Youngone Corporation, a leading Korean textile manufacturer, has successfully completed a $2.7 million project to replace coal-fired boilers with biomass boilers at its textile dyeing factory in Nam Dinh. The transition, finalized on January 15, marks a major step toward the company’s sustainability and decarbonization goals.
Commitment to Carbon Reduction
The initiative aligns with Youngone Corporation’s broader climate strategy, which aims to reduce carbon emissions by 40 percent by 2030. By switching to biomass boilers powered by rice husk pellets, the company is significantly cutting its reliance on fossil fuels while promoting sustainable energy solutions.
The project began in early 2023, with the first biomass boiler installed by the fourth quarter. Three major boilers, including steam and heat transfer oil boilers, were replaced to facilitate the full transition.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
According to Rae Eun Sung, Vice President of Youngone Corporation, the shift to biomass not only reduces carbon emissions but also contributes to waste recycling. By repurposing boiler ash into organic fertilizer, the company is minimizing waste and supporting local agricultural initiatives.
“The project is a critical step in achieving our 2030 carbon reduction targets. It also benefits the local community by creating opportunities for sustainable resource use,” Sung said.
Rice husk pellets, used as fuel for the new boilers, are sourced from local farms, ensuring sustainability and traceability throughout the supply chain. This move not only eliminates the environmental impact of coal but also supports Vietnam’s agricultural economy by turning farm waste into valuable biofuel.
Vietnam’s Biomass Potential
Vietnam generates tens of millions of tons of agricultural byproducts, such as straw and rice husks, each year. Instead of traditional disposal methods like burning or burying, farmers are now able to sell these materials for additional income. Currently, only 3 million tons of the estimated 7.5 million tons of rice husks produced annually are utilized for livestock feed, fertilizer, or fuel.
The growing demand for biomass as a renewable energy source is gaining international attention. At the 2024 Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials, Nguyen Vu Michael, Director of Boeing Vietnam, highlighted the importance of developing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) supply chains, including biomass resources in Vietnam.
Youngone Corporation’s Global Presence
Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Seoul, Youngone Corporation specializes in manufacturing outdoor apparel, sportswear, footwear, and bags for global brands. The company operates production facilities in Bangladesh, Vietnam, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Uzbekistan, and India.
With its latest investment in biomass energy, Youngone Corporation reinforces its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the textile industry while setting a benchmark for eco-friendly manufacturing in Vietnam and beyond.
