Development of advanced veneer and other products from coconut wood to enhance livelihoods in South Pacific communities

Abstract

Coconut plantations are a valuable economic and social resource for many communities in South Pacific Islands. However, many palms are senile, have lost much of their vitality and productivity, and act as a major constraint on improved agricultural production. Yet, they present a significant opportunity for a sustainable increase in wood production. Over 65,000 hectares of senile coconuts, or 6.3 million senile stems, are thought to exist in the
three South Pacific countries participating in this project.
The project aimed to develop the technologies, processes and expertise to produce high quality veneer and complementary soil conditioning products from senile coconut stems on an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable basis and thereby enhance
livelihoods in South Pacific communities. Achieving this could support community acceptance and action for an orderly and profitable senile coconut plantation renewal
program in South Pacific communities.