Team Spotlight - Raju Pokharel

Meet Dr. Raju Pokharel, Assistant Professor of Forest Resource Economics. Dr. Pokharel is the fourth masstimber affiliated member to be featured in our spotlight segment, stay turned for another spotlight next Friday!

Tell us about the work you do related to mass timber: 

"I am doing two projects with DNR to identify and analyze the mass timber production in Michigan. The first project analyzes softwood amiability and the potential location of mass timber for mass timber facilities. We are also estimating the economic impact of mass timber production in the state. In the second study (with Sandra et al.), we analyze the demand and supply of mass timber, evaluate the industry impact in the forest sector and forest product industry, policy responses and effects, and identify the optimal location and capacity for mass timber production in the state." 

What impact do you hope your work will have? 

"Our work will provide decision support for legislators as well and investors interested in mass timber production in Michigan." 

How does your Mass Timber work fit into your broader research or teaching? 

"Mass timber stores carbon and is an emerging forest product that displaces concrete structures that would help develop markets as well as provide climate solutions. My research is all about developing markets for wood products and providing climate solutions." 

What do you love most about your work? 

"I get to work with new and innovative ideas with smart people." 

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