Carboform Secures Ontario Funding to Develop Low-Carbon Coatings from Forest Biomass

The Ontario government is investing over $2.1 million in four projects aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the forest sector and promoting innovative uses of mill by-products and forest biomass. This initiative aligns with the government's broader economic strategy to protect the province's resources and foster a resilient economy. By focusing on forest sector growth, these investments are designed to open new markets, enhance supply chains, and safeguard employment opportunities within the region.

Kevin Holland, Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products, emphasized the challenge of expanding international market reach for Ontario forest products. The funding will specifically help companies like Ben Hokum and Son, which is slated to receive more than $1.9 million. This funding will facilitate the installation of two biomass-assisted steam kilns, significantly increasing lumber drying capacity and operational efficiency, thus enhancing the sawmill's competitive edge. The expected outcome includes boosting export sales by more than 30%, while maintaining 115 direct jobs and supporting over 100 additional indirect jobs.

In addition to the investment for Ben Hokum and Son, three more projects under the Forest Biomass Program are set to capitalize on the potential of over 350,000 tonnes of forest biomass annually. These projects include:

1. Ben Hokum and Son: A further $100,000 to plan a biomass-powered clean electricity and thermal energy facility that aims for net-negative emissions using carbon capture and storage.

2. TorchLight Bioresources: Securing $87,500 for a feasibility study on a combined heat and power plant in Petawawa, which would substitute natural gas with biomass energy.

3. Carboform: Receiving $62,500 to enhance technology that utilizes forest biomass residues for creating high-value, low-carbon coatings and inks.

These initiatives are part of a strategic framework, the "Roadmap to Protecting Ontario’s Forest Sector," devised to bolster and sustain this crucial industry. This roadmap outlines a ten-year strategy intended to position Ontario as a leader in innovative wood product manufacturing and global market competitiveness. The government's past support for the forest sector includes nearly $90 million facilitated under the Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program, which has led to the creation and retention of thousands of jobs while securing substantial external investment.

The forest sector remains vital, generating around $21 billion in revenue and supporting approximately 155,000 jobs across the province. Ontario's Crown forests produce sustainably sourced, renewable wood, making it an eco-friendly resource alternative to single-use plastics and a clean energy source.

A notable partner in this initiative, Carboform, recognizes the significance of the investment from the Ministry of Natural Resources. The funding enables Carboform to advance the development of new materials derived from Ontario wood residues, potentially transforming them into higher-value products for various applications, including paints and coatings. The company aims to collaborate with forest-product firms and coatings manufacturers to meet the growing demand for renewable, low-carbon materials, contributing to the innovation and expansion of Ontario’s forest sector.

In summary, these strategic investments demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the forest industry in Ontario while fostering sustainability and economic resilience through innovative technology and market opportunities.