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Forest Biomaterials Researchers Developing Sustainable Alternative to Plastic Foam Packaging

Research and Innovation

Discover the innovative research our faculty and students devote themselves to year around. At the College of Natural Resources, we are working to create a healthier and more sustainable planet across various disciplines — including paper science and engineering, forest management and wildlife conservation, and parks, recreation and tourism management.

Close-up of bright orange flames and thick gray smoke rising, capturing the intensity of a fire. - Hurricane Helene's Aftermath Fuels Heightened Wildfire Risk in Western North Carolina - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Nov 4, 2025

Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath Fuels Heightened Wildfire Risk in Western North Carolina

The region faces lasting wildfire danger as storm debris fuels flames and complicates recovery efforts.
Faculty Lokendra Pal wearing safety glasses looks at a computer screen in a modern laboratory with paper and pulp testing equipment. - Electric Power Could Bring Paper Mills to Net Zero Emissions - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Oct 16, 2025

Electric Power Could Bring Paper Mills to Net Zero Emissions

A study finds that replacing natural gas with electric and biomass power, along with improved energy efficiency, could help some pulp and paper mills reach zero net emissions.
A view of a snow-covered mountain, trees in the foreground. - When Public Lands Get Political: What a Hatch Act Complaint Says About the Future of Conservation - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Oct 15, 2025

When Public Lands Get Political: What a Hatch Act Complaint Says About the Future of Conservation

A Hatch Act complaint highlights growing political influence in public land management and its potential impact on conservation and bipartisan support.
Longleaf pines in the Croatan National Forest, North Carolina - Hurricanes Can Increase Wildfire Risk, Expert Says - College of Natural Resources News at NC State University

Oct 14, 2025

Reviving a Southern Icon: How Science is Securing the Future of Longleaf Pine

A collaborative research effort is underway to enhance the genetic diversity and adaptability of longleaf pine for future forests.
Half Dome at Yosemite is bathed in warm sunset light, creating a striking orange glow on the granite. Foreground features tall evergreen trees. - What a Government Shutdown Means for National Parks - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Oct 13, 2025

What a Government Shutdown Means for National Parks

A government shutdown can limit park access and staff, threatening resources and local economies — highlighting the need for reliable funding to keep parks open and protected.
Aerial view of a colorful mini-pitch. - Mini-Pitches Create Healthier Communities by Offering Safe, Accessible Recreation Spaces - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Sep 18, 2025

Mini-Pitches Create Healthier Communities by Offering Safe, Accessible Recreation Spaces

North Carolina State University researchers found that mini-pitches play a crucial role in increasing physical activity and community engagement among youth and families living in underserved communities.
Aerial view of Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina during autumn - Fall Foliage in North Carolina: What to Expect This Year - College of Natural Resources News at NC State

Sep 15, 2025

Fall Foliage in North Carolina: What to Expect This Year

Fall foliage will likely peak in the mountains in mid-October, followed by the Piedmont region in late October and the Coastal Plain region in early November.
Several beer glasses lined up on a wooden bar counter. - Global Trade Tensions Threaten North Carolina's Craft Brewing Industry, Expert Says - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Jul 31, 2025

Global Trade Tensions Threaten North Carolina’s Craft Brewing Industry, Expert Says

Heightened tariffs on imported aluminum and steel could have significant consequences for the industry, including decreased sales and revenue.
Close-up of a FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 soccer ball resting on the grass. - FIFA World Cup: Can It Leave Behind a Positive and Lasting Human Rights Legacy? - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Jul 29, 2025

FIFA World Cup: Can It Leave Behind a Positive and Lasting Human Rights Legacy?

The international soccer tournament has been linked to a range of human rights violations, including migrant worker exploitation, restrictions on freedom of expression, and much more.
Stacks of styrofoam in various thicknesses. - Forest Biomaterials Researchers Developing Sustainable Alternative to Plastic Foam Packaging - College of Natural Resources News NC State University

Jul 2, 2025

Forest Biomaterials Researchers Developing Sustainable Alternative to Plastic Foam Packaging

The fiber-based material, which is fully recyclable and biodegradable, could someday replace plastic foam materials used in cushioning and insulation for packaging.