Faced with climate damage and bark beetle infestations, Germany’s forestry sector and industry are investing in new ways to use wood. The goal: reduce dependence on timber sales and develop sustainable models.
Fraunhofer researchers showed that even dead spruce can be used for OSB panels. The “Lignew” wood foam – lightweight, compostable, and insulating – is ideal for alpine buildings.
Pollmeier creates high-strength beech components that rival steel, while UPM is launching a biorefinery in Leuna that turns beechwood into industrial base materials.
CarboForce uses pyrolysis to transform old wood into biochar – excellent for storing CO₂ and enriching soil.
For alpine communities, these approaches offer a sustainable path forward.
