This year, the Forest Products Society (FPS) and the Society of Wood Science and Technology (SWST) joined forces and organized a joint convention »Wood for a Sustainable Future: Strengthening the Connection Between Industry and Science«, held 15-20 June 2025 in Colorado, USA.

Lea Primožič and Amy Simmons, InnoRenew CoE researchers, attended the convention and presented their research topics.

Amy Simmons presented the collaboration and networking in Europe through the holistic design of taller timber buildings, with the focus on COST Action HELEN.

Lea Primožič presented finding of her study about communication of sustainable construction, highlighting stakeholder engagement. Additionally, she moderated a session dedicated to 21st Century Forest Sector Business & Marketing Practices.

Following keynote speakers of Pete Madden and Giacomo Goli, there was a four-day technical program with over 200 presentations given by experts from around the world. Additionally, the conference offered activities for young researchers, there was the student poster presentations, and annual awards ceremony.

At the congress it was also announced that Dr. Matthew Schwarzkopf, InnoRenew CoE researcher, become President-elect of the Society of Wood Science and Technology (SWST).

The FPS-SWST Joint Convention 2025 was a great opportunity for discussions on the state of forest products research and provided continued education about innovations by leading industry and academic experts.

The next SWST International convention will be held 7-12 June 2026 in Seoul, Korea.