British Sugar has joined forces with industrial gas company Air Liquide to build a carbon dioxide recovery and liquefaction plant alongside the Wissington bioethanol factory.

The plant, scheduled for commissioning in the summer of 2011, will be able to recover up to 70,000t of CO₂ per year, providing a “significant improvement” in the bioethanol unit’s greenhouse gas rating.

“This latest development supports our commitment to sustainable business investments and organic growth within our non-sugar co-product portfolio,” a statement said.

“British Sugar became the first sugar manufacturer to calculate, certify and publish the carbon footprint of our sugar using the new PAS 2050 method. We continue to be committed to reducing our environmental impact, which is encouraged and supported by the EU Renewable Energy Directive.”