NEW BRUNSWICK (From CBC News) -- J.D. Irving Ltd. has applied for approval to install a new effluent treatment system at its pulp mill at Lake Utopia but it's not clear what difference it will make to the Bay of Fundy estuary it flows into.

The company says the upgrades will reduce odours and capture methane gas to bring down fossil fuel use at the mill.

"This reduction in fossil fuel energy can be equated to heating 4,200 New Brunswick homes per year," said Mary Keith, a JDI spokesperson.

"Adding a process water storage tank will dramatically reduce the outdoor storage of untreated, odorous liquids."

An environment impact assessment application says the upgrades will also allow the mill to increase production of high-grade corrugated medium, used for such things as cardboard boxes.

The upgrades are expected to cost $29 million.

The project has not yet received environmental approval.

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Join Jim Thompson on the 2nd Annual Papermakers Mission Trip to Guatemala, 22 - 29 July 17. Build houses, talk about the pulp and paper industry. For more information, email jthompson@taii.com with "Guatemala" in the subject line.