The third episode of Branching out: the forest podcast is out! In line with the IUFRO 2024 World Congress theme “Towards a responsible forest bioeconomy“, the podcast hosts and their guests venture into responsible forest bioeconomy and listen to how forest bioeconomy contributes to sequestering carbon, mitigating climate change, creating jobs and developing rural areas.
José Bolaños, IUFRO Headquarters, and co-host Ida Wallin from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) discuss with IUFRO scientists from different regions of the world activities and strategies centered around sustainable forest management and the utilization of forest resources.
Anne Toppinen from the University of Helsinki, Finland, joins the conversation to shed light on some innovative and surprising applications such as medical casts made of wood chips and awe-inspiring architectural designs. She also emphasizes the need to accelerate change, particularly in increasing the market share of new forest-based products. Anne Toppinen will be a keynote speaker at the IUFRO World Congress in Stockholm, Sweden, in June 2024!
Nellie Mugure Oduor from the Kenya Forestry Research Institute shares captivating examples of forest bioeconomy activities, such as biomass energy, derived from fuelwood for tea processing and cooking. Also, initiatives focused on fruit trees and indigenous fruit processing not only generate income but also encourage sustainable tree farming and support local livelihoods.
Verónica Loewe-Muñoz from the Chilean Forest Institute (INFOR) paints a vivid picture of non-timber forest products (NTFPs). From the famed açaí in Brazil to the valuable Brazil nuts, the region boasts a diverse range of forest resources. These products contribute significantly to local economies and provide employment opportunities.
Jinlong Liu from the Renmin University of China describes the path that leverages the full potential of forests, from traditional wood products to innovative solutions, all while nurturing resilient communities and safeguarding our planet.
Tune in to Branching Out: The Forest Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts or visit our website to access this episode. And don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join us on this podcasting adventure.
