Gregory Paradis

Some recent and ongoing research project titles and synopses listed below, you give potential graduate students, postdocs, collaborators, and research partners an idea of the types of projects we are working on in the FRESH lab. Note that we have a long queue of new (not yet launched) project ideas staged and waiting for the right people and funding to converge—reach out to Dr. Gregory Paradis to discuss potential opportunities to join the FRESH lab (as a postdoc or graduate student), or potential collaboration or partnership opportunities.

Project title: Integrated modelling of strategic forest management and industrial capacity planning in the Canadian forest sector 
Project synopsis: This project focuses on creating integrated models to optimize strategic forest management and industrial capacity planning within Canada’s forest sector. Employing advanced methodologies—simulation, optimization, hybrid approaches, and machine learning—the research will address sustainability challenges by redesigning processes to enhance ecosystem resilience, mitigate climate change, and boost supply chain efficiency. The project also integrates biogenic carbon modeling for climate change scenarios and emphasizes collaboration with policymakers through open-source tools, datasets, and publications. Case studies in British Columbia and Quebec will validate the models, offering actionable insights for a sustainable bioeconomy and fostering multidisciplinary collaboration for nature-smart climate solutions.

Project title: Newmont Nature-Based Decarbonization (scoping study)
Project synopsis: This project explores nature-based decarbonization strategies for Newmont’s Canadian mining operations to support its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. A scoping study will evaluate carbon capture potential in forests, wetlands, and soils near mining sites, analyzing feasibility, cost, and environmental benefits. The study integrates systems modeling, stakeholder engagement, and First Nations participation to identify sustainable and socially impactful solutions. Deliverables include a detailed technical report, datasets, and modeling frameworks to inform Newmont’s strategic decarbonization investments. This research establishes a foundation for scalable nature-based carbon capture strategies that address climate change while fostering biodiversity and community partnerships.

Project title: Modelling the forest-based biomass solution space in BC
Project synopsis: This project models forest-based biomass supply chains in British Columbia to support sustainable bioenergy development. Collaborating with Tsi Del Del Enterprises Ltd., it evaluates biomass availability, cost, and environmental and social impacts under business-as-usual and alternative scenarios. By integrating advanced modeling techniques, the research generates decision-support tools for sustainable forest management and biomass planning. The project emphasizes First Nations’ leadership in the bioeconomy, addressing biomass sourcing for energy, biofuels, and ecosystem restoration. Deliverables include detailed reports, reusable frameworks, and actionable insights for stakeholders, advancing clean energy initiatives and supporting local communities’ economic and environmental goals.

Project title: Advancing BC's Bioeconomy: Assessing Biomass Supply Chain Impacts for Sustainable Bioproduct Scaling
Project synopsis: This project assesses the biomass supply chain impacts critical for scaling sustainable bioproducts in British Columbia. By integrating forestry and agricultural land-use models with bioproduct production process simulations, it identifies biomass availability, supply constraints, and sustainability pathways under “supply push” and “demand pull” scenarios. Outcomes include strategic insights for optimizing biomass use, supporting local economies, and aligning with BC’s bioeconomy goals. The research will guide policymakers and stakeholders in promoting sustainable practices, reducing carbon emissions, and fostering rural economic development. The project advances BC’s leadership in the global bioeconomy by linking environmental, economic, and community objectives through actionable frameworks.

Project title: Accelerating technology readiness level for open-innovation decision support systems (nature-smart climate solutions)
Project synopsis: This project advances technology readiness for open-innovation decision support systems enabling nature-smart climate solutions. By stabilizing modular software, integrating open datasets, and refining tools like forest carbon and supply chain models, it facilitates actionable insights for practitioners. Outputs include a robust library of open-source tools, applications, and training materials, supporting scalable, participatory decision-making in forest ecosystems. These innovations enhance interoperability, reduce barriers to entry, and align with climate mitigation goals. The initiative fosters collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders, driving adoption of sustainable forest management and bioeconomy strategies across Canada through transparent, reproducible modeling frameworks.

Project title: Developing an open modeling system for cumulative effects within Canada’s managed forests
Project synopsis: This project integrates two open-source platforms—Wood Supply Software System (ws3) and SpaDES—to evaluate cumulative effects in Canada’s managed forests. It focuses on linking timber supply modeling with carbon budget analysis to assess impacts of harvesting, natural disturbances, and climate change. Deliverables include interoperable modules, cumulative effects scenarios, and open-source tools for large-scale forest carbon modeling. By addressing current gaps in data and interoperability, the project supports transparent and reproducible decision-making for sustainable forest management. Outputs include a peer-reviewed manuscript and accessible software tools, advancing Canada’s capability to balance forest carbon stocks with operational timber supply needs.

Project title: Cumulative effects of Climate Change, Anthropogenic and Natural Disturbances on forest Ecosystem Services (CCCANDiES)
Project synopsis: The CCCANDiES project develops innovative models to assess cumulative effects of climate change, anthropogenic activities, and natural disturbances on forest ecosystem services in Canada. It integrates forest ecosystem process models with supply chain and management decision tools, emphasizing open innovation. By enhancing data interoperability and transparency, the project improves forecasting of ecosystem changes, enabling sustainable management practices. Deliverables include advanced simulation tools, provincial and national datasets, and decision-support frameworks for carbon storage, biodiversity, and timber supply. The research supports climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable economic development, benefiting Canadian forests, communities, and policymakers through actionable insights.