WP 2.2: Harvesting and wood processing

In the past decade in China harvesting activities have not been in the focus of forestry research, resulting in a lack of technical development and knowledge. This is especially true, where forest plantation are situated in steep terrain, where harvesting in a challenge in economical, organization and safety aspects.

Up to today in most cases small dimensioned trees are going to be harvested, using motor-manual techniques with intensive labor input.

The two main objectives of this working package will be:

• Developing semi-mechanized harvesting concepts for Chinese conditions with testing and introducing cable crane systems
• Development of concepts for the use of small dimensioned round wood as well as bamboo for advanced bioenergy products namely pellets