In the latest episode of Branching Out: the forest podcast, host Jose Bolaños (IUFRO HQ) welcomed Franka Brüchert and Roger Meder, Co-Coordinators of IUFRO Division 5 Forest Products. The conversation explored the evolving role of forest products in the world’s economy and how wood might define the 21st century.

The architect and timber architecture advocate Alex de Rijke is often quoted as saying “the 17th century was the age of stone. The 18th century was the peak of brick. The 19th century was the era of iron. The 20th century was the century of concrete. The 21st century will be the time for timber.” And this reference set the tone for the discussion. Roger elaborated, “Division 5 for me is really the heart of forestry. It’s a very diverse division. We cover everything starting from traditional wood products... to non-wood products as well… But for me, Division 5 is where we make use of our forests.”

Franka explained that the Division itself is further divided into 10 research groups, one of the most active being the wood identification group. This group focuses on answering the question: Where does the wood come from? This information is crucial for international trade and marketing.

The episode also touched on innovative uses of forest products and highlighted that wood has many advantages over other materials in terms of its machinability, its tactile nature, the ability for it to be moulded into many features, etc. Franka added an example of the Berlin Fashion Show 2024, which had a unique collection created using textile fibres made from beech wood.

Challenges remain, including market competition and building regulations. Franka noted that Glulam, for example, took two decades to find its way to the market and called to be patient and persistent to push new ideas through.

Looking forward, the All Division 5 Conference in 2027 aims to gather scientists and innovators to share knowledge and explore new forest product applications. As Roger put it, “What strikes me is that we’re seeing interest from regions of the world where traditionally Division 5 hasn’t had a very strong representation, and I find that exciting.” Tune in to Branching Out: the forest podcast! Listen wherever you enjoy your podcasts, on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and don't forget to follow us!