LIGNA 2025: Sustainable production as a key topic for the future

LIGNA 2025 is focusing on sustainable production in response to profound changes within the wood industry. From 26 to 30 May, Hanover will once again become the meeting place for the woodworking and wood processing industry. Under the theme of ‘Sustainable Production’, the world's leading trade fair will show how ecological responsibility, technological innovation and economic requirements can be combined. LIGNA sees itself not only as a showcase for new machines and systems, but also as an orientation platform in a market that is increasingly measured by resource efficiency, energy consumption and climate targets. The wood industry faces the task of reconciling growing demand for sustainable products with limited resources and volatile conditions. LIGNA 2025 addresses these challenges and makes it clear that sustainable production is no longer an isolated issue, but permeates all areas of value creation – from forestry and industrial processing to digital control and optimisation solutions.

Digitalisation meets resource-saving solutions

Many exhibitors at LIGNA 2025 are focusing specifically on the combination of digitalisation and resource efficiency. Companies such as Siemens, LINCK and Fagus-GreCon are showing how digital technologies can help to reduce material usage, avoid waste and make processes more transparent. Among other things, Siemens is demonstrating AI-supported quality testing and edge computing solutions that enable early fault detection, thereby minimising energy and material losses. LINCK focuses on maximum value extraction, especially in the processing of small-diameter wood. Digital platforms such as myLINCK provide real-time data on plant availability and process quality, thus creating the basis for more efficient use of existing resources. Fagus-GreCon complements this approach with smart measurement technology that precisely records material consumption and reveals optimisation potential along the production chain. LIGNA 2025 thus demonstrates that digitalisation is a key lever for sustainable production in the wood industry.

Technology drivers focus on economic efficiency and future-proofing

At LIGNA, sustainability is not viewed in isolation from economic issues. Many exhibitors emphasise that resource-efficient production can only be successful if it remains economically viable. Venjakob, for example, is presenting automated coating lines that enable sustainable surface solutions while increasing productivity and quality. Efficiency gains are achieved through precise process control, lower material consumption and reduced downtime. Such solutions are becoming increasingly important in a highly competitive environment. Rising energy prices, a shortage of skilled workers and increasing regulatory requirements are forcing companies to continuously review their production processes. LIGNA 2025 provides a forum for personal exchange between manufacturers, users and technology providers. Many companies use the trade fair specifically to prepare concrete investment decisions and gain new ideas for their production.

Sustainable production as a strategic factor

The discussion about sustainable production in the wood industry goes beyond individual technologies. At LIGNA 2025, it will become clear that sustainability is increasingly understood as a strategic factor. Issues such as energy efficiency, CO₂ reduction and the circular economy influence not only production processes, but also business models and market positioning. Companies that invest in sustainable technologies at an early stage gain competitive advantages and strengthen their future security. At the same time, the trade fair shows that sustainable production can take many different forms. While some companies rely on highly automated, digitally networked systems, others pursue a modular approach that enables step-by-step optimisation. LIGNA 2025 reflects this diversity and offers guidance for companies of all sizes.

50 years of LIGNA – a driving force in turbulent times

On its 50th anniversary, LIGNA can look back on a long history as a driving force for the wood industry. For five decades, it has accompanied technological upheavals, new materials and changing market requirements. The anniversary underscores the trade fair's role as a platform where innovation and practice come together. At the same time, LIGNA 2025 is clearly looking ahead. Global trade conflicts, geopolitical uncertainties and increasing energy efficiency requirements are shaping the industry's environment. In this context, the trade fair offers a stable platform for international exchange and market-oriented solutions. Sustainable production is seen as a key issue that combines technological development, economic stability and ecological responsibility. LIGNA 2025 shows that the wood industry is ready to actively shape this path. With innovation, willingness to invest and international networking, the industry is positioning itself for the coming years – and using the trade fair as a place to make the future tangible.