Toward full, multiple, and optimal wood fibre utilization: A modeling perspective

The slow growth rates of Canada's considerable forest fibre supply give it exceptional characteristics. It is a challenge for forest managers, researchers, and stakeholders to realize the highest value creation from this opportunity for the benefit of Canadians. Ideally, this should be achieved with full, multiple, and optimal wood fibre utilization, whereby all quality classes of wood fibre are used to their fullest potential, and all possible value creation options are considered. This paper describes the concept of value chains in a global context, and how they can be applied to forestry using a modeling framework. This is followed by a discussion on how this modeling framework can be used to address the optimal use of wood fibre, and how it can be used to address forest management-related issues and concerns.