March 28th, 2025
Wood Innovation: Empowering Communities, Strengthening Economies, and Protecting Our Planet
At #forestproud, we believe that innovation in wood products has the power to shape a brighter, more sustainable future for our communities, economy, and planet. The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Wood Innovation Program plays a pivotal role in aiding these projects that not only drive new market opportunities but also create jobs, educate the next generation, and contribute to environmental stewardship. #forestproud is partnered with the Wood Innovation Grant Program to amplify the message of sustainable forest management for the production and potential of innovative wood products to help people and the planet. We’re telling success stories, documenting real impact, and connecting the sector to those beyond the world of forestry about the value of forests as forests.
The Role of Wood Innovation in Today’s World
Wood is more than just a building material—it's a symbol of sustainability and a cornerstone for a strong economy. Thanks to innovative advances in wood technology, we're seeing a shift toward using wood products in new and exciting ways. From cross-laminated timber (CLT) to bio-based materials, these innovations are transforming the construction, manufacturing, and energy sectors.
The USFS Wood Innovation Program is helping accelerate this transformation. By providing funding, resources, and technical expertise, the program supports the development of new wood products, processes, and markets that benefit communities across the country. Since its inception, the program has helped foster a robust market for wood products while creating jobs in rural and underserved areas, thus supporting local economies.
Education and Training for the Future
Innovation in wood products goes hand-in-hand with education. The USFS Wood Innovation Program ensures that future leaders in the industry are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to push the boundaries of what’s possible with wood. By partnering with universities and research institutions, the program helps foster research that will shape the future of wood products.
For example, the University of Washington’s Integrated Design Lab, supported by Wood Innovation funding, collaborates with architects and engineers to explore how wood can be used in multi-story buildings, reducing carbon footprints and construction costs. The educational programs and research initiatives supported by the Wood Innovation Program are creating a pipeline of talent for the growing wood innovation sector.
Supporting Sustainable Communities and the Planet
Wood innovation doesn’t just benefit businesses—it also contributes to sustainability and environmental resilience. Using wood as a substitute for more energy-intensive materials like concrete and steel can help reduce pollution.
In communities like those in the Appalachian region, where sustainable forestry practices have been implemented through Wood Innovation projects, there is a renewed focus on managing forests in ways that protect biodiversity while providing jobs and ecosystem services. This approach strengthens local economies, ensures the long-term health of forests, and helps the planet.
A Growing Market for Wood Products
The market for wood-based products continues to expand. This year, #forestproud is working with the Wood Innovations Program and its grant awardees and partners on several powerful features depicting how real-world solutions are solving major issues. One project has us working closely with several states in New England that have incorporated wood fuel (also called bioenergy) into their energy processes for communities. Another project takes a look at how a breakout business is changing the game of housing construction with sustainable wood products for new and renovated homes. We follow Northern Forest Center as they take a historical home, pair it with TimberHP’s wood-based insulation product, and local wood crafters to return a home to its original beauty and solve a housing need for local residents. That’s not all – we'll be documenting and telling stories all year about the power of wood being used in unique and genius ways that give back to people and planet.
