On 22 May 2025, the PA8 flagship project DRWO4.0. held its second thematic meeting in the Rijeka, Croatia, focusing on the application of LEAN methodology and non-destructive testing (NDT) methods in the wood industry. The event gathered experts, industry partners, and stakeholders from across the Danube Region to share knowledge and strengthen capacities for the sector’s digital and green transition.
The participants were addressed with introductory words from the Project partner CULMENA from Croatia and the Croatian PP8 coordinator also in the capacity as the Associated Strategic Partner/ASP, who presented the significance of this flagship project for 2025 for PA8 EUSDR, transnational synergy, the linkage with PA8 working groups and circular bioeconomy activities, stakeholders in the wood industry process for the purpose of creating synergies and supporting Industry 4.0/5.0 in creating high added value in forestry and wood industry, based on smart and digital solutions.
An insightful lecture was held on the Human-Centric Digital Twin concept, an innovative link between Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0, highlighting the importance of placing people at the core of digital transformation and aligning technology with workforce and societal needs.
Participants then explored a detailed case study from MARLES, showcasing successful implementation of LEAN principles in wood processing and the tangible benefits of optimizing production workflows. The session also covered educational and training opportunities in LEAN methodology, underscoring lifelong learning as a key driver of sustainable and efficient business transformation.
The highlight was the focus on advanced non-destructive testing methods for wood-based materials, where experts from the University of Pécs Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology demonstrated cutting-edge technologies that enable precise, damage-free analysis. These innovations represent a crucial step forward in enhancing digital quality control and resource efficiency in wood manufacturing.