Canada invests $2.8M in Atlantic Canada’s forest sector to drive innovation and sustainability

    a group of people - one holding a sign
    Categories
    Provinces,
    From the Springboard Content Lab

    The Government of Canada is investing $2.8 million in seven forestry projects in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia to modernize the sector, expand mass timber construction, and support Indigenous and industry partnerships. The investment includes funding for Springboard member University of New Brunswick (UNB). This funding reinforces the important role of post-secondary research in advancing sustainable forestry innovation in Atlantic Canada.

    Key Takeaways

    • $2.8M federal investment supports forestry innovation projects in NB and NS
    • UNB receives $500,000 to advance mass timber construction research
    • Projects focus on low-carbon fuels, advanced wood products, and Indigenous-led forestry initiatives
    • Forestry remains a major economic driver in Atlantic Canada, supporting nearly 19,000 jobs

    Strengthening Atlantic Canada’s forest economy

    Natural Resources Canada has announced an investment of $2.8 million to strengthen and modernize the forest sector in Atlantic Canada.

    These investments are part of a broader national effort to transform the forestry industry, supporting innovation, sustainability, and resilience in the face of global trade pressures and climate challenges.

    Across the region, forestry continues to play a critical role in economic development, contributing nearly $2 billion to GDP and supporting thousands of jobs.

    Funded projects

    1. Vyterra Renewables – Low-Carbon Fuel Oil Facility

    • Amount: $1,746,000
    • Location: Enfield, Nova Scotia
    • Description: Advances engineering and permitting for a facility converting forest residues into low-carbon fuel oil to reduce emissions and reliance on imports.

    2. University of New Brunswick (UNB) – 2×3 Building-In-a building Mass Timber Project

    • Amount: $500,000
    • Location: Fredericton, New Brunswick
    • Description: Designs and tests a prefabricated wood building system using advanced mass timber with full life-cycle and cost analysis.

    3. Ulnooweg Education Centre – HWA Treatment Project

    • Amount: $296,920
    • Location: Millbrook, Nova Scotia
    • Description: Supports Indigenous-led forestry management, including treatment and mitigation of invasive species impacting forest health.

    4. Wolastoqey Nation – Forestry Stewardship Initiative

    • Amount: ~$150,000 (approx., from supporting sources)
    • Location: New Brunswick
    • Description: Advances land management planning and sustainable forestry practices within Wolastoqey communities.

    5. John W. Jamer Ltd. – Mill Modernization Project

    • Amount: ~$100,000 (approx.)
    • Location: New Brunswick
    • Description: Upgrades sawmill operations to increase efficiency and support higher-value wood product manufacturing.

    6. Global Forest Leadership Project – Export Diversification Study

    • Amount: $45,000
    • Location: Atlantic Canada (regional)
    • Description: Supports research to expand international markets for Canadian wood products.

    7. Global Forest Leadership Project – Technical Trade & Education Initiative

    • Amount: $28,750
    • Location: Atlantic Canada (regional)
    • Description: Builds technical knowledge and training to enhance global competitiveness in the forest sector.

    Total Investment

    $2.8 million across 7 projects supporting innovation, Indigenous participation, clean energy, and export growth in Atlantic Canada’s forest sector.

    FAQs

    What is the total investment announced?

    The Government of Canada is investing $2.8 million in seven forestry projects across New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

    What role does UNB play in this initiative?

    UNB is receiving $500,000 to develop and test advanced mass timber construction systems and analyze their environmental and economic performance.

    Why is mass timber important?

    Mass timber is a low-carbon alternative to traditional building materials, supporting sustainable construction and helping reduce emissions.

    How does this benefit Atlantic Canada?

    The investment supports job creation, innovation, and export growth, while strengthening a sector that is vital to regional economies.

    About Springboard Atlantic

    Springboard Atlantic is a network of 19 post-secondary institutions across Atlantic Canada, connecting researchers with industry to drive innovation, commercialization, and economic growth. Through collaboration, Springboard helps turn research into real-world solutions that strengthen key sectors like forestry, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.