The Cerrado Project by Suzano stands as one of the world’s largest and most ambitious pulp industry initiatives. Located in Ribas do Rio Pardo, Mato Grosso do Sul, this new plant will be the world’s largest single-line pulp mill, with a total investment exceeding USD $ 4,3billion
Timenow, a leader in engineering consulting, is managing the implementation of the construction infrastructure, the manufacturing unit, and utilities for this monumental endeavor.
Significance of the Cerrado Project
The Cerrado Project is crucial for both Suzano and the region. It represents a more than 20% increase in Suzano’s current pulp production and will generate numerous direct and indirect jobs, boosting the local economy.
With a capacity to produce 2.55 million tons of eucalyptus pulp annually, the plant will significantly contribute to sustainability and eco-efficiency, reinforcing Suzano’s commitment to the environment and the communities it serves.
Timenow plays a vital role in ensuring the success of this project, making sure every phase of construction is completed on time and within budget, with maximum efficiency and quality.
“This project leaves a lasting legacy for society and the local community, benefiting from infrastructure investments, healthcare improvements, and new job opportunities. Contributing to this project alongside Suzano shows that we are on the right path, helping our clients and society grow sustainably,” said Vinícius Bravim, Timenow’s General Operations Director.
Timenow’s Role in the Cerrado Project
Timenow is responsible for planning, construction management and integration of all suppliers of the Cerrado Project. With a strategic, digital, and results-focused approach, Timenow ensures all project stages are executed efficiently and within the established timeline.
The company oversees planning, field supervision, and the integration of all companies involved in the construction, ensuring the project is delivered with the anticipated quality and functionality. Timenow has a proven track record of success in managing complex projects, making this one of its specialties.
Key aspects of Timenow’s work include rigorous resource management, the implementation of innovative solutions to optimize processes, and strict adherence to safety and sustainability standards.
Jonathan Bento, Timenow’s Operations Director for Paper, Pulp, Agribusiness, and Food, highlights the project’s complexity and the continuous pursuit of excellence in the partnership with Suzano. “The Cerrado Project stands out for the size of its equipment and the level of automation and digitization in the production process. This makes the project sustainable, allowing employees to make the best decisions for society through data analysis. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to excellence in every initiative we undertake.”
Timenow’s extensive experience in large industrial projects significantly contributes to the successful advancement of the Cerrado Project.
Economic and Social Impact
The Cerrado Project represents a total investment of USD $ 5billion and is expected to create up to 10,000 direct jobs at the peak of construction. Additionally, Suzano’s new pulp unit will generate 3,000 new jobs, including direct and third-party positions, in forest and industrial operations. The job creation not only boosts the local economy but also provides growth and professional development opportunities for the region’s population.
The project’s economic and social benefits extend beyond job creation. Suzano is investing in various initiatives to improve the quality of life for local communities, such as teacher training, support for family farming, beekeeping, livestock, and circular economy projects.
Furthermore, efforts in violence prevention, family planning, and improvements in hospital infrastructure, water resources, domestic sanitation, and solid waste management are underway to promote a lasting positive impact in the region.
By managing the construction of this large-scale project, Timenow not only contributes to the economic development of Ribas do Rio Pardo but also reinforces its commitment to social responsibility and environmental sustainability.
Eco-efficiency and Sustainability
Suzano’s new plant in Ribas do Rio Pardo stands out for its innovation in sustainability, particularly through biomass gasification, which replaces fossil fuels in lime kilns. This technological advancement is a milestone in eco-efficiency, highlighting Suzano’s commitment to significantly reducing its carbon emissions.
The unit will be the company’s most competitive, combining high production with a low environmental footprint, demonstrating that sustainable growth is possible.