The Laboratory of Forest Utilization (LFU – AUTH) was established in 1965 (Bulletin of the Greek Government No 169) and belongs to the Department of Harvesting and Technology of Forest Products of the School of Forestry and Natural Environment of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. Its mission includes:
1. Teaching of obligatory and elective courses at undergraduate and postgraduate students of the School of Forestry and Natural Environment AUTH. In this context, training excursions are organized for the Faculty students. Lab members are responsible for the Summer Practical Training at the University Forest of Pertouli in the subjects of Wood Harvesting and Wood Structure and Properties.
2. Research in the following topics:
- Organization and planning of forest operations.
- Human factors in forest operations
- Promotion of safety and health in wood harvesting
- Energy from woody biomass
- Implementation of modern technologies in forest operations
- Environmental impacts of wood harvesting
- Wood structure and properties
- Development of innovative wood products
- Non-wood forest products
The Lab of Forest Utilization is participating in international networks and faculty and student exchange programs. Its members also participate in research activities, workshops, conferences and initiatives that promote the protection, management and utilization of forests.