Webinar Series “Sustainable Forestry Operations for the Bioeconomy”: Forest Machinery Development and Automation
Join a 1.5 hour online webinar on “Forest Machinery Development and Automation” with experts from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) and the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), and connect with a broad international audience. In this session, you will explore how innovative forest machinery, autonomous systems, robotics, and electric vehicle (EV) technologies are shaping the next generation of forestry operations. The webinar will highlight cutting edge developments in intelligent automation, and sustainable machine design that improve operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance safety in forest operations. Participants will gain insights into how these emerging technologies are driving the transition toward smart, automated, and sustainable forestry systems.
Key features will be:
- Understanding the latest developments in forest machinery and automation for modern forestry operations,
- Exploring innovative technologies used in silviculture and forest harvesting systems,
- Learning how automation and advanced machinery can improve efficiency, safety, and environmental protection.
Speakers:
Prof. Ola Lindroos is Professor of Forest Operations at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). His research focuses on improving forest operations to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and working conditions. His work spans the full spectrum of forest operational activities, from biomass harvesting to restoration and conservation-oriented operations, and emphasizes the integration of human expertise with autonomous and advanced technologies. In addition to his research and teaching responsibilities, he serves as Vice Dean for Strategic Recruitment and Skills Supply at SLU’s Faculty of Forest Sciences.
Prof. Kalle Kärhä has been a Professor of Forest Technology, since 2021, especially Digitalization of Forest Operations and Logistics at the University of Eastern Finland. Currently, he also holds a Docent professorship in Forest Technology at the University of Helsinki and a Docent professorship in Forest Technology, especially Forest Energy Supply Systems at the University of Eastern Finland. Previously, he worked in several operational and RDI roles at Stora Enso Wood Supply Finland in 2011–2021.
The total number of his publications is more than 400 consisting of the peer-reviewed scientific articles, non-refereed scientific articles and books, as well as publications intended for professional communities and the general public. His research interests include driver and operator assistant systems, studies on the utilization of novel sensor technologies in forest machines and timber trucks, and energy efficiency and GHG emissions in the value chain of forest industry.
Dr. Back Tomas Ersson is a Senior Lecturer at the School for Forest Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). He holds a PhD in Forestry and conducts research in forest operations and forest management, with a particular focus on mechanized regeneration, tree planting technologies, and productivity in harvesting systems. His work contributes to developing efficient and sustainable forestry practices, including innovations in mechanized planting, continuous cover forestry, and operational solutions for modern forest management.
Date and Time
Friday, 24 April 2026, 13.30 (GMT+7) / 8.30 (UTC+3) / 9.30 (UTC+2)
Source: IUFRO
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