- TIMBERBIZ.COM.AU - A La Une - 20/Jun 00:40

Scion at the Fieldays’ Forestry Hub

New Zealand’s Fieldays held at Mystery Creek last week was full of tractors, the latest agricultural technology, gumboots and more. But it also provided a glimpse into a different world. Source: Timberbiz This year Scion sponsored the Forestry Hub stage, where there were plenty of conversations around gene technologies, native trees, the circular bioeconomy and more. Scion scientists Peter Clinton, Diahanna O’Callahan and Simeon Smaill talked about how forestry and agriculture can work together to address climate challenges, why treated radiata pine is built to last and how we can apply radiata pine growth learnings to create indigenous forests. Scion chief operating officer Florian Graichen also attended this year and said the event was a whirlwind of inspiration and collaboration. His highlights include a visit to the inaugural German Pavilion, which featured more than 10 leading agri-businesses, and meeting European Union Ambassador to New Zealand Lawrence Meredith, which could help Scion identify new collaborative opportunities with Europe. “The Scion team had a great time sharing their cutting-edge science, catching up with friends and business contacts and making new connections,” Mr Graichen said. Mr Graichen, Alec Foster of GM Forests to Bio-based Products and portfolio lead Marc Gaugler featured on the Forestry Hub stage. Mr Craichen and Mr Foster shared insights on the future of biotechnology and Scion’s continued innovations to help transform forestry exports, and the exciting journey as we join the Bioeconomy Science Institute from 1 July 1. Mr Gaugler focused on the bioeconomy in the forest: Transforming trees into tomorrow’s products. He also showed international examples of commercially established products that add value to forest resources and could help increase exports from NZ resources. Scion’s innovations aim to embrace opportunities and solve challenges as New Zealand moves to a circular bioeconomy focused on sustainable design and renewable resources.