Global Forestry Group Announces Research & Innovation Award Winners
Earlier today, the International Council of Forest and Paper Associations (ICFPA) announced the winners of its Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation Awards. The contest is part of a global initiative spearheaded by ICFPA as an opportunity for young forest sector researchers and professionals to showcase how their ideas, practices, and processes are advancing the global bioeconomy while sustaining the natural environment.
This year, ICFPA member companies nominated 21 candidates from around the world to compete internationally. An international jury composed of industry experts and leaders in academia and public policy selected the following candidates to recieve global recognition for their innovative contributions:
- Francine Ceccon Claro (Brazil) – Low-Cost Wood-Derived Nanocellulose Wound Dressing
- Jesús Rodríguez (Chile) – Flexbio, a Biodegradable and Compostable Bioplastic: Radiata Pine Sawdust Derivative
- Udita Ringania (USA) – Dewatering of Cellulose Nanomaterials using Ultrasound
In addition to receiving a cash award, these winners presented their future-changing ideas to an international group of forestry business leaders during ICFPA’s Global CEO Roundtable, being held virtually. Congratulations to these champions and to all the nominees who demonstrate – through their ingenuity – that forestry’s future is bright.
Quote from ICFPA President Derek Nighbor:
“ICFPA congratulates all participants and winners of the global Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation Awards. As we push through the pandemic and continue our shift to a lower carbon economy, the global forest products sector – and the young professionals driving new innovations – are poised to revolutionize the future of forest-based products and bring more sustainably-sourced forest products to the world.”
Quote from Dr. Lyndall Bull, Forestry Officer with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
“On behalf of the judging panel for the 2020-2021 Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation Awards, I would like to extend my congratulations to all the entrants but particularly to the outstanding award winners,” said Dr. Lyndall Bull, Forestry Officer with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. “The three winning entries potential impact on reducing the use of plastic, improving health outcomes and reducing energy consumption demonstrate the depth and breadth of the solutions that the forest sector is contributing to solve the world’s most pressing economic, social and environmental problems. We wish the winners the best of luck in their future careers and look forward to seeing their innovations produced at scale.” added Dr. Bull.
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The ICFPA serves as a forum of global dialogue, coordination and co-operation. Currently, the ICFPA represents 18 pulp, paper, wood and fibre-based associations that encompass 28 countries, including many of the top pulp, paper and wood producers around the world.
For more information contact:
Kerry Patterson-Baker, VP Communciations
Communications Secretariat for ICFPA
e : kpatterson-baker@fpac.ca
t : 613-563-1441 ext. 314
