Forest Bioeconomy in B.C.

The forest bioeconomy uses sustainably managed forest material (forest biomass) to make bioproducts like consumer goods and industrial products. Forest biomass can be any forest material from shrubs to branches, to berries. The bioeconomy ultimately contributes to reduced petrochemical-based products in the economy.

On this page:

Purpose of the forest bioeconomy

The forest bioeconomy finds innovative uses for residuals from conventional forestry or non-timber forest products. In doing so, the forest bioeconomy is helping shift the forest sector to a high-value, waste-free circular economy that fights against climate change.

Currently, the B.C. forest bioeconomy is in its early stages. It relies on partnerships with Indigenous peoples and private companies across the province to create innovative, high-value bioproducts.

Why invest in B.C.'s forest bioeconomy?

By investing in the development of a forest bioeconomy, B.C. is encouraging the diversification of the forest sector thus broadening the potential of the forest sector, creating good jobs, and making room for a new Indigenous-led approach to forestry. This innovation means seeing residual ‘waste’ fibre as an untapped resource which aligns with the principles behind BC’s Zero Waste and Climate Change initiatives. The forest bioeconomy also supports achieving the Ministry’s Mandate commitments such as shifting from a high volume to high value forest sector.

What are forest bioproducts?

Forest bioproducts result from commercial, industrial or consumer goods made wholly or substantially from forest biomass. B.C. has a mature and established forest sector mainly producing conventional forest products such as lumber, pulp, paper, veneers and furniture. The forest bioeconomy goes beyond these established products – expanding the sector by adding emerging bioproducts.

Click on the image below to enlarge the picture.

A diagram showing parts of the tree used to produce different bioproducts including electronics, clothing, vehicle parts, cosmetics and more.

Bioproduct examples:

Partnering programs and initiatives

Supporting diverse products and innovative use of our natural resources is an important part of diversifying our bio-economy, and the province partners with multiple organizations to do so.