LSIWC Researchers Participate in the World’s Largest Biomass Conference – EUBCE 2026

From 19 to 22 May, researchers from the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LSIWC) participated in the 34th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition (EUBCE 2026) in The Hague, the Netherlands. The event is the world’s largest forum dedicated to biomass and the bioeconomy, bringing together more than 1,500 researchers, industry representatives, policymakers, and other experts from 80 countries.

The Institute was represented by six researchers: Leading Researcher Dr. Jānis Rižikovs, Researcher Dr. Sanita Vītoliņa, Researchers Dr. Oskars Bikovens, Rūdolfs Bērziņš, and Matīss Pāls, as well as Scientific Assistant Ksenija Radovska.

In total, LSIWC researchers presented six studies highlighting the Institute’s expertise in the sustainable utilisation and processing of wood and other biomass resources.

Several presentations focused on the high-value utilisation of birch bark. Jānis Rižikovs presented research on the use of birch bark suberinic acids for the development of polyurethane polyols within the SAMPUR project and on the optimisation of lignin-based resins for high-pressure laminates within the VIOBOND project. He also chaired a thematic session on biomass pretreatment technologies for the development of innovative products.

“EUBCE 2026 provided valuable insights into the latest developments in bioenergy, bioproducts, and the circular bioeconomy. The conference particularly highlighted the strong connection between science, industry, and policymaking, which is essential for bringing innovations to market and supporting sustainable development,” said Jānis Rižikovs.

Sanita Vītoliņa and Rūdolfs Bērziņš presented research on the use of birch bark extracts in cosmetic emulsions, demonstrating the potential of natural alternatives to replace synthetic stabilisers. The studies were carried out within an ERDF-funded project in collaboration with Latvijas Finieris and Labrains.

Matīss Pāls presented research on the use of tree bark extracts as bio-based crosslinking agents for improving the properties of gelatin films. Oskars Bikovens introduced a study on chemical transformations in mycelium biocomposites, which attracted considerable interest among conference participants.

Ksenija Radovska presented research on the potential use of green walnut husk extracts for the development of sustainable bioherbicides.

Participation in EUBCE 2026 provided an excellent opportunity to showcase the achievements of Latvian researchers to an international audience, strengthen cooperation with foreign research organisations and companies, and gain valuable insights into the latest advances in bioeconomy and biomass processing.