Development of Technology Utilizing Wood Thinning in Ryujin Village, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture

Development of Technology Utilizing Wood Thinning in Ryujin Village, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture
In Ryujin Village, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, a highly earthquake-resistant building technology utilizing thinned wood was introduced in 2007 when the "Pod construction method" developed by Kyoto University attracted attention. This method, which combines thinned cedar and cypress wood into boards with square wooden frames, promoted the utilization of local resources while maintaining the health of the forests. 2010s saw the establishment of the "Ryujinzai" brand, and the Ryujin Village Forestry Association produced dunnage and wood chips made from thinned wood, which became an important pillar of the local economy. In the 2020s, wood chips are expected to attract attention as a recyclable resource that contributes to CO₂ reduction, and the "j.Pod method" is expected to be further improved and spread nationwide. This initiative is a model case for achieving both environmental conservation and local revitalization.