Birmingham Institute of Forest Research (BIFoR)

BIFoR was a unique project for the University of Birmingham. The project encompassed the delivery of an experiment enabling scientists to conduct a 10-year study analysing the effects of global warming on a mature temperate deciduous forest ecosystem. The experiment came with strict criteria and extremely complex site and delivery requirements.

The study observes and measures the effects of elevated CO2 levels on a variety of conditions such as trees, temperature, climate, nutrient supply, and interactions with pests and pathogens. The elevated levels of CO2 will be provided by a complex arrangement of FACE (Free-Air Carbon dioxide Enrichment methodology) towers arranged in tall rings throughout the forest.

It was imperative the construction of the project had little to no impact on the site, as this would alter the experiments results. To ensure minimal impact on the site parts of the construction were delivered and installed from above via helicopters. Every alternative delivery solution was explored in this one-of-a-kind project.