Fiji’s timber industry is poised for innovation with the potential to create new products that can be utilized in specialty joinery and furniture manufacturing, while also exploring lucrative export opportunities. Minister for Forests Alitia Bainivalu highlighted the ongoing research concerning the utilization of senile coconut stems as part of a project centered on “Coconut and other non-traditional forest resources for the manufacture of engineered wood products.”
This five-year initiative aims to validate and deliver advanced wood processing technologies that can convert coconut and other low-value forest resources into high-value engineered wood products for both local and global markets. Bainivalu noted that a major challenge lies in the forest industry’s willingness to invest in and quickly adopt these new technologies, given their established practices with conventional timber species.
To overcome this hurdle, the project is actively engaging with the private sector in Vanua Levu. Hyoulin Sawmill Fiji Ltd, a subsidiary of Long Investment Ltd, has partnered with the project and has recently developed a steam box to facilitate the heat conditioning of coconut and other non-traditional forest resources, preparing them for veneer processing.
Preliminary testing has been successful, paving the way for further exploration into the commercial viability of senile coconut stem processing. The team is also researching the use of lower-grade mahogany from Fiji Hardwood Corporation as a core material. Furthermore, the development of a financial modeling tool is set to aid stakeholders in the value chain, particularly plywood producers, by clarifying profitability avenues.
Bainivalu mentioned that Valebasoga Tropikboards, a plywood processor based in Labasa, has expressed interest in participating in the project, indicating broad support within the industry. The initiative promises to yield positive social, economic, and environmental benefits, providing farmers with a source of income while promoting sustainable forestry practices through the utilization of senile coconut trees.
In summary, this project not only seeks to enhance Fiji’s timber industry through innovation and sustainable practices but also serves as a platform for improving the livelihoods of local farmers and contributing to economic resilience.
As the project progresses, it brings hope for a greener future, balancing economic development with sustainability in resource management.
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