As the global woodworking and wood processing industry prepares for the world’s leading trade fair, LIGNA 2025, set to take place from May 26 to 30 in Hanover, climate-conscious forest management and the efficient use of wood resources will take center stage. With the pressing challenges of climate change, the forestry industry is exploring innovative ways to optimize forest stands, ensuring the future supply of renewable and sustainable raw materials. This forward-thinking approach will be a focal point for industry experts, forestry professionals, and environmental advocates as they gather to discuss and showcase the latest advancements in timber harvesting, forest management, and resource efficiency.

Meeting the Climate Challenge with Active Forest Management

The forestry industry has been significantly impacted by climate change, with severe weather events and forest damage leaving many areas in need of reforestation. Stephanie Wagner, Head of LIGNA at Deutsche Messe, emphasizes the importance of developing forest stands that are adapted to the evolving climate conditions. “At LIGNA, exhibitors will showcase how to develop forest stands that are better adapted to local conditions and the changing climate, securing the future supply of renewable, climate-friendly wood,” Wagner explains.

With the focus on people and the environment, LIGNA 2025 will explore how active forest management contributes to addressing these challenges. Experts like Dr. Maurice Strunk, Federal Managing Director of the German Forest Contractors Association (DFUV), highlight the dual role of technology in making forest work safer and accelerating the reforestation of large areas. Strunk explains, “Through active forest management, we can positively support climate change adaptations and create value for society.”

Key Areas of Focus at LIGNA 2025: Innovation, Safety, and Sustainability

The forestry section at LIGNA 2025 will highlight cutting-edge technology that accelerates sustainable reforestation efforts. Key themes will include modern large-scale forestry equipment, mobile sawmills, smart logistics, and secure transport systems. Innovations that prioritize resource efficiency, safety, and sustainability will be the primary focus of the event.

Pavilions 33 and 35 will serve as the central points for all things forestry at LIGNA 2025. Pavilion 33 will host organizations such as the Forestry Training Center of the Lower Saxony State Forests (NFBz), the German Forest Contractors Association (DFUV), and the PEFC certification system for sustainable forestry. Together, they will present the latest developments in forest management practices, tree felling technologies, and sustainable wood harvesting methods.

Technological Advancements in Forest Management

Among the technological innovations on display will be the use of remote-controlled wedges for safer tree felling, a critical step in minimizing risk for forestry workers. Strunk further discusses the importance of safety measures, pointing out that forestry remains one of the most hazardous professions, with tree felling accidents resulting in fatalities every year. “The use of technology is essential to minimize risks while ensuring that forestry work can meet the growing demand for reforestation and sustainable timber production,” he says.

Moreover, the introduction of cooling clothing and new sun protection methods will be explored to address health risks such as skin cancer, which is prevalent among forestry workers who spend long hours in open areas. Innovations like these are necessary for the industry’s ongoing focus on worker safety and well-being.

The Role of Education and Training in Sustainable Forestry

LIGNA 2025 will also emphasize the importance of education and training in shaping the future of forestry. The NFBz (Forestry Training Center of the Lower Saxony State Forests) will showcase its efforts to train the next generation of forestry professionals. From hands-on demonstrations to advanced forestry techniques, the NFBz focuses on equipping young people with the skills needed for sustainable forest management practices.

In addition, the Association of Forestry Contractors (AfL) and the Social Insurance for Agriculture, Forestry, and Horticulture (SVLFG) will collaborate on promoting safer working conditions and supporting the workforce’s development through educational programs and initiatives.

Circular Wood Use and New Raw Material Solutions

Pavilion 35 will showcase solutions for the circular use of wood as a raw material, featuring research on new hardwood and softwood species that are adaptable to changing climate conditions. Wald und Holz NRW, the Centre for Forestry and the Wood Industry, will present innovations in timber construction products, highlighting the growing demand for resource-efficient materials. “We’re looking forward to sharing our research on new wood applications and discussing the transformation of the forestry and wood sectors,” says Dr. Stefanie Wieland of Wald und Holz NRW.

A key focus of Pavilion 35 will be the sustainable use of wood, including the use of birch, red oak, and sweet chestnut in multi-storey timber construction and alternative tool technologies. Additionally, the exhibit will delve into material-saving timber construction products and the role of wood in advancing bioeconomy strategies.

Sustainability Through Traceability: The “Follow the Timber” Initiative

A special feature of LIGNA 2025 will be the “Follow the Timber” exhibition in Pavilion 35. This initiative will highlight innovations in the traceability of raw timber, demonstrating how digital technologies can track wood from the forest to the factory. The Kuratorium für Waldarbeit und Forsttechnik (KWF) will showcase its work on digital marketplaces and data systems that enhance transparency in wood supply chains, ensuring that materials are sourced sustainably and legally.

Celebrating Excellence in Forestry: Awards and Competitions

As part of the event’s celebrations, the Qualifizierungsfonds-Forstwirtschaft e.V. will present the prestigious “Hans-Jürgen-Narjes Prize” during a festive ceremony. This award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to training and education in the forestry sector. Additionally, the Forwarder Championship will highlight the skills of forestry workers as they compete in a series of challenges using large forestry machines.

Conclusion: A Future of Sustainable Forest Management

LIGNA 2025 promises to be a groundbreaking event, bringing together industry leaders, experts, and professionals to explore the future of sustainable forestry and timber production. With a focus on innovation, safety, and resource efficiency, the fair will help pave the way for a climate-friendly wood industry that meets the challenges of today and tomorrow. As the world continues to confront climate change, events like LIGNA 2025 will play a crucial role in shaping the future of our forests and the timber products we rely on.

Source: woodandpanel.com