Officials of FII pose with architects Hiren Patel (3rd from left) and Sonke Hoof (4th from left) after the seminar.

Forestry Innovation Consulting India Pvt. Ltd., popularly known as Canadian Wood, hosted an insightful educational seminar in Ahmedabad recently, titled ‘Canadian Wood: The Sustainable Solution’.

The event garnered immense success, drawing together industry leaders, experts and enthusiasts who participated and shared their thoughts on the promising future of wood as a sustainable material in design and its potential to redefine the architectural landscape.

As the world increasingly recognises the importance of sustainability in various industries, Canadian Wood took the initiative to delve into the critical intersection of wood and sustainability. This seminar shed light on how wood, a versatile and traditional material, can be harnessed sustainably to meet modern needs while safeguarding our environment.

Distinguished speakers and panellists were carefully selected to offer valuable insights and perspectives on the important topic of how wood can be designed for various applications and adapt to the environment.

Architect Hiren Patel, founder of Hiren Patel Architects said, “When considering construction materials, it is evident that wood, particularly Canadian wood species, surpasses alternatives like glass and steel due to its significantly lower carbon footprint. As an architect, I hold a deep appreciation for Canadian wood, as it boasts forest certification, alleviating concerns that often arise when sourcing other non-certified timber.”

“In our current endeavour to craft a villa project in Ahmedabad, characterised by its lighter design sensibilities, Canadian wood emerges as the unequivocal choice. Its eco-friendly attributes and elegant tonal qualities not only contribute to reducing our environmental impact but also assure a sense of ethical responsibility in our pursuit of architectural excellence,” he added.

Architect Sonke Hoof, from Vastu Shilpa Sangath, said, “In my architectural endeavor, exemplified by the ‘Black Perch’ project in Ahmedabad, I’ve chosen Yellow cedar from Canadian Wood. This sustainable choice aligns with my commitment to certified materials, especially for tropical species like teak, whose sources are often undisclosed, with much now originating in Africa.”

“Canadian Wood’s transparency and quality make it the top choice in my projects, ensuring both structural integrity and environmental responsibility while upholding the ethical standards that guide my architectural practice,” he added.

Dr Jimmy Thomas, Business Development Manager, provided an in-depth insight on wood species from British Columbia (Canada), their features and versatility to the audience.

Mr. Pranesh Chhibber, Country Director of Canadian Wood, focussed on the role and support his organisation offers to the industry in India with technical expertise in choosing the right wood for manufacturers’ designs and projects.

“Canadian wood is legally harvested and certified. With a range of five wood species for specific applications, we work closely with architects, developers, and industry stakeholders,” he said.

The Canadian Wood team provides guidance, from project inception to completion, offering expertise on wood types and grades. “Through one-on-one conversations with architects and industry participants, we are actively fostering sustainable practices and raising awareness in Ahmedabad. Our mission is to continually contribute to the city’s evolving architectural landscape,” he added.

FII largely promotes five wood species in India: Western hemlock, Douglas-fir, Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF), Western red cedar and Yellow cedar. They are available in 19 cities across India through a strong network of 34 stockists. For more information, visit www.canadianwood.in.

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