Systematic Review: Climate and Non-Climate Factors Influencing Wood Density in the Boreal Zone

Abstract

Wood density is a crucial factor in determining the quality of wood in boreal ecosystems within the Northern Hemisphere. Climate variables play a significant role in shaping wood density, posing challenges for forest managers and stakeholders in the wood industry to adapt amidst climate change. However, our current understanding of these effects remains incomplete. This systematic literature review explores the multifaceted influences on wood density in the boreal zone, encompassing both climate-related and non-climatic factors. The findings demonstrate that warmer temperatures can cause both increases and decreases in wood density, primarily due to their impact on tracheid lignification and cell wall thickening. Nonetheless, the outcome depends on various factors, including species type, age, soil conditions, presence of pests and diseases, fire, windstorms, and silviculture practices. The quantification of complex relationships between these factors and wood density has been insufficient in existing literature. Understanding the impacts of both climate and non-climate factors on wood density is essential for fostering a sustainable wood industry, while effectively mitigating adverse effects and maximizing benefits. Forest managers can leverage this knowledge to optimize wood production strategies, ensuring long-term ecological resilience amidst the increasingly variable climate challenges.