Despite the grey Stockholm weather, the session for Young Researchers was indeed a nuanced start of the first day of the Marcus Wallenberg Prize Ceremony. Prof. Kaj Rosén introduced the discussion on the forest industry´s challenge to solve future problems of resource shortage and climate change. He also touched upon the need of the forestry sector to scan society for weak signals and sense forthcoming changes in order to swiftly adapt to a changing world.

Dr. Markku Karlsson talked about the importance of adding value to forestry products, which ignited a lively discussion among the young researchers present. Are we going from bulk products to specialty products? Is the nano fibrillated cellulose really “bio”? Is the eucalyptus friend or foe? Stay tuned for a full report after the second day of the MWP ceremony!

The day ended with a majestic banquette at the Grand Hotel, where young researchers were intertwined with corporate officials, academics, businessmen and royalty. All while listening to opera.