Alternative uses of sawmill industry waste

In Mexico, approximately 8 million m(3) of wood is produced annually. Of this volume, 70 % goes to the sawmill industry, generating around 2.8 million m(3) of waste, mainlysawdust, woodchips and bark. The management of these wastes represents a problem today, as they are mainly used as a source of energy, negatively affecting the environment, generating dust in the air and contributing to the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In addition, the waste is harmful to the health of sawmill workers and residents in nearby areas, by generating environmental problems such as fires and self-combustion. Consequently, it is necessary to find alternative uses for this waste. Most of this waste is rich in cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin and other low molecular weight substances, desirable characteristics in many industrial processes. The extractable substances could be used in these processes, thus reducing the environmental impact. This review provides sustainable alternatives for the development and use of forest industry resources, based on available information on the application and use of forest residues.