The Slovenian wood processing industry is currently facing several significant challenges. High on the list are the low level of digitalisation, geopolitical uncertainty and the lack of added value of products. These challenges put the future and competitiveness of the industry to the test, dictating the need for strategic improvements.
The importance of digital and sustainable transition within the timber industry was clearly highlighted at the Slovenian Wood Industry Day. Digitalisation not only brings about the automation of processes, but also allows for greater efficiency and precise adaptation to changing market demands. Sustainable practices also contribute to more long-term stability and environmental health of the sector.
The integration of digital technologies such as simulation, digital twins and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is key to modernising production processes. At the same time, the sustainability transition, which includes reducing carbon dioxide emissions, also focuses on the entire product life cycle - from raw material extraction to recycling.
Although some measures have been introduced in the past, the current reality shows that the transition is moving too slowly. Increasing added value through innovation and sustainable practices requires a stronger focus from innovation teams working to transform current practices and an improvement culture into a new dimension. This transition will also inevitably require the involvement of different stakeholders, which requires coordination at multiple levels.
The successful transition of the Slovenian wood industry to a digital and sustainable economy is only possible through close cooperation between all stakeholders. Companies will need to invest in research and technology, research institutions will need to transfer the necessary knowledge and innovation, and the state will need to provide the appropriate legislative and financial support for an enabling environment.
State Secretary Dejan Židan, in his debate at the Wood Industry Day, underlined the importance of this transition. He stressed that the transition is crucial for the Ministry of Economy, as it allows for an increase in the competitiveness and resilience of the entire industry, which will in turn improve Slovenia's economic indicators.
However, the implementation of all these changes will require sound budgetary and legislative support. Only with the appropriate financial incentive will it be possible to make the necessary investments in modernising equipment and technologies. In addition to the economic incentive, countries need to create regulatory support that is conducive to the introduction of sustainable practices.
Even if programmatic and structural changes are already beginning, wood exploitation in Slovenia remains unsatisfactory, which points to the need to further accelerate the transition. The various projects and pilot programmes that seek to identify and remove barriers need to become even more ambitious and involve broader participation from all sectors of society.
Although the changes are positive, they are too slow. A call for concerted action by all stakeholders is necessary to improve the timber industry's responsiveness to the challenges ahead. Only a concerted effort can improve the sector's efficiency and increase its role in the Slovenian economy, benefiting the wider community and the environment.
