to start production in 2027. Together, these plants will strengthen Europe’s circular economy and contribute to a more resilient food system.
Christian Kabbe highlights the broader impact of this development, saying, “Doubling our capacity to recover phosphorus is a major step forward in tackling global challenges like resource scarcity and climate change.” The additional capacity in Sweden will support northern Germany while ensuring efficient processing of increasing ash volumes. This is not just about one country or one company; it’s about a collective effort towards a sustainable future.
The Helsingborg project has received SEK 51 million in funding from Klimatklivet, Sweden’s state initiative for climate investments. This investment is a testament to the potential of the Ash2Phos technology and the commitment of stakeholders towards a circular economy. As we stand on the brink of a new era in resource management, this development serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action. It challenges us to rethink our approach to waste and to embrace the potential of circular solutions. The future of phosphorus recovery is here, and it’s circular.
