Latvijas Finieris set to increase focus on bio-based glues and resins

The company made the statement of intention as its executive board started to work on the company’s 2020-2027 development strategy.

“The main priorities for coming years are clearly noticeable – product development and process efficiency,” says Latvijas Finieris CEO Janis Ciems.

This is backed up by creation of a new business sector from February 1, 2020 – Development and Research sector, headed by Maris Bumanis, Latvijas Finieris board member.

“Improving the quality of plywood and adding value to by-products will play a great role in product development and diversification,” said Mr Bumanis.

“Further development of RIGA ECOlogical glue and resins will be pursued, gradually replacing fossil-based raw materials with bio-based solutions, including lignin.”

Latvijas has already developed for its RIGA branded birch plywood a new green glue RIGA ECOlogical, where bio-based renewable lignin is used as replacement for traditional phenol.

This was done in cooperation with Stora Enso, which supplied its Stora Enso Kraft lignin Lineo. Latvijas says this is only the beginning, as it is the company’s aim to develop completely fossil-free plywood glue in the future.

The Development and Research sector goal is to ensure higher added value for its processed wood.