More than 100 representatives from the forestry and timber industries, architecture, construction, education and research gathered at Campus Rotholz on 17 July 2026 for the Timber Industry Day. Organised by proHolz Tirol as part of Bioeconomy Austria, the event was held under the theme “Rethinking Wood – Opportunities for the Bioeconomy”.
The programme focused on innovative projects, current developments and the role wood can play in the transition towards a sustainable, bio-based economy.
Bioeconomy in Practice at Campus Rotholz
Campus Rotholz was deliberately chosen as a venue where the principles of the bioeconomy are put into practice every day. Both HBLFA Tirol and the Rotholz Agricultural College (LLA) are based at this centre for education, research and innovation. At the start of the event, participants had the opportunity to visit both institutions and gain insights into their activities.
The subsequent conference programme was opened by Deputy Governor ÖR Josef Geisler, Dr Georg Rappold from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, and Manfred Saurer, Chair of the proHolz Board.
Wood as a Key Resource for the Bioeconomy
The bioeconomy aims to progressively replace fossil-based raw materials with renewable alternatives while using available resources efficiently and sustainably. Wood plays a central role in this transition: it is available regionally, stores carbon and can be used in a wide range of applications, from construction and advanced materials to innovative high-tech products.
In his keynote address, Professor Jan Grossarth-Maticek from Biberach University of Applied Sciences highlighted the potential of timber construction within a bio-based economy. New technologies, the reuse of building components and the utilisation of wood residues are opening up further opportunities for sustainable construction and the development of new products.
Innovation from Tyrol
A series of short presentations from Tyrol demonstrated the wide range of applications for renewable raw materials. The projects presented included a wood-carbon racing bicycle, a CNC-controlled one-person sawmill and signs made from hemp fibres.
WINNLAB was also featured in the programme. The laboratory supports digital transformation in the carpentry and joinery sector and provides a practical environment for testing and further developing new technologies.
In addition, HBLFA Director Ronald Zecha and LLA Director Josef Stoll presented Campus Rotholz and its broad range of educational programmes, covering agriculture, forestry, horticulture, food technology and biotechnology. In this way, the campus makes an important contribution to the continued development of Tyrol’s agricultural and forestry sectors.
Networking and an Informal Conclusion
Alongside the presentations, a bioeconomy exhibition gave participants the opportunity to explore practical innovations and engage directly with companies, researchers and industry experts.
The event concluded with a summer reception, where discussions continued in a relaxed atmosphere.
© proHolz Tirol / Alex Schmidt