Society is placing an increasing demand on materials, which is leading to a “carbon shortage” in certain industries, such as those dependent upon cellulosic fibres. Whilst opportunities may exist for the increased growth of bast fibres, cotton and other fibre resources, there is a need for industries to become more resource aware, and make use of what already exists from other renewable, sustainable resources. One such sector capable of providing cellulosic fibres is the timber industry. Thus, the forestry and forestry-related industries can provide many of the resource challenges facing society and suppliers in the near to medium term.
The challenges being faced by modern society are significant: increasing food production or non-food products, water efficiency, reducing demands on non-renewable resources, climate change and mitigation, toxic chemical release and environmental consideration. The use of timber resources in sources for cellulosic fibres is possible given that the levels of forest coverage is increasing across Europe, with existing and future plantations coming under stewardship schemes, so emphasising the environmental credentials. This, combined with the ability for timber to store carbon during its use, represents a clear way of mitigating carbon levels. Whilst the use of timber for cellulosic resources does not itself represent a means of locking up carbon, the use of timber for this use should not be seen as the sole use for timber. Thus, the efficient use of timber for a range of uses (including solid timber, composites, fuel, paper and cellulosics) needs to be developed. This will generate a more streamlined and productive forest sector.
Keywords: Wood, cellulose fibres, nanocellulose, production, properties
Authors
Jones D.
SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden, EcoBuild, Stockholm, SWEDEN
Östlund Å.
SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden, Borås, SWEDEN
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