THUNDER BAY — A new study suggests an imminent surge in mineral exploration and processing also provides a new opportunity for the forest industry.  The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission released a report Tuesday that outlines several benefits from using mass timber buildings rather than traditional construction methods at minesites.  CEO Jamie Taylor said the study undertaken by the commission presents “a compelling case for mass timber as a cornerstone of sustainable development” in Northwestern Ontario.  … It found that mass timber buildings show a significant reduction in global warming potential over a 30-year span compared with other building methods, effectively emitting half the amount of carbon.  …There are social advantages as well, given that the availability of seamless disassembly means structures could be repurposed, thereby offering flexibility in community planning.