The LignoSilva Centre of Excellence (CoE) has significantly advanced research capacity, infrastructure, and innovation in the forest-based bioeconomy. Its work focused on establishing governance, strengthening human resources, deploying cutting-edge infrastructure, and implementing demonstration cases to accelerate the transfer of scientific results into practice.
A critical achievement was the creation of a strong research base, with over 60 scientists from the National Forest Centre (NFC), the Pulp and Paper Research Institute (PPRI), and Fraunhofer WKI. The Job Catalogue, Mobility and Exchange Program facilitated recruitment, training, and international exchanges, while the CoE Internal Grant Agency supported early-career scientists through preparatory projects.
The project delivered key infrastructure, including a 3D Computer Tomography (CT) scanning line for non-destructive wood testing and an experimental incubator for special paper development. These flagship facilities are unique in Europe and worldwide: the CT scanner enables advanced virtual wood grading, while the incubator supports innovation in multifunctional papers. Additionally, the Open Bank of 3D Scans of Wood Logs was established, providing FAIR-compliant access to datasets for researchers globally.
The backbone of knowledge transfer was the implementation of eight demonstration cases (DCs):
DC01 (ForScan) developed advanced 3D forest inventory and assortment workflows using LiDAR and radar scanning.
DC02 (Sawmill 4.0) applied 3D CT scanning for wood grading and cutting optimisation.
DC03 (WoodFlow) tested RFID-based digital traceability, increasing transparency in wood supply chains.
DC04 (Smart Paper Production) combined real-time sensors, neural networks, and spectrometry to optimise energy and quality in papermaking.
DC05 (WoodRec) prepared models and guidelines for waste wood recovery and contaminant analysis.
DC06–07 (WasteUse & Agroforestry) trialled nutrient recycling of cellulose sludge and wood ash, showing promising soil and plant growth impacts, with multiple scientific publications.
DC08 (WoodPests) launched an open-access pest monitoring platform with 228 species and 10,000 images.
Scientific outputs included peer-reviewed publications, conference papers, patents, and collaborations with industry partners such as WiseWerk. The CoE also strengthened European integration by working with Fraunhofer WKI, engaging in BIOEAST, and contributing to the Forest-based Technology Platform, ensuring results support EU bioeconomy and Green Deal objectives.
Dissemination and communication activities were extensive. A new website and social media channels were created, alongside systematic outreach through conferences, workshops, exhibitions, and the CoE Open Day. Media partnerships with national TV and specialised journals amplified visibility. Exploitation efforts focused on building business and IPR strategies, ensuring innovations move towards market uptake and industrial application.
In sum, LignoSilva has established an interdisciplinary and innovation-driven environment that combines advanced infrastructure, applied research, and strong stakeholder engagement. Its achievements in digitalisation, recycling technologies, sustainable agroforestry, and novel paper development highlight its potential to serve as a regional hub of excellence, strengthening European scientific leadership and competitiveness in the bioeconomy
