Modellfabrik Papier gGmbH

The Modellfabrik Papier, based in Düren, is an innovative research center dedicated to the development of sustainable and climate-neutral paper production. Founded in 2020, the Modellfabrik Papier has become a central anchor project in the context of structural change in the Rhineland region.

Our main mission is to prepare the paper industry for the future by defossilizing production and making the entire sector climate-neutral. We rely on a healthy mix of tradition, innovation, and change to sustainably transform the value chain of paper production. Our values are based on the networking of science and industry, continuous improvement, and the promotion of the circular economy.

• Research and Development: We focus on developing new, disruptive processes for paper production that aim to reduce energy consumption by 80% and bring CO₂ emissions to zero. This includes the fields of raw materials, processes and methods, digitalization, overall systems and energy, as well as bioeconomy[3][4].
• Innovation Network: The Modellfabrik Papier connects 17 leading companies in the paper industry and supply industry with renowned scientific partners such as RWTH Aachen, FH Aachen, Forschungszentrum Jülich, TU Darmstadt, and the Papiertechnische Stiftung. This network enables the exchange of know-how and the joint development of innovative solutions[2][4].

• Climate-Neutral Paper Production: Our goal is to reduce energy demand in paper production by 80% and bring CO₂ emissions to zero by 2045. To achieve this, we are developing new processes based on local, biogenic raw materials and promoting the use of renewable energies[3][4].
• Bioeconomy: We invest in research on bioeconomy, particularly in the area of wood use, to optimize resource utilization and minimize environmental impact. The wood-based bioeconomy is a central aspect of our research agenda[3].
• Digitalization: With projects like the digital twin (FOREST project), we simulate and optimize the entire production chain to make energy and material flows more efficient and improve processes[3].

The Modellfabrik Papier is located in the innovation quarter at Düren train station. A modern, attractive production hall is being built here, serving as a research center and part of the new green train station quarter. The new building is expected to be completed by the end of 2024 and will be a landmark for innovation and sustainability in the region[2][3].

The Modellfabrik Papier is supported by a wide range of partners, including leading companies in the paper industry, scientific institutes, and research facilities. Supporters include TU Darmstadt, FH Aachen, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Papiertechnische Stiftung, and Technische Universität Dresden[2][3][4].

The Modellfabrik Papier is a vibrant example of how tradition and innovation come together to shape a sustainable future for the paper industry. Through our research work and close partnerships, we are on the way to making paper production climate-neutral and future-proof.

• 1 - https://www.dueren.de/wirtschaft-handel/strukturwandel/modellfabrik-papier
• 2 - https://modellfabrikpapier.de/modellfabrik-papier/
• 3 - https://blogs.fz-juelich.de/biooekonomie/2022/02/16/interview-mit-peter-bekaert-geschaeftsfuehrer-modellfabrik-papier-ggmbh-dueren/
• 4 - https://www.revier-gestalten.nrw/projekte/modellfabrik-papier
• 5 - https://modellfabrikpapier.de