Energy Efficiency, GHG Emissions, Industrial  -  December 4, 2023

Ascend Reaches GHG Abatement Goal

Ascend Performance Materials began operating a new thermal reduction unit (TRU) that will eliminate over 98% of the GHG emissions tied to adipic acid production in Pensacola, Florida. 

The new equipment enhances improvements the material solutions provider made in 2021 by adding a new control device. Ascend’s total GHG reduction investments at the integrated nylon site to over $50 million.

In 2022, Ascend increased its target to reduce its Scope 1 emissions to 90% as part of its 2030 Vision.

"We have worked to ensure that the sustainability improvements we make are both meaningful and long-lasting," said Chris Johnson, Ascend's senior director of sustainability in a statement. "Utilizing carbon financing, this additional project is a meaningful component of our voluntary Scope 1 reductions defined as part of our sustainability goals."

The TRU project uses a high-temperature reducing environment that permanently destroys N2O, a potent GHG. The project has robust monitoring, including calibrated flow meters and a continuous emission monitoring system (CEMS), and is third-party audited to ensure that emission reductions comply with internationally recognized protocols.

In addition to investments in Pensacola, Ascend reduced its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by installing cogeneration units at its facility in Decatur, Alabama, switching to 30% renewable energy at its facility in Chocolate Bayou, Texas, and making its global compounding operations carbon neutral through process improvements and purchases of renewable energy credits.