{"id":1217,"date":"2025-04-29T19:46:00","date_gmt":"2025-04-29T16:46:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/lv\/?p=1217"},"modified":"2026-04-12T17:53:54","modified_gmt":"2026-04-12T14:53:54","slug":"projekts-18-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/projekts-18-2\/","title":{"rendered":"XVIII PROJECT"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&nbsp;<strong>\u2018\u2019Innovation in forestry biomass residue processing: towards circular forestry with added value products \u2013 Ceforestry\u2019\u2019<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1009\" height=\"148\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/ceforesty.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1182\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/ceforesty.png 1009w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/ceforesty-300x44.png 300w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/ceforesty-768x113.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1009px) 100vw, 1009px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Significant amounts of unused forestry biomass \u2014 including bark, needles, cones, and other materials \u2014 are accumulating across the Baltic Sea region. While countries in the region employ various methods to process these residual resources, the level of technological development and innovation varies considerably between states. Currently, forestry by-products are predominantly used for the production of lower value-added outputs, such as bioenergy. However, forestry biomass has far greater potential: it can serve as a raw material for recovering high-value components and ingredients with a broad range of industrial and commercial applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The primary goal of the CEforestry project is to develop new, innovative solutions based on circular economy principles for the biorefining of forestry residues. This will be achieved by fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration among countries and stakeholders in the Baltic Sea region \u2014 including entrepreneurs, research institutions, and forestry experts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The solutions developed within the project will be tested and demonstrated at a pilot scale, accompanied by the creation of a bioeconomy-driven circular business model. This model will help entrepreneurs navigate the transition toward sustainable innovation, supporting the development of new, value-added products derived from forestry biomass residues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Project Information<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Official project website<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/interreg-baltic.eu\/project\/ceforestry-interreg-baltic-sea-region\/\">https:\/\/interreg-baltic.eu\/project\/ceforestry-interreg-baltic-sea-region\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Project duration<\/strong>: 03\/2023 \u2013 02\/2026<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lead Partner<\/strong>: Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (Sweden)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Project Main Coordinator<\/strong>: Mehrdad Arshadi (mehrdad.arshadi@slu.se)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>University of Latvia Coordinator<\/strong>: Linards Klavins (linards.klavins@lu.lv)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Project Partners:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Kaunas University of Technology (Lithuania)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Centria University of Applied Sciences (Finland)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mineral and Energy Economy Research Institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences (Poland)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Natural Resources Institute Finland (Finland)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>JSC Biolat (Latvia)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bimala Ltd. (Lithuania)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Umea University (Sweden)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>University of Latvia (Latvia)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Finnish Forest Centre (Finland)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aalto University (Finland)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>GreenBack Ltd. (Poland)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Funding<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Total budget<\/strong>: \u20ac2.36 million<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>European Regional Development Fund contribution<\/strong>: \u20ac1.89 million<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The CEforestry project (Project ID: #C023) is co-financed by the <strong>European Union&#8217;s Interreg Baltic Sea Region Programme 2021\u20132027<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Biolat-CEforestry-prezentacija.pdf\">You can download project presentation here<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/CEforestry_brochure.pdf\">You can download project brochure here<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Powering Green Innovation with Forest Biomass: CEforestry Unlocks Bioeconomy Potential<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-top\" style=\"grid-template-columns:28% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"332\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Forest_lungs-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1244 size-medium\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Forest_lungs-1.jpg 332w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Forest_lungs-1-249x300.jpg 249w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 332px) 100vw, 332px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p><strong>Forests are not only the lungs of our planet \u2014 they are also the foundation of tomorrow&#8217;s green innovations.<\/strong><br>The CEforestry project, led by Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Biolat, as one of the projet partners, is at the forefront of developing a resilient, circular bioeconomy by transforming forestry residues into high-value products<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What is CEforestry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>CEforestry is an international initiative focused on the sustainable use of forest biomass and the development of the green bioeconomy.<br>By researching biorefinery technologies and circular business models, CEforestry seeks to turn side streams like bark, sawdust, and conifer needles into valuable, eco-friendly materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Learn more: <a href=\"https:\/\/interreg-baltic.eu\/project\/ceforestry\/\">https:\/\/interreg-baltic.eu\/project\/ceforestry\/<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>New Insights: Forestry Residues as Market Drivers<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-top\" style=\"grid-template-columns:31% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"256\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Infograph_1-300x256.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1223 size-medium\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Infograph_1-300x256.jpg 300w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Infograph_1.jpg 653w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>The latest CEforestry market research highlights rapidly growing opportunities in sectors such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cosmetics &amp; Pharmaceuticals<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Functional foods &amp; Nutraceuticals<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bio-based chemicals &amp; Green adhesives<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Consumers are increasingly seeking natural, sustainable products &#8211; and ingredients derived from forest biomass, such as tannins, are now in demand for use in biocides, adhesives, antioxidants, and more. Through integrated biorefineries, forestry residues can be processed in cascading steps: first extracting valuable compounds, and then utilizing the remaining biomass for energy or soil enhancement. This circular approach maximizes resource use while minimizing waste &#8211; a key principle of the European Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>How You Can Get Involved<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), research institute, or forest sector expert?<br><strong>CEforestry invites you to become part of its dynamic network!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Participation benefits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Access to cutting-edge research on forest biomass utilization.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Opportunities to engage in seminars, webinars, and expert discussions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Networking with innovative businesses and organizations across the Baltic Sea region.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Be a part of shaping a greener, more resilient future!<\/strong><br>Explore project opportunities and contact us on <a href=\"https:\/\/interreg-baltic.eu\/project\/ceforestry\/\">https:\/\/interreg-baltic.eu\/project\/ceforestry\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Shaping a Climate-Smart Future<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Through the CEforestry project, the Nordic and Baltic regions can lead Europe in the transition to a <strong>climate-smart, resource-efficient bioeconomy<\/strong>.<br>By elevating forest residues from waste to sustainable assets, we can drive economic growth while preserving natural ecosystems for generations to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"352\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Infograph_2-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1245\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Infograph_2-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Infograph_2-1-300x132.jpg 300w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Infograph_2-1-768x338.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Join the movement \u2014 together we can build the future of green innovation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-top\" style=\"grid-template-columns:29% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image1-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1266 size-full\"\/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>On June 3\u20134, 2025, Biolat participated in the CEforestry partner workshop held at Aalto University in Espoo and the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress in Helsinki, Finland. The workshop gathered project partners from across the Baltic Sea region to exchange knowledge and share updates on CEforestry project activities, results, and strategic developments in circular forestry and the valorization of forest biomass residues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Biolat\u2019s own Ilona Vanaga took the stage and brought the forest to life (metaphorically, of course) with an engaging update on the project\u2019s progress. She walked everyone through the curious world of forest biomass residues showing how bark and needles can become much more than just compost. From nutraceuticals that help you glow from the inside out to natural adhesives that stick around, Biolat\u2019s presentation uncovered just how much untapped potential the forest still holds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-top\" style=\"grid-template-columns:auto 29%\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p>The workshop featured presentations from many partners, including Aalto University, the University of Latvia, Centria University of Applied Sciences, and the Natural Resources Institute Finland. Key outcomes included research insights into forestry by-products and discussions on future collaboration opportunities, such as joint research on tannins.<br><br>Biolat\u2019s involvement in the CEforestry workshop strengthened its role in the bioeconomy innovation ecosystem, expanded valuable networks, and reinforced its contribution to advancing a sustainable circular forest economy in the Baltic region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><br><\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image2-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1265 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image2-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image2-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image2-1152x1536.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/image2.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Biolat at the LIFE-IP LatViaNature International Conference<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Together for Nature: Merging Public and Private Efforts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Dates:<\/strong> 25\u201326 September 2025 \u2022 <strong>Venue:<\/strong> University of Latvia, House of Nature, Riga<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hosted at the <strong>House of Nature<\/strong> in Riga, Latvia the conference convened EU and national leaders, landowners, NGOs, and companies to align policy, finance, and practical restoration &#8211; exactly where Biolat operates: at the intersection of science, markets, and biodiversity outcomes. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"644\" height=\"486\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/konference1png.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1291\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/konference1png.png 644w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/konference1png-300x226.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 644px) 100vw, 644px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>On <strong>Day 1<\/strong>, Representing JSC \u201cBiolat\u201d Ilona Vanaga presented a poster \u201cFrom Forest Side Streams to Market Value: Biolat\u2019s Ceforestry Experience in Circular Bioeconomy\u201d highlighting how valorisation of forest sidestreams and nature-derived actives can (1) reduce waste, (2) diversify rural income, and (3) connect SMEs with credible science for product development. Her discussions with participants from LIFE projects and national agencies centered on <strong>de-risking private investment<\/strong> (through clear standards and data), <strong>responsible sourcing from managed landscapes<\/strong>, and <strong>storytelling that translates research into buyer value<\/strong>. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Themes we engaged with.<\/strong> Day-one sessions emphasized three levers Biolat champions in practice:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Incentivizing private landowners<\/strong> via grants, results-based schemes, and credits to make conservation investable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Volunteer contributions<\/strong> that scale monitoring and habitat work while building public support.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stakeholder engagement &amp; communication<\/strong> &#8211; from landowner helpdesks to integrated campaigns that move people from awareness to action. &nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Takeaways for our community.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Policy &amp; markets are converging:<\/strong> new finance instruments and landowner programmes are expanding &#8211; creating a clearer route for nature-positive businesses to grow. &nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Partnerships win:<\/strong> cross-sector projects (public + private + NGOs) are delivering measurable results and faster learning cycles &#8211; an approach Biolat actively supports. &nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Communication is a capability:<\/strong> engaging landowners, SMEs and citizens with simple, actionable messages is essential for long-term restoration success. &nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>\u201c<strong>LatViaNature<\/strong> showed how policy, science and enterprise can pull in the same direction. Our poster sparked great conversations on turning sustainable raw materials into trusted products that reward land stewards.\u201d \u2013 Ilona Vanaga, Biolat<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"519\" height=\"247\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kopbilde.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kopbilde.png 519w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/kopbilde-300x143.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 519px) 100vw, 519px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div style=\"height:27px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Biolat at the 5th International Conference \u201cOld-growth forests: policy and practice\u201d<br>Dates: 16\u201317 October 2025 \u2022 Location: Jaunkalsnava, Latvia (LVMI Silava &amp; field sites)<\/strong><br>Organizers: Latvian State Forest Research Institute \u201cSilava\u201d, in cooperation<br>with IUFRO; supported by the Latvian Academy of Agricultural and Forestry<br>Sciences and the Forest Research Station.<br>Old-growth forests are critical reservoirs of biodiversity and carbon, yet national approaches<br>to delineation, protection and monitoring still vary. This year\u2019s meeting focused on the role<br>of old-growth in biodiversity maintenance and on comparing diverging approaches<br>through case studies from multiple countries.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"578\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/konference.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1295\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/konference.png 578w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/konference-300x130.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 578px) 100vw, 578px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Programme highlights.Day 1 combined plenaries and thematic talks, including the keynote<br>\u201cA global perspective on temperate old-growth forest ecology, conservation, and<br>restoration\u201d by Prof. William S. Keeton, and sessions on criteria for identifying high-value<br>forests, geospatial methods for mapping conservation value, long-term biomass change in<br>old-growth stands, and public-sector perspectives on improving EU forest habitats. The day<br>also hosted a poster session and networking opportunities. Day 2 moved outdoors with a<br>guided field visit to long-term research sites and restoration areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"723\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Old_confer_Biolat_IVanaga_poster_update-723x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Old_confer_Biolat_IVanaga_poster_update-723x1024.jpg 723w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Old_confer_Biolat_IVanaga_poster_update-212x300.jpg 212w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Old_confer_Biolat_IVanaga_poster_update-768x1087.jpg 768w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Old_confer_Biolat_IVanaga_poster_update-1085x1536.jpg 1085w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Old_confer_Biolat_IVanaga_poster_update-1447x2048.jpg 1447w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Old_confer_Biolat_IVanaga_poster_update-scaled.jpg 1809w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 723px) 100vw, 723px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Biolat\u2019s participation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Partnerships win: public agencies, research institutes and companies collaborating at landscape scale can deliver biodiversity gains while developing sustainable biobased markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Presenter: Ilona Vanaga (Day 1) &#8211; poster presentation and discussions with researchers and decision-makers on integrating side-stream valorisation and market mechanisms with conservation goals (e.g., funding pathways, standards, traceability).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Engagement: exchanges on how science-based product value chains(cosmetics, nutraceuticals, bio-based materials) can support landscape-level outcomes when aligned with biodiversity safeguards and monitoring frameworks.<br>Takeaways for our community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Policy \u2194 practice linkage: monitoring and classification criteria are rapidly improving; this enables clearer protection and restoration targets that enterprises can support through certified, traceable sourcing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Evidence travels: from remote sensing to plot-level studies, geospatial + long-term datasets are shaping practical decisions on where and how to protect high-value stands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"764\" height=\"700\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1303\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.0914397698369678;width:336px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat2.jpg 764w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat2-300x275.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 764px) 100vw, 764px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CEforestry final event highlights<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>ADVANCING CIRCULAR INNOVATION FROM FOREST SIDE STREAMS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The CEforestry project held its final event in Uppsala, Sweden on <strong>19\u201321 November 2025<\/strong>, bringing together project partners, industry representatives, researchers, SMEs and public-sector stakeholders to explore how forest side streams: bark, needles, sawdust and other residues, can be transformed into high-value bio-based products. Over three days, 50 participants took part in thematic sessions, discussions and excursions focused on circular bioeconomy opportunities across the Baltic Sea Region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Biolat participated actively throughout the event, including delivering a dedicated presentation <em>\u201cFrom forest side streams to market value: Biolat\u2019s CEforestry experience\u201d<\/em> and moderating the session on Stakeholders and Target Groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat3-1024x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1304\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat3-1024x225.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat3-300x66.jpg 300w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat3-768x169.jpg 768w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat3.jpg 1429w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Biolat\u2019s Contribution: from biomass to high-value ingredients<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In her presentation, Ilona Vanaga highlighted Biolat\u2019s three decades of experience in extracting natural bioactives from conifers and the company\u2019s work within CEforestry to demonstrate how forestry residues can be converted into cosmetics, nutraceutical, biopharmaceutical and industrial ingredients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Biolat_CEforestry_final_event_workshop_19-11-2025.pdf\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Biolat_CEforestry_final_event_workshop_19-11-2025.pdf\">Presentation<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Strong Resource Potential<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sawmill residues across the region amount to more than <strong>3.7 billion kg of bark and sawdust annually<\/strong>, making large-scale extraction a technically and economically viable pathway. At only 4% extraction yield, this could deliver <strong>~59 million kg of tannins per year<\/strong>, unlocking significant market opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Benefits of Co-Located Biorefinery Models<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Biolat\u2019s analysis shows that integrating extraction facilities near sawmills can cut logistics emissions by up to <strong>80%<\/strong>, create <strong>5\u201310 new jobs per 10,000 tonnes processed<\/strong>, and lower operational costs\u2014supporting rural development and circularity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Market Pull for Natural Alternatives<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The strongest commercial demand is currently in <strong>cosmetics and food supplements<\/strong>, where consumers increasingly prefer natural, sustainable, circular ingredients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CEforestry Achievements<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Biolat\u2019s project tasks included market mapping, value-chain analysis, development of business concepts, and preparation of dissemination materials, such as scientific posters, case studies and commercialization roadmaps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Session Highlights: Stakeholders &amp; Target Groups<\/strong><strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Moderated by Ilona Vanaga (Biolat)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The session showcased real-world examples of how forest residues can become new ingredients and solutions for multiple industries. Speakers covered:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Alternatives for chemical and cosmetics industries<\/strong> through birch-bark-based ingredients (Sami Selk\u00e4l\u00e4, Innomost).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Biocide management in the pulp &amp; paper sector<\/strong> and opportunities for bio-based antimicrobials (Olof \u00d6gren).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bark-based tanning agents<\/strong> bridging tradition and innovation (Ann-Sofie Fonsen).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Bio-based tannins in traditional leather tanning<\/strong>, highlighting cultural and ecological dimensions (Hanna Nore).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Various discussions, interactive questions, and reflections were facilitated, creating a strong link between technological innovation, market demand and traditional knowledge. The session clearly illustrated that side streams are not waste but <strong>underused resources with significant commercial and environmental potential<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key Insights &amp; Lessons Learned<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Circular forestry requires collaboration across the value chain<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From forest owners and mills to SMEs and research institutions, the event demonstrated that cooperation is essential to scale up circular solutions. CEforestry successfully created such a cross-sector platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Side streams can support both nature protection and rural development<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Using what is already cut reduces pressure for additional harvesting and enables new income streams for local industries.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Market opportunities are real and growing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Biolat\u2019s market analysis shows a <strong>6.3% annual growth<\/strong> in biomass-based products, with strong pull from cosmetics, nutraceuticals and specialty chemicals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. SMEs Need Practical Tools to Commercialise New Ingredients<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The project distilled practical guidance for small companies, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>partner early,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>make ingredient specifications clear and usable,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>invest in greener extraction,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>start with focused, certifiable product concepts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5. Policy and investment frameworks must evolve<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To fully unlock the potential of side streams, stakeholders emphasized the need for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>streamlined regulation,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>harmonised certifications,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>blended finance models,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>risk-sharing mechanisms for scale-up.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6. Traditional knowledge enriches modern innovation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Several speakers reminded the audience that sustainable materials are not only about chemistry, they also carry heritage, culture and identity. This human dimension strengthens consumer acceptance and storytelling potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Looking forward: after CEforestry<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Building on CEforestry, the Baltic Sea Region now has a stronger foundation for developing new bio-based products and investing in circular extraction technologies. Future priorities include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>expanding market-led product development,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>continuing knowledge transfer across the region,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>strengthening intermediate processing and scaling capacity,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>and supporting policy frameworks that recognize residues as strategic resources.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"767\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat4-767x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1301\" style=\"aspect-ratio:0.7490277752179443;width:378px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat4-767x1024.jpg 767w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat4-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat4-768x1025.jpg 768w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat4.jpg 867w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 767px) 100vw, 767px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat5.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1302\" style=\"width:487px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat5.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat5-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/biolat5-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>#CEforestry #Biolat #Sustainability #Bioeconomy #GreenInnovation #CircularEconomy #ForestInnovation #ClimateSmart #EcoFriendly #GreenBusiness #SustainableFuture<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>CEforestry project finale (2023\u20132026): from forest leftovers to real value<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After three years of collaboration across the Baltic Sea Region, in March 2026 CEforestry has<br>come to an end, and it leaves a clear message: forest side streams (like bark, needles and sawdust) are not \u201cwaste\u201d, but a resource for new, nature-positive products and solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"572\" height=\"319\" src=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/project.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1312\" srcset=\"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/project.png 572w, https:\/\/biolat.lv\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/project-300x167.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 572px) 100vw, 572px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Together with research and industry partners, the project tested and demonstrated practical pathways, from antimicrobial spruce bark extracts for wastewater and paper\/pulp systems to tannin extraction concepts and circular business models.<br>We also helped make the opportunity easier to see and use in practice, including open tools and guidance that support decision-making for companies and public actors.<br>Explore all our public solutions and reports on the official CEforestry webpage: https:\/\/interreg-baltic.eu\/project\/ceforestry\/<br>Questions or ideas for follow-up cooperation? Contact our project coordinator: ilona.vanaga@biolat.lv<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp;\u2018\u2019Innovation in forestry biomass residue processing: towards circular forestry with added value products \u2013 Ceforestry\u2019\u2019 Significant amounts of unused forestry biomass \u2014 including bark, needles, cones, and other materials \u2014 are accumulating across the Baltic Sea region. While countries in the region employ various methods to process these residual resources, the level of technological development [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"quote","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[49],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1217","post","type-post","status-publish","format-quote","hentry","category-projekti-eng","post_format-post-format-quote"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1217","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1217"}],"version-history":[{"count":38,"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1217\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1315,"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1217\/revisions\/1315"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1217"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1217"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/biolat.lv\/en_GB\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1217"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}