The decision by Södra’s Executive Committee was taken at a meeting held on 7 December.“In addition to earlier decisions concerning our participation in the development of wind power in 2012, we have now decided on an appropriation limit of SEK 1,895 million,” said Leif Brodén, CEO of Södra.“This will now permit a number of offensive investments to be made,” Brodén continues. ”We are intending to continue investing in product improvements, but first and foremost we now perceive opportunities for further investments in bioenergy.””We are taking into account an investment in Lignoboost at Södra Cell Mörrum, which will involve a potential investment in new biomaterials in future, as well as making the mill fossil fuel-free. We are envisaging an investment in a new lime kiln at Södra Cell Värö, and we envisage even more pellet production capacity.”According to Leif Brodén, the budget also allows for another investment in textile pulp. The plan is to convert another pulp line for production of textile pulp. Presently, one line at Södra Cell Mörrum is being converted for production of textile pulp. Production of textile pulp will be commencing at Mörrum in December this year.“Hopefully we will have time to identify which of our lines is most suitable prior to the fourth quarter of 2012. Textile pulp offers major benefits in terms of quality, sustainability and ecology, and we believe we will see good growth in years to come,” Leif Brodén says.“The forecast results for 2011 indicate an operating profit of almost one billion Kronor and a return of ten percent on capital employed. We are seeing a similar result level in our budget for 2012, with uncertain environmental factors,” concludes Brodén. /AA