Paulownia is an extremely strong light hardwood which possesses multiple characteristics and qualities that makes it highly prized and in demand by the Timber industry globally.
In Malaysia, Finterra Global Plantations, through its venture and together with its partners has been planting Paulownia trees to be harvested and supplied to meet the needs of the Timber industry. As a tree that is well known globally for its fast growth and high quality timber, it is important to understand the benefits which Paulownia can offer to the industry.
1. Industrial benefits
A Paulownia tree lifecycle is about 4 to 5 years. However, the tree itself can be harvested within just 40 months normally with a bark circumference of 12 inches (1 ft.). This relatively short cycle allows for timber to be supplied from a mature tree to the sawmills in a much shorter period. This in turns helps meet the insatiable demand from the industry and reduces their dependence on timber from the virgin rainforest. Some of the qualities the Paulownia tree possesses include;
Not splintering easily.
Having low shrinkage.
Having less warping.
Serves as a good sound conductor.
Is waterproof and buoyant.
Looks great aesthetically.
Is fire resistant.
Good insulator with low thermal conductivity.
Strong and durable.
Is light weight and easy to work with.
2. Environmental benefits
Apart from these excellent qualities, the planting of Paulownia trees is crucial in the fight against climate change and illegal logging. The specific tree species which Finterra Global Plantations plants in its plantation offers numerous qualities which benefits the environment. These qualities also support Malaysia’s mission of enforcing the reforestation efforts and reducing the timber industry’s dependence on virgin rainforest. Finterra Global Plantation’s management is also conducted in accordance with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria and supports Goal 13 of the UN 17 goals of Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Some of the environmental benefits which Paulownia offers include;
Absorbing 10 times more carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and producing 10 times more oxygen (O2) as compared to other tree species.
Fast growing and non-invasive.
Improves and restores organic top soil.
Minimizes the chances of soil erosion.
Decreases nitrate leaching into ground water.
Allows for animal wastes to be used as fertilizer.
Helps in nitrogen fixation.
Has shown to bring wild life (migrating birds) back to the forest.
Paulownia trees’ plantation in Ipoh, Perak.
3. Regeneration
One of the most exceptional qualities the Paulownia tree possesses is that it is able to regenerate once harvested. This quality also supports its sustainability as it doesn’t require trees to be uprooted once harvested and negates the need to burn the land when clearing (which happens in many cases) to replant. This is a special quality of Paulownia’s regeneration that can happen up to 6 cycles. It should be mentioned that the quality of the regenerated tree gets better with every regrowth as the root system is already in place and firmly placed in the soil. This makes the tree a perfect option as no additional funds are required to clear or to replant the trees. In the case of some other tree species, harvesting of Paulownia can take place at any time of the year regardless the climate. This has no adverse effect on the tree but is associated to other tree species.
A Paulownia tree after regeneration.
Finterra Global Plantations currently offers investors an opportunity to be part of this project through our alternative investment opportunity. The opportunity is well structured, is Shari’ah compliant and offers investors with high yields, consistent returns from the start of their investment and capital back upon maturity of a 40 months’ tenure. Those keen to participate, can contact info@finterraventures.com.
