The P&P sector has been an antiquated, unsophisticated sunset industry, suggests TAPPI's IBBC 2018 Keynote Speaker, Martin Pudlas. But even an aging industry can adjust to shifting tides and, through innovation, reinvent itself to catch a new wave of opportunity.

That opportunity is renewable materials and the industry is well positioned to benefit from the new markets it represents. In addition, legacy products the pulp industry is known for still have a good future, and are the best alternative for wood residuals, notes Pudlas. Given the strong financial base of the industry, there is great opportunity to explore new pathways to further fractionate wood into products beyond pulp, paper and green electrical energy.

Gain further insight into the market potential and challenges that exist for the industry as it reinvents itself during TAPPI’s 2018 International Bioenergy & Bioproducts Conference (IBBC), Oct. 28-31, 2018 in Portland, Oregon. Pudlas, whose keynote presentation is titled, "The Pulp and Paper Industry – What do you see?" is the Vice President of Operations and Innovation at Canfor Pulp Products, Inc. Pudlas speaks on Tuesday, October 30 at 8:30am.

IBBC’s peer-reviewed technical program addresses critical topics currently affecting the industry as well as explores new innovations and markets for the future. Session topics include biorefinery infrastructure, torrefaction and densification, lignin, nanotechnology, and nonwoods. It also includes two sessions focused specifically on new advancements and technologies for value-added products. Attendees can also take advantage of multiple networking opportunities, a Rapid Fire Showcase and Student Poster session as well as Hot Topics breakfasts where attendees discuss industry issues with their peers.

IBBC will once again be co-located with TAPPI’s Pulping, Engineering, Environmental, Recycling and Sustainability (PEERS) Conference which offers a comprehensive technical program comprised of seven topic-specific tracks focused on today’s most pressing issues. Attendees can attend the technical programs of both conferences for the price of one. Register today!

Learn more at tappi-ibbc.org and tappipeers.org.