In addition to the Fernandina Beach operation , RYAM operates manufacturing facilities elsewhere in the United States , Canada and France . These facilities produce a variety of cellulose-based products and derivatives .
The plant also produces electricity , says Chamber , producing more than 99 % of total energy / electricity for operations .
A 2019 proclamation by then Fernandina Beach Mayor John A . Miller recognized .
RYAM ’ s importance to the community for their decades-long heritage of dedicated leadership , environmental stewardship , and civic responsibility .
And during the last decade , RYAM has continued to grow within Nassau County significantly .
“ RYAM is a key player in stimulating the community ,” says Sherri Mitchell , executive director of the Nassau County Economic Development Board . “ Beyond job creation , manufacturing plants contribute significantly to the local gross national product , revenue streams and tax base , acting as a catalyst for economic stability in the region .”
Mitchell says RYAM stands on building a sustainable , vibrant community and continues to evolve in their field with innovative , forward-thinking initiatives .
Growth to the Future
In 2016 , the Fernandina Plant patterned with Eight Flags LLC ’ s combined heat and power plant , the most efficient power plant in the world , Chamber says .
A $ 35 million capital investment brought Eight Flags to the plant . Here , it generates 20 megawatts of power for Florida Public Utility ’ s Amelia Island customers .
In 2018 , LignoTech Florida , a 55 / 45 percent joint venture , officially opened .
The agreement , owned by Borregaard and RYAM , brought 50 new high-paying manufacturing jobs to Fernandina Beach .
Chamber says lignin , a natural component of wood , is a co-product of RYAM ’ s sulfite cellulose manufacturing process . LignoTech Florida provides environmentally-friendly alternatives to fossil fuelbased products used globally . And there ’ s more on the horizon . “ RYAM ’ s proposed 2G BioEthanol plant is simply the next step in our evolution as a company , taking advantage of a growing demand for sustainable , environmentally friendly products ,” Chamber says .
If approved , the 2G BioEthanol plant will offer more solutions to some of the world ’ s toughest challenges while maintaining local manufacturing jobs .
“ The project is good for our environment , good for our company , and good for our community in
Ben Chambers
Fernandina Beach . It ’ s a win-win-win for the environment , economy and community .”
With firm roots in the community and an eye to the future , Chambers says RYAM is in a unique position that benefits Fernandina Beach and Nassau County .
“ We invest in research and development to innovate and improve product offerings . We work closely with customers to develop specialized solutions to meet specific needs ,” he says . That translates to a strong market position . “ The company is recognized as a leading supplier of cellulose specialties globally ,” says Chambers . “ We have a strong market position due to expertise , quality products and commitment to sustainability .”
Patrick Evans-Hylton is an award-winning journalist with four decades of experience in business and leadership .
FALL 2024 | 19 |