As part of its involvement, Weyerhaeuser will establish a new research site near Springfield, Ore. to better understand the effect of forest management practices on soil, water and wildlife. The site is intended to provide information on the effect of biomass removal, compaction and fertilization on soil, water and wildlife. Weyerhaeuser scientists Greg Johnson and Scott Holub will lead the study.

Weyerhaeuser also will work with collaborators to understand how to develop more cost-effective ways to collect currently under-utilized harvest residuals for emerging bio-fuel and bio-product applications. Gevan Marrs is the lead Weyerhaeuser scientist on the aspect.

Lignin is the second most abundant polymer in nature, but today is mainly used in basic applications such as being burned for green energy in the pulp mills or as an additive in cements. Weyerhaeuser will study ways to create high value bio products from residual lignin. John Westland is the Weyerhaeuser lead on the lignin study.

Throughout its 110-year history, Weyerhaeuser has been dedicated to providing sustainable solutions for people and the planet. External indices such as the Dow Jones Sustainability Index and the FTSE4Good index have recognized the company’s leadership in sustainability.