UBC’s Bioproducts Institute (BPI) joined Premier David Eby’s trade mission to Asia from June 2–4 to showcase its cutting-edge “Wood Leather” innovation at Expo 2025 in Osaka. The delegation highlighted British Columbia’s leadership in sustainable materials research.
Dr. Gail Murphy, UBC’s Vice-President, Research and Innovation, represented BPI as part of the broader trade mission. BPI industrial designer Ayako Takagi was on the ground in Osaka, engaging directly with international audiences at the Canada Pavilion and sharing the story behind the material.
The centrepiece of BPI’s exhibit was an early prototype of a soccer ball made from wood leather. While still in development, the prototype demonstrated the material’s potential for high-performance applications in sports and other industries. The display aligned with Vancouver’s preparations to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup—a timely platform for showcasing sustainable innovation.
BPI’s wood leather is a renewable alternative to conventional leather, engineered from wood fibres, as part of the team’s exploration of new uses for B.C.’s abundant forest resources. The leather is durable, versatile and leaves a smaller environmental footprint than animal-based or fossil fuel-derived leathers. The innovation opens up new possibilities for B.C.’s forestry sector by creating novel uses for wood byproducts in fashion, automotive and industrial design.
Dr. Orlando Rojas, Scientific Director of BPI, said “The leather-like wood we created is a prototype, an invitation to explore the transformative potential of advanced wood materials. With minimal modification, these renewable materials can move from structural roles in construction to wearables and functional devices that harvest energy or enhance quality of life. This is just a glimpse into how nature-inspired innovations can redefine material performance. Through this work, we aim to position British Columbia at the forefront of the global shift toward sustainable, high-performance materials, where design, function, and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.”
One of the most memorable moments at the Osaka Expo was when participants interacted with the soccer ball prototype, said designer Ayako Takagi. “As an industrial designer working in a science lab alongside researchers, I witness the passion and dedication that go into developing sustainable materials. However, the complexity of scientific research often makes it difficult for general audiences to understand and imagine its broader importance. They were surprised by the contrast between its wooden appearance and its unexpectedly soft texture. After touching it, they smiled and began brainstorming ideas for what could be made with the material.I’m grateful that this opportunity allowed us to share the excitement of our project in a way that bridges disciplines and cultures.”
- Author: Lou Corpuz-Bosshart, UBC Media Relations
Relevant Articles:
- BPI’s wood leather project and research in sustainable materials
- UBC innovators unveil novel wood leather soccer ball at Expo 2025 (via Capital Current)
- UBC advances global partnerships on Premier’s Asia trade mission