High-value timber applications

Exploring opportunities for using fast-growing broadleaf timber species in construction – a supply chain project

In Europe, coniferous forests in particular are experiencing a decline in vitality and increased tree mortality. Forest managers are investing in reforestation, forest restoration, and improved forest management, which also contributes positively to CO₂ storage. From a biodiversity perspective, revitalization efforts are focused on increasing the proportion of broadleaf tree species.

This shift will have consequences for the future timber supply, including a reduction in the total availability of wood and a higher proportion of broadleaf species wood. At the same time, the demand for wood in the European construction sector is increasing. This calls for more efficient and high-value use of timber, as well as greater knowledge and experience with the high-value application of broadleaf timber.

The Netherlands largely meets its timber demand through imports of sawn coniferous wood from Europe; the demand for broadleaf species remains lower. This project explores the potential for timber production from fast-growing broadleaf species on fertile soils in the Netherlands for high-value timber applications. The aim is to encourage supply chain actors to sustainably produce and use more Dutch broadleaf timber in high-value applications, while paying attention to (new) revenue models and close collaboration between researchers, students, and industry partners.

The project consortium, of which Stichting Probos is a member, is led by Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences. Other participants include various universities of applied sciences, Staatsbosbeheer (the Dutch state forestry service), SMEs, and trade organisations representing the forest, timber, and construction sectors. Within the project, Stichting Probos contributes to answering the following research question:
"How can more broadleaf wood of sufficient quality become available to the Dutch timber industry from sustainably managed forests and the establishment of (mixed) plantations on fertile soils?"

Based on National Forest Inventories, we will map where fast-growing broadleaf species are currently found on fertile soils. We will also estimate how much high-quality timber can be expected from these forests in the medium term. In addition, we will draw on our experience with the ‘Nationale Bossenmakelaar’ to bring parties together to establish forests with fast-growing species.

Information

Expert(s): Nienke Welle & Sander Teeuwen
Client(s): Hogeschool Van Hall Larenstein
Years: 2024-2026