Forests and Forestry. Lithuania’s forested area covers approximately 33,7% of its total land (about 2,2 million hectares), making forestry an important contributor to its economy and ecological landscape. These forests are primarily dominated by mixed coniferous and broad-leaved species. Managed under the principles of sustainable forestry, they provide a renewable source of biomass, crucial for Europe’s transition to a circular bioeconomy.
Woodworking Sector. Lithuania’s woodworking industry is a critical part of the forest-based value chain, employing around 30 000 people and contributing significantly to the national economy. The sector specializes in the production of sawn wood, furniture components and other products, much of which is exported to European markets. For example, in 2021, wood and wood products accounted for approximately 5% of Lithuania’s total exports. Notably, the Lithuanian furniture industry focuses on sustainable design and production methods. Many businesses in the sector rely on certified wood from sustainably managed forests, aligning with EU climate and environmental goals.
Pulp and Paper Industry. While Lithuania has a smaller pulp and paper footprint than some EU countries, it has niche expertise in producing high-quality paper and packaging materials. With increasing demand for sustainable packaging, the industry is moving toward innovative solutions, including recyclable and biodegradable alternatives. This shift aligns with EU-wide strategies to reduce single-use plastics and enhance sustainability.
Bioenergy. Forestry plays a pivotal role in Lithuania’s bioenergy sector, underpinning the country’s efforts to achieve energy independence and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, particularly natural gas imports. As part of its National Energy Independence Strategy, Lithuania has prioritized the transition from gas-burning to renewable energy sources, with forest biomass emerging as a cornerstone of this transformation. By leveraging forest biomass for bioenergy, Lithuania not only enhances its energy security but also contributes to the EU’s renewable energy goals and the broader shift towards a circular bioeconomy.
Research & Innovation landscape
The key research institutions in Lithuania include Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry and Lithuanian University of Applied Engineering Sciences. Lithuania invests in forest-related research and innovation, focusing on advanced forest management systems, bioenergy, and sustainable product development. Notably, Vytautas Magnus University in collaboration with Linnaeus University (Sweden) and other partners, have established an excellence center Forest 4.0, with a goal to transform the forest environment monitoring.
Lithuania’s R&I landscape is also marked by numerous companies and startups developing innovative solutions for forest monitoring, advanced material production and circular bioeconomy. Such companies include THRUST – Intelligent UAV Systems, Aispeco, Euromediena and others. Collaborative efforts with European partners further strengthen the role of these companies in developing technologies that enhance productivity and sustainability on European level.
