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Residuals Management

From the forests to our facilities, Canfor is committed to maximizing the value of every harvested tree. We do so by exploring opportunities to leverage all viable residuals, both in traditional ways such as producing pellets and specialty lumber and helping to enrich the forest floors as well as non-traditional ways such as producing biofuels and conducting bio-innovation.

    Maximizing the Potential of Every Single Tree

    Our approach to managing residuals includes practices such as leaving enough behind to enrich the forest floor and support wildlife habitats as well as finding innovative and economically viable uses for other residual materials.

    As demand for low-carbon alternatives to fossil fuels increases, we are also undertaking several proof-of-concept projects through our Bio-Innovation team and our joint venture, Arbios Biotech.

    Sources of Residuals

    Canfor’s residuals are derived from three primary sources and then repurposed to create a number of beneficial byproducts.

    01

    Residuals from the Forest

    We strive to use the remaining forest residual fibre while considering economic feasibility and the specific management objectives of the woodlot site.

    02

    Residuals from the Sawmills

    Our sawmill manufacturing facilities primarily produce finished lumber and generate process residuals. Biomass is used in our energy systems, to create steam for electricity by our pulp mills or sold to third parties. Chips are used by our pulp mills or sold externally to make other products. Our sawdust, shavings and trim blocks are also made into other products.

    03

    Residuals from the Pulp Mills

    Pulp operations are consumers of residual fibre products but also generate residual by-product streams from the pulp manufacturing and production process. Our pulp mills use chips to make pulp and specialty paper products and their operations rely mainly on biomass to generate a significant amount of renewable energy.

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