Traceability Could Unlock the Full Value of Forests
The forestry industry is facing increasing pressure to meet stricter sustainability requirements and utilize resources efficiently. However, Claes Otterbeck of L.O.A.B. notes that many sawmills still lack complete control over how to best process each log.
“With modern traceability, it’s possible to use less forest to create greater value,” says Otterbeck.
While forest raw materials are valuable, the journey from forest to finished wood product is often riddled with information gaps. Otterbeck explains that sawmills and processors don’t always know which raw material will yield the highest return in the right stage of production.
“We have long worked to increase precision in the industry’s production flows and are now seeing how technology opens up entirely new possibilities. It’s fundamentally about making the best use of every tree. With the right traceability and precise manufacturing techniques, the industry can utilize raw materials more intelligently while reducing the need for logging,” he says.
Following the Log Through the Entire Process
Traceability technology has been around for a while, but advancements in data analysis, camera technology, and machine learning now allow each log to be tracked throughout the entire process. Otterbeck emphasizes that this information not only creates transparency but also enables decisions that can directly increase profitability.
“It’s clear that customers’ working methods have changed: when they see exactly which log is suitable for which product, the processes become both faster and significantly more accurate. The result is higher value per cubic meter, less waste, and better planning,” he says. However, he also stresses that challenges always accompany the integration of new technology – but the willingness is there.
“Those who have already invested in advanced measuring stations and traceability solutions have quickly seen the effect on margins and raw material usage. It’s therefore not just a matter of technology, but of mindset. Customers want to do the right thing, both for their wallets and for the forest.”
Strengthening the Industry’s Legitimacy
By combining analysis tools, modern machine technology, and knowledge of the wood’s natural variations, Otterbeck explains that a flow is created where the best from each log is utilized. This also strengthens the industry’s legitimacy in the transition to more bio-based materials.
“The better we utilize the raw material, the less forest we need to use, and that allows us to create more value on the bottom line,” he concludes.
About L.O.A.B.
L.O.A.B. was founded in 1987 to market leading foreign machine suppliers to the wood products industry in the Nordic region. The company works with machines in sawmills and further processing and consists of two companies: one for machines and one for supplies, wear parts and timber irrigation.
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