As the profitability of traditional cellulose-based products, paper and cardboard, fluctuates in the global market, Finland has begun making major investments in developing the qualities of pulp and finding new use applications for it. Today, pulp is utilised in packaging, insulants, clothing and composite materials.
Major companies focused on cellulose production and further processing operate in the Joensuu region. The most well-known further processed products from the region are manufactured by companies producing wood-plastic composites.
The University of Eastern Finland conducts research in the field, particularly related to the manufacturing of nanocellulose, and the qualities of the fibres and fine matter in dissolving pulp. The University of Eastern Finland is also actively involved in the product development of wood-plastic composites.
