Scion scientists and the Commercialisation and Construction Innovation groups from Callaghan Innovation have come together to explore new collaboration opportunities that will create greater impact for New Zealand.

Scion hosted the team from Callaghan Innovation during a series of workshops at Te Whare Nui o Tuteata in Rotorua in March. The focus was on accelerating the development and commercialisation of technology in key areas like high-value wood product manufacturing, bioplastics, sustainable construction, forestry management, wood processing, biofuel and waste-to-value initiatives.

Callaghan head of construction and innovation Nick Sterling says the workshops were an excellent opportunity to collaborate more closely on impactful and converging technologies that everyone is aware of today, and also build awareness and alignment on what technologies are coming over the horizon.

“This shared intel allows both organisations to build our capabilities to support businesses and ecosystem partners and better tackle their future challenges and opportunities.”

Partnerships across the New Zealand innovation system are critical to Scion’s mission and vision – transitioning New Zealand to a circular bioeconomy.

Scion general manager for Forests to Timber Products Henri Bailleres says working together will drive positive change in the forestry sector. The partnership aims to find innovative solutions to increase the efficiency of timber processing and to create sustainable building products and systems.

“With our combined knowledge, we look forward to seeing positive outcomes.”