RAIZ - Forest and Paper Research Institute is a private, non-profit research center, recognized as an EU-BIC entity, a member of the Network of Associations and Clubs for UNESCO and Technology and Innovation Centers (STI).
Their action aims to optimize, from a cost/benefit perspective, the competitive advantages of the national forestry and industrial sector and The Navigator Company, ensuring its sustainability.
Within this framework, it develops its activities aimed at the production and transformation of knowledge into products, technology and services in the fields of forestry, pulp, UWF paper, packaging and tissue. In the field of forest-based bioeconomy, new cellulosic bioproducts, biomaterials, biochemicals and biofuels.
The Institute's activities are funded primarily by The Navigator Company, other private entities, and national and European public funds.
To contribute to the competitiveness and sustainability of the eucalyptus supply chain, from forest to product:
Generating knowledge of excellence;
Providing specialized services and consulting;
Developing innovative solutions that promote a new bioeconomy;
Promoting cooperation with world-class universities and centers of knowledge;
Developing highly qualified and motivated human resources.
To be recognized worldwide as a leading research center, promoting sustainable development and a bioeconomy based on eucalyptus forests.
The Institute divides its activity between two research centers:
Quinta de São Francisco
Quinta de São Francisco, located nine kilometers from the city of Aveiro, has administrative buildings, benchtop laboratories, and central headquarters services, with a covered area of 2600 m2. These spaces underwent renovation in 2017, and now include new support laboratories for tissue and biorefinery areas.
Herdade de Espirra
The research nurseries, hybridization parks, seed orchard, and biotechnology laboratory are located at Herdade de Espirra, in Pegões.
The RAIZ research and technical team works closely with the operational (forestry and industry) and corporate areas of The Navigator Company.
91 Researchers and Technicians
It is also involved in a vast network of national and international universities and R&D centers.
Learn how we are organized.
Discover our laboratories and nurseries.