Ahlstrom ECO™: leading the way in sustainable lignin-based filtration solutions for automotive and industrial applications
AHLSTROM OYJ PRESS RELEASE MARCH 24, 2025 at 11 EET
Ahlstrom, a global leader in fiber-based specialty materials, enhances its offering for its patented lignin-based filtration media. A proven, high-performance alternative to traditional filtration materials further supports customers in making sustainable choices.
Ahlstrom ECO™, introduced in 2023, combines a proprietary lignin-based impregnation, replacing fossil-based resin with a renewable, bio-based cellulose filtration media. This innovation significantly reduces reliance on non-renewable resources while maintaining exceptional durability, mechanical strength, and filtration performance.
Designed for liquid and air filtration, Ahlstrom ECO™ is ideal for engine oil and engine air intake filtration, as well as for industrial filtration systems operating under challenging conditions. By delivering superior filtration performance, it helps optimize equipment protection while contributing to a lower environmental impact.
According to Ahlstrom’s estimates*, the lignin-based impregnated filter media displays a lower carbon footprint than a standard fossil-based resin media. Additionally, the lignin-based impregnation brings a significant reduction, between 50–70% of formaldehyde emission during the curing process. This makes it an industry-leading choice for manufacturers seeking to improve sustainability without compromising performance or reliability. Additionally, a flame-retardant version is available for air filtration applications requiring enhanced fire safety.
"At Ahlstrom, we are committed to leading the transition to more sustainable filtration solutions," says Stephanie Pigeot-Rémy, Ahlstrom’s Head of Global R&D and Product Development, Filtration. "Since launching Ahlstrom ECO™, we have strengthened our expertise and production capacity, enabling us to better support our customers. Together, we are co-developing new solutions, ensuring that sustainability and high performance go hand in hand."
*product carbon footprint estimate, cradle-to-gate using secondary data from Ecoinvent v3.6
For more information, please contact: Stephanie Pigeot-Rémy, Head of Global R&D, and Product Development Filtration stephanie.pigeot-remy@ahlstrom.com
Ahlstrom in brief
Ahlstrom is a global leader in combining fibers into sustainable specialty materials. Our purpose is to Purify and Protect, with Every Fiber, for a Sustainable World. Our vision is to be the Preferred Sustainable Specialty Materials Company for all our stakeholders. Our three divisions, Filtration and Life Sciences, Food and Consumer Packaging, and Protective Materials, address global trends with safe and sustainable solutions. Our net sales in 2024 amounted to EUR 3.0 billion and we employ some 6,800 people. Read more www.ahlstrom.com.