Foresting Tomorrow #22 | Special Guest: Maximilian Pramreiter, Senior Scientist at BOKU University
Foresting Tomorrow is a weekly podcast hosted by Jens Isbak, Rasmus Pedersen, and Benjamin Lauridsen. In episode #22, we welcome Maximilian Pramreiter, Senior Scientist at BOKU University and host of the WoodCAST podcast.We start with an introduction to Max’s journey into wood science—beginning at HTL Kuchl, continuing through his studies in wood technology and management at BOKU University, and his research on structural wood-based materials. He has worked extensively on wood-based construction materials, with a particular focus on high-performance applications such as automotive design.We discuss how finite element modeling and advanced material science are helping wood compete with traditional materials like steel. Maximilian shares insights into wood’s potential in automotive design and the challenges of predicting wood behavior.We also dive into the global shift in forestry resources, exploring how climate change is affecting the availability and quality of raw materials. Maximilian explains the difficulties of replacing spruce with alternative species and how wood-based materials will need to adapt to a changing world.All in all, a fascinating episode packed with insights into forestry, material science, and the future of sustainable wood applications.
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Foresting Tomorrow #21 | Trump’s logging order and a forestry trade battle over EUDR
Foresting Tomorrow is a weekly podcast hosted by Jens Isbak, Rasmus Pedersen, and now Benjamin Lauridsen. In episode #21, we discuss how policy shifts and technological advancements are shaping forestry worldwide.First, we break down Trump’s executive order, which expands logging across 280 million acres of U.S. national forests, bypassing endangered species protections and raising concerns about biodiversity loss and wildfire risks.We then examine the growing forestry trade battle between the U.S. and the EU. A coalition of 18 U.S. states is pushing back against the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), arguing that it unfairly burdens American timber exports.Next, we explore how a new 3D Earth observation satellite system could revolutionise environmental monitoring and forestry management. With high-frequency, high-resolution mapping, this initiative aims to update global 3D maps annually, providing real-time insights into land-use changes.Finally, we look at New Zealand’s mobile coverage breakthrough, where SpaceX Starlink and OneNZ are enabling foresters to send texts from even the most remote locations—boosting efficiency and safety in the field.
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Foresting Tomorrow #20 | Special Guests: Ben Gunneberg (UKWAS Chair) & Peter Wilson (UKWAS Working Group Chair)
Foresting Tomorrow is a weekly podcast hosted by Jens Isbak and Rasmus Pedersen. In episode #20, Jens and Benjamin welcome special guests Ben Gunneberg (UKWAS Chair) and Peter Wilson (UKWAS Working Group Chair).We begin with an introduction to these two distinguished guests, whose extensive and inspirational careers in UK forestry include roles in organisations such as the Timber Growers Association, PEFC, UKWAS, SBP, and the Institute of Chartered Foresters, to name a few.We then turn our attention to the UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS)—how it all started, the fact that UKWAS is not a scheme but a standard-setting body, and how it was first endorsed by FSC before later being recognised by PEFC. We discuss the evolution of UKWAS across five versions, highlighting both successes and challenges along the way.Additionally, we explore whether other countries have considered adopting a similar setup and whether any have attempted it over the years. The discussion concludes with the current state of Version 5, which is in a challenging position as it awaits FSC International’s endorsement.All in all, this episode is packed with insights and knowledge about UKWAS, PEFC, and FSC—essential listening for anyone interested in forestry certification and sustainability.
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Foresting Tomorrow #19 | A quick tour around the Lumber War and chainsaw innovations
Foresting Tomorrow is a weekly podcast hosted by Jens Isbak and Rasmus Pedersen. In episode #19, we take a quick trip down history lane to uncover the Lumber War—the long-standing softwood dispute between the U.S. and Canada. We also explore some key lessons learned from tariffs in general. Next, we shift our attention to chainsaw innovations, diving into the history of chainsaws and how they have evolved over time—from early cumbersome models to today’s lightweight, battery-powered, and AI-assisted saws.
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Foresting Tomorrow #18 | Massive tree data and an new efficient planting machine
Foresting Tomorrow is a weekly podcast hosted by Jens Isbak and Rasmus Pedersen. In episode #18, we discuss a fascinating study conducted on 20,000 trees from 33 species across Europe. The study explores species detection using laser scanners and photogrammetry, with the best models achieving around 80% accuracy. We also revisit the topic of planting machines. A Swedish company, Plantma Forestry, has developed a two-person-operated forwarder with a mounted cabin and mechanics, capable of planting 3,000 seedlings per hour with survival rates nearing 90%.
Ireland