Branchlines Magazine

Winter 2024 branchlines

Latest Issue – Winter 2024 Branchlines

Materials made from the building blocks of wood are an expanding area of research at UBC Forestry. Whether fueling jet engines, offering alternatives to concrete and textiles or replacing plastics, the versatility of bio-based materials has opened the door to their possible application in a broad array of industries. In this issue, we explore a few examples of the potential of these bio-based disruptors, particularly in the global bid towards more sustainable and fully biodegradable products.

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Featured Articles

Machine picks up logs in a forest

Branchlines: Fact-Finding Mission to Finland

With around 75% of its total area forested, Finland has been a key player in the forest sector since at least the turn of the 20th Century.

BPI researcher shows a 'non-animal leather' derived from wood.

Branchlines: The Bioproducts Institute at UBC

Interdisciplinary collaborations are transforming forestry resources into the next generation of sustainable bioproducts.

Emily Cranston uses tweezers to grab a piece of flexible nanocellulose aerogel.

Branchlines: The Potential of Nanocellulose-based Biodegradable Products

Canadian innovations are leading the way in the commercialization and industrial production of nanocellulose.

Bio-based-materials graphic

Branchlines: Bio-Based Materials

Change-makers are generating the know-how needed to decarbonize our economy.

Past Issues

Spring 2024 Branchlines

Spring 2024 Branchlines

A new era of forestry is being ushered in by the rise of digital technology and automation, a great deal of which is also addressing the urgent need to mitigate climate change and respond to shifting community priorities. Find out how UBC Forestry is pushing boundaries with innovative research, teaching and community outreach that is equipping students and faculty members to tackle global challenges. Other features include a tribute to the late, great Dr. John Worrall, forestry student emergency fund details, student profiles and details about the new Centre for Wildfire Coexistence and Chair.

Spring 2023 Branchlines

SPRING 2023 Branchlines

Greenery can be a common source of refuge and recreation in the urban environment, but have you ever stopped to wonder who maintains the lush plant life found in parks and other public spaces? In this issue, we explore the relatively new role of the urban forester, and find out what it takes to fill those shoes. We hear directly from leading urban forestry researchers who are examining the human and wildlife health implications of urban forests, as well as the important role citizens can play in maintaining green spaces. Learn from experienced BC urban foresters about landscape design, pest infestation management, wildfire preparedness and tree planting initiatives.

Fall 2022 Branchlines

FALL 2022 Branchlines

The future of forestry is now. Led by innovative thinkers, groundbreaking technology and pressing social and environmental need, the forestry profession of today is addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. This issue takes a deep dive into sustainable forest management and the diversity of perspectives and approaches that are shaping it. Also in the fall edition: hear from a leading expert on Indigenous forest gardens. Learn about state-of-the-art cellulose-based biomaterials. Follow the family tree of 7 generations of foresters. Get the graduate and undergraduate student perspective.