A biorefinery is essentially a fermentation process, whereby fibre or waste from trees or other plants are processed and transformed into a base for new products.

"Traditional forest industries produce wood products, pulp and paper and energy, however, by applying a biorefinery concept, the industry could extend its value streams and produce alternative fuels, plastics, textiles, pharmaceuticals, functional food additives and fragrances, to name a few," Dr Potter says.

Ensis is undertaking phenomics gene research to better understand gene function in trees, which will form the basis of the development of whole new industries for the forestry sector.

"Our phenomic research is specifically focused on enhancing the growth and wood characteristics of trees, which means they could be grown specifically to make biofuels, plastics or other bio-based products," Dr Potter says.

"Biotechnology can help us select species that have more potential in certain end uses. We have been using this technique for some time in traditional forestry to ensure that we breed the best trees for fibre and wood quality.

"Now we are seeking to take that a step further and help lead the industry into new, high-value industries," he says.

"We predict that future tree plantations will be different to what they are now, with trees grown for a wider range of purposes than housing or other traditional end uses.

"With the number of plantation forests expected to grow threefold in the next decade, the industry has a real opportunity to embrace these new technologies and carve out new, higher value markets."

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