Development History of Thinned Wood Utilization Technology in Ryujin Village, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture (2000s-2020s)

Development History of Thinned Wood Utilization Technology in Ryujin Village, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture (2000s-2020s)

2000s: The budding of wood thinning technology
In Ryujin Village, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, the effective use of wood from thinning became an important issue for the local community, and the "Pod method" began to attract attention in 2007. This method was developed by a Kyoto University research team, which used cedar and cypress thinnings to combine rectangular wooden frames to create a box-shaped building structure that ensures earthquake resistance. At the time, a model facility was scheduled to be built near the Atelier Ryujin no Ie in Ryujin Village, and plans were underway for it to serve as a base for local residents and artists. This period was the beginning of an effort to utilize local resources while preventing forest devastation.

2010s: Spreading the Technology and Strengthening the Local Brand
In the 2010s, the use of thinned wood began to spread nationwide, and the "Ryujinzai" brand was established in Ryujin Village. During this period, the Ryujin Village Forestry Association took the lead in the production of products using thinned wood. Dunnage, piles, wood chips, and other products processed from local thinned wood were marketed and became an important source of income for the local economy. In addition, the "Pod construction method" developed by Kyoto University was recognized as a building technology with high seismic performance and production-ready for local production, and its use by local lumber mills and construction firms expanded. This has further enhanced the value of thinned wood utilization and has become a model case for sustainable forest management.

2020s: Growing Environmental Awareness and Utilization of Recyclable Resources
In the 2020s, Ryujin Village, Wakayama Prefecture, saw further progress in the linkage between forest conservation and local industry. Through its thinned wood distribution center, the Ryujin Village Forestry Association manufactures and sells wood chips and other products, which are attracting attention as a recyclable resource that contributes to CO₂ emissions reduction. In addition, Kyoto University's "j.Pod construction method" has been improved to a rib frame structure combining metal plates and wood, and is expected to spread nationwide as a technology that both utilizes local materials and has high earthquake resistance performance. Through these efforts, Ryujin Village is attracting attention as an advanced example of sustainable forest management and regional revitalization.

Conclusion
Initiatives to utilize wood from thinning that began in the 2000s were put to practical use and spread in the 2010s, and continue to develop as a model case for a recycling-oriented society in the 2020s. Ryujin Village's "Ryujinzai" and "j.Pod construction method" are widely recognized as successful examples that symbolize the compatibility of environmental conservation and local economy.