The forest products industry significantly contributes to Virginia's economy, generating $23 billion annually, employing 109,000 individuals, and providing $345 million to timber landowners. Hardwood log exports are a crucial portion of this economic contribution, with major importers including China, Vietnam, and Canada. Most importing countries have specific requirements to prevent the movement of invasive organisms on the logs imported, of which chemical treatment is common. This study examines the feasibility and implications of transitioning from chemical-based treatments, such as methyl bromide, to a vacuum and steam treatment for hardwood log exports. Our investigation focuses on understanding the barriers to the adoption of this new technology, including industry awareness and perception, regulatory framework challenges, international acceptance, and economic viability. By addressing these areas, we aim to create a comprehensive manual for any company interested in adopting this technology. The manual will include a performance measurement system and a feasibility study to ensure successful implementation. Therefore, this thesis consists of two documents, the first provides background information, a problem statement and methods and results around the investigation of barriers to the adoption of this new treatment and a second document, the proposed manual to assist with implementation.
To address the first objective, data were collected through interviews with technology developers, industry experts, and hardwood log importers in China and India. Quantitative data highlighted a 36.7% increase in US hardwood log exports to China in 2023, with species like alder and yellow poplar leading the market. Results indicate that China imports a significantly higher volume of hardwood logs monthly compared to India, highlighting a larger and more consistent demand. Commonly imported species include red and white oak, ash, and walnut.
Both countries have strict fumigation requirements, primarily using methyl bromide, underscoring a global reliance on this method despite its environmental concerns. Awareness of alternative treatments such as vacuum and steam is limited, though there is interest in exploring cost-effective and efficient methods. However, adoption is hindered by regulatory approval and the need for proven effectiveness. To facilitate this transition, we created a comprehensive manual for companies to guide them through replacing methyl bromide and other chemical treatments with vacuum and steam technology. This study provides a comprehensive pathway for adopting vacuum and steam technology, addressing technical, regulatory, and economic considerations. The forest products sector can mitigate environmental impact by aligning industry practices with sustainable treatment methods while maintaining international trade relationships. / Master of Science / Virginia's forest industry is a major part of the state's economy, generating $23 billion each year and providing jobs to 109,000 people. Hardwood logs, particularly those exported to countries like China, Vietnam, and Canada, play a significant role in this economic impact. However, these countries require that imported logs be treated to prevent the spread of harmful pests. Traditionally, chemical treatments like methyl bromide have been used, but they pose environmental concerns.
Our study explores the possibility of switching to a safer and more environmentally friendly method: vacuum and steam treatment. We looked into the challenges that might come with adopting this new technology, such as how aware the industry is of it, regulatory hurdles, whether international markets would accept it, and whether it's economically feasible. Our goal is to create a helpful guide for companies interested in making this switch, ensuring they have all the information needed to implement the new treatment successfully.
To gather insights, we interviewed experts and key players in the industry, including log importers from China and India. We found that while there is interest in exploring new treatments, there are significant challenges, particularly related to getting regulatory approval and proving the effectiveness of the new method. Despite these challenges, our research outlines a clear path for adopting vacuum and steam treatment, which could help the forest products industry reduces its environmental impact while continuing to thrive in international trade.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:VTETD/oai:vtechworks.lib.vt.edu:10919/121048 |
| Date | 30 August 2024 |
| Creators | Zambrano Balma, Francisco Xavier |
| Contributors | Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation, Bond, Brian H., Quesada, Henry Jose, White, Marshall S. |
| Publisher | Virginia Tech |
| Source Sets | Virginia Tech Theses and Dissertation |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | ETD, application/pdf |
| Rights | In Copyright, http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ |
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