Could Hawaiʻi’s eucalyptus forests become a new source of building materials?

Reading time: 2 minutesUniversity of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa researchers are working to determine whether Hawaiʻi-grown eucalyptus could become a reliable source of lumber for construction, helping reduce the state’s reliance on imported building materials while supporting healthier forests. Researchers also say putting more eucalyptus to use could encourage better forest management by reducing excess wood that can contribute to wildfire fuel. The findings will help establish engineering design values needed for commercial construction and could lay the groundwork for future engineered wood products made in Hawaiʻi. Wang’s team received an $8,000 American Society for Engineering Education grant to incorporate Hawaiʻi-grown eucalyptus into civil engineering courses. The new curriculum will give students hands-on experience evaluating sustainable building materials by comparing locally grown eucalyptus with conventional construction materials.