LSIWC scientists featured on the podcast “The Century of Wood”: Birch Bark as a Foundation for Green Industry

Researchers from the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry, Dr.sc.ing. Jānis Rižikovs and Dr.sc.ing. Aigars Pāže, appeared on the podcast “Koksnes gadsimts” (The Century of Wood) to discuss how birch bark is becoming the basis for new high value-added products in biotechnology, construction materials, and health-related sectors.

The wood biorefining research developed at LSIWC for more than 15 years is rooted in circular bioeconomy principles – maximizing the use of resources and minimizing waste. Using the natural compounds found in birch bark, the institute’s scientists have developed solutions that can replace synthetic and environmentally harmful raw materials.

One of the key directions is the extraction and application of betulin, a biologically active compound used in dietary supplements and dermatological preparations. Another is the use of suberin, a natural polymer, in the development of health- and environment-friendly binders and coatings.

In the podcast, Jānis and Aigars explain how the formaldehyde-free binder, based on suberic acids from birch bark, is currently being tested at an industrial scale. It has the potential to replace traditional synthetic adhesives, which can pose health risks with prolonged use. This technology offers important benefits for the furniture, packaging, and construction industries.

According to the researchers, Latvia's available resources – such as by-products from birch bark processing – combined with strong scientific expertise, form a solid foundation for innovation. In cooperation with companies like Latvijas Finieris, the first industrial solutions using lignin and birch bark-derived products have already been implemented.

The researchers also emphasize that for innovations to be more widely adopted in industry, reliable raw material availability and targeted state support mechanisms, such as tax incentives for companies collaborating with scientists, are essential.

The podcast also highlights the institute's vision of Latvia’s potential to become a Northern European leader in bioeconomy, leveraging local resources, innovative technologies, and international scientific cooperation.

We invite you to listen to the full episode of “The Century of Wood” - Koksnes gadsimts - to discover the hidden potential of birch bark and the contribution of Latvian scientists to the future of green industry.