Ronalds W. Gonzalez
Ph.D., MBA (Dr. G) Director, Sustainable & Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI)
North Carolina State University
Associate Professor, Global Expert on Sustainable & Alternative Fibers for Consumer Products | Supply Chain, Conversion, Techno-economics & LCA.
Dr. G. is an Associate Professor at North Carolina State University, specializing in conversion and process economics with a focus on the pulp & paper and hygiene tissue industries. As a dedicated consultant and thought leader, he aims to advance sustainable practices in fiber-based consumer goods. He has been a regular lecturer at Universität für Bo den ku ltur Wien (Austria) and invited lecturer and opponent at Alto University (Finland) and Unversidade Beira Interior (Portugal).
Dr. Gonzalez’s work is recognized globally, notably by the Brazilian Association of Pulp & Paper Technologists. His innovative contributions have earned him the NC State University Faculty Scholar distinction and the Chancellor Innovation Award. With over 100 publications in high-impact scientific journals and trade magazines, Dr. Gonzalez is a prolific author and researcher, showcasing his commitment to the bio- and circular economy.
Research Interests
Leading a dynamic research group at NC State University (Conversion Economics & Sustainability – ConEcSus), Dr. Gonzalez works with companies and federal agencies to accelerate the industrial adoption of emerging and sustainable technologies and materials. He co-founded the Sustainable and Alternative Fibers Initiative (SAFI), a consortium supported by 30 companies (go.ncsu.edu/SAFI), dedicated to promoting responsible sourcing and development of sustainable fibers to combat climate change. Dr. Gonzalez’s research portfolio is valued at over $16 million.
Industrial Experience
With over 15 years of industry experience, Dr. Gonzalez has held leadership positions such as Corporate Controller of Manufacturing and Logistics for the Americas at SCA (Essity) and Controller of Fiber and Pulp Divisions at Smurfit Kappa Carton de Venezuela. His extensive consulting experience includes working with the United States International Trade Commission, International Paper, Domtar, Greenwood Resources, Proteak, Essity, Simply Human, and Evolution Resources, Smurfit Kappa among others.
