woodchips

Woodchips are small pieces of wood produced by chipping larger pieces of wood. They are typically generated from sawmill residues, forest thinnings, or logging waste. The size of woodchips can vary significantly depending on the chipping equipment and intended use. Their production is a common practice in forestry and woodworking industries.

Woodchips have a wide range of applications. They are frequently used as mulch in gardening and landscaping to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature. In this capacity, they help improve the aesthetic appeal of gardens and reduce the need for watering. Woodchips are also utilized as a biomass fuel source for heating and electricity generation, offering a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Their combustion can be a way to repurpose wood waste.

Another significant use of woodchips is in the pulp and paper industry, where they are a primary raw material for paper production. They are processed to extract cellulose fibers. Furthermore, woodchips can be used in construction as an aggregate in lightweight concrete or as bedding material for livestock. They can also be incorporated into animal enclosures for absorbent and odor-controlling purposes. The environmental impact of woodchip production and use is generally considered positive when sourced sustainably, as it contributes to waste reduction and the utilization of renewable resources.