LSIWC Researchers at “Zābaki”: A Synergy of Science and Forestry
On May 29, 2025, a significant milestone for Latvia’s forestry sector and sustainable construction was celebrated at the “Zābaki” estate in Sigulda Municipality – the opening of an innovative wooden building complex. Its centerpiece is Latvia’s first and the Baltics’ only wooden construction solution of its kind: a plant cooler designed with specialized microclimate regimes. Among the guests were our leading researchers, Dr.sc.ing. Jānis Rižikovs and Dr.sc.ing. Aigars Pāže.
A partnership that supports and transforms the industry
The collaboration between the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry and Latvijas Finieris is no coincidence – it is grounded in science, long-term thinking, and a shared vision. This partnership has made possible the launch of a unique lignin resin plant, the first of its kind in Europe. Meanwhile, at the “Zābaki” event, Aigars Pāže symbolically returned to his research roots – the active compound betulin found in birch bark. Under his leadership, the first studies in Latvia on the extraction and application of betulin were carried out, which have now evolved into a pilot project and a sustainable collaboration with Latvijas Finieris.
“Zābaki” – a place where wood breathes
The new building complex at “Zābaki” is more than just an engineering innovation – it is a knowledge platform where scientists, builders, foresters, and policymakers can meet. As emphasized during the opening ceremony by Jānis Ciems, Chairman of the Board of Latvijas Finieris:
“The "Zābaki" nursery is part of our commitment to nurture and develop Latvia’s fertile land and forests. We combine scientific excellence with practical and sustainable forestry, ensuring high-quality birch and alder seedlings.
Here, every seed and seedling is cared for with responsibility, knowledge, and a forward-looking perspective.
"Zābaki" is a platform where students, pupils, policymakers, cooperation partners, and members of the public can deepen their understanding of responsible land use, forestry, and the value of wood. Every visitor is greeted by the inscription ‘We are building a tidy, independent and prosperous Latvia’ – a motto that reminds us of our shared responsibility for our country’s future.”
In this context, Dr. Rižikovs and Dr. Pāže embody the synergy between science and industry. Their research on lignin, suberin, and betulin creates an opportunity for Latvia to become a European leader in bioresource innovation. This kind of transfer – from laboratory to production – is the most effective response to the challenges of our time.
Science in the landscape
The “Zābaki” wooden building complex is more than just innovative architecture in Gauja National Park. It is a living laboratory where researchers will observe the durability of wood under real microclimatic conditions, analyzing the effects of moisture, heat, and ventilation on solid wood structures. It becomes a natural part of the broader research ecosystem.
The presence of LSIWC’s leading researchers at this opening symbolizes not only a close partnership with Latvijas Finieris, but also the strategic decision by industry leaders to move toward a greener, more independent, and cleaner future.
