May 29, 2025 (New Zealand Forest Research Institute (Scion) (via LinkedIn)) –
New Zealand Forest Research Institute (Scion) posted 9 LinkedIn updates from May 22 to May 29, 2025. The company's posts covered a wide range of topics, including sustainable forestry, biodiversity research, industrial biotechnology, packaging innovation, and renewable energy. Let's explore the key areas of focus for Scion during this period.
Sustainable Forestry and Biodiversity Research
Scion's commitment to sustainable forestry and biodiversity research was evident in several posts. The company highlighted its ongoing work at the Puruki research forest, which has been a cornerstone of New Zealand's forestry research for half a century. As the forest approaches its next harvest phase, Scion's team is collecting crucial data to guide the transition toward more resilient forest systems.
A recent biodiversity study at Puruki revealed impressive findings:
- 376 moths collected across three light-trapping sessions, representing 45 unique species (91% native or endemic)
- 248 leafroller caterpillars sampled from nine host species
The company also celebrated a significant milestone in its Forest Flows Programme, with the publication of its 20th peer-reviewed paper. This research provides new insights into how radiata pine forests use and release water, highlighting Scion's commitment to impactful science and sustainable innovation.
Biodiversity study reveals forest health
Forest Flows Programme reaches milestone
Innovative Materials and Circular Economy
Scion's research into innovative materials and circular economy solutions was prominently featured. The company analyzed a laminated radiata pine cross-arm installed on the Desert Road in 1965, which remained in excellent condition even after lying on the ground for over 15 years post-service. This finding demonstrates the potential of properly treated radiata pine as a durable, climate-smart alternative to steel and concrete in infrastructure projects.
In collaboration with Kiwi Leather Innovations, Scion is supporting the development of a plant-based leather alternative made from kiwifruit waste. This project exemplifies how Scion partners with industry to turn food waste into sustainable materials, supporting a circular economy and unlocking new value streams for New Zealand. The resulting material is over 90% plant-based, plastic-free, and biodegradable.
Radiata pine proves long-lasting durability
Kiwifruit waste transformed into leather
Packaging Innovation and Food Safety
Scion's role in packaging innovation and food safety was highlighted with the announcement of Kate Parker, Packaging Research Team Leader, joining the Science Leadership Team of the New Zealand Food Safety Science and Research Centre (NZFSSRC). This collaboration underscores the vital role of packaging in keeping food safe, fresh, and export-ready.
Scion's innovative packaging solutions, including bioplastics and biodegradable materials made from hemp, blueberry pulp, and cabbage waste, are now part of a national effort to strengthen food safety science. The company's involvement in NZFSSRC brings together expertise from various research institutions to address the complex challenges of developing safe, functional, and regulatory-compliant packaging alternatives.
Scion joins national food safety initiative
Industrial Biotechnology and Gene Technology
Scion expressed enthusiasm for the positive signals from the New Zealand government and agencies like Invest New Zealand and the Gene Technology Regulator, which are creating an environment conducive to innovation, investment, and public trust in industrial biotechnology and gene technology. The company's industrial biotechnology teams are working with global partners to deliver biologically produced, low-emission solutions, contributing to New Zealand's low-carbon future.
NZ supports biotech and gene tech growth
Renewable Energy and Bioenergy
Scion contributed to an important update on New Zealand's bioenergy sector, highlighting the potential for scaling sustainable, locally sourced energy. Key points from the report include:
- Renewable energy accounted for 33% of New Zealand's final energy consumption in 2022, with 20% derived from biomass
- Over 85% of electricity generation in New Zealand is based on renewables
- Bioenergy is entirely domestically produced and primarily used for industrial heating
- New Zealand has significant growth opportunities in solid biomass, liquid biofuels, biogas, and MSW energy
NZ bioenergy sector shows potential
Other Updates
Scion also announced an upcoming episode of their podcast "Branching Out," featuring Dr. Heidi Dungey, a renowned tree breeder and former Scion scientist. The episode will explore the power of purpose-driven science in transforming forest growth, management, and protection.
In conclusion, Scion's LinkedIn activity during this period showcases a research institute deeply committed to sustainable forestry, innovative materials, circular economy solutions, and renewable energy. From biodiversity studies to packaging innovations and bioenergy advancements, Scion continues to position itself as a leader in forest and biomaterials research, driving positive change for New Zealand's environment and economy.
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