In the ever-evolving world of sustainable forestry, innovation and technology are vital. One of the key players helping to shape this future is Creative Optimization, a company that specializes in applying cutting-edge mathematical optimization to real-world challenges. Their mission is clear: bridge the gap between advanced research and practical solutions. Within the SingleTree project, that mission comes to life.
Creative Optimization is deeply embedded in the technical core of SingleTree, contributing to several tasks. Their expertise centers on harvest operations, bucking optimization, and product-market logistics — but with a twist. Instead of looking at the forest in broad strokes, the project zooms in, focusing on individual trees as the unit of decision-making.
Their role is expected to expand in the coming year, as they delve deeper into the project’s data and continue refining optimization in the different tasks.
Maximizing Forest Value
The potential benefits of SingleTree’s approach are far-reaching.
“With access to single-tree information, forests can be managed in a way that is more sustainable and builds resilience”, explains the Creative Optimization team.
Trees can be evaluated for their optimal use — as keystone elements for biodiversity, or as the best raw material for specific products, maximizing value both in the forest and at the mill.
This level of precision leads to a dual win: greater economic value and increased ecological resilience. As the forest sector faces growing pressure to balance productivity with sustainability, this data-driven approach could become a game changer.
Picture: Timbertrail of Creative Optimization
Barriers and Realities on the Ground
However, challenges remain. For Creative Optimization one major barrier is data accessibility. Across Europe, there are significant differences in how forests are digitized and managed. Some regions are well-equipped with advanced data collection tools, while others face limitations in resources, infrastructure, or technical readiness.
“SingleTree’s three Living Labs span different geographies and represent a wide range of starting points — from high-tech operations to more traditional forest management systems,” Creative Optimization notes. “The project will demonstrate the benefits of moving toward a more data driven single tree approach, as well as showcase ways of doing so regardless of different starting points and future objectives.”
Parallel Projects, Shared Ambitions
Creative Optimization’s involvement in SingleTree builds on their broader experience in forestry innovation. They are also a partner in OptiForValue, a project funded by the EU CBE JU, which focuses on optimizing forest operations for sustainable management.
“There’s strong alignment between OptiForValue and SingleTree. There are many common objectives in the two projects as well as possible synergies and opportunities for shared learnings,” they explain. Both aim to unlock greater value from forests while maintaining a firm commitment to environmental stewardship. Sharing learnings across these initiatives enhances the impact of both.
