Bioproducts from Canada's forests: New partnerships in the bioeconomy

Abstract

Individual book chapters attempt to estimate the value of various forest-derived bioproducts and give concrete indications of their potential contribution to a sustainable Canadian economy. It is the first time that any book has brought together much of the diverse information available at a national level and that also aims at suggesting progressive steps to be taken to maximize the many values of Canada's forest legacy. Wherever possible, dollar values have been assigned to present and emerging markets, and background provided on current technologies and issues, which will be helpful to policy-makers and opinion leaders. Novel biofuels and bioenergy are described at one end of the spectrum, with more traditional non-timber forest products, such as decorative and recreational products, at the other end. In addition, each chapter describes Canada's international position, future innovations, potential roadblocks to be overcome, and what mechanisms might enhance the competitiveness of Canada's forest-based bioeconomy. © 2006 Springer All Rights Reserved.