Forest Products Industry

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) welcomes the successful conclusion of the resumed UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16.2) in Rome, which has delivered crucial agreements on resource mobilization and the financial mechanisms to implement it.  Source: Timberbiz With the focus now shifting to implementation, delegates also adopted other pending decisions to help advance the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), including mechanisms for planning, monitoring, reporting, and reviewing. For the first time in biodiversity negotiations, countries have agreed to a text specifically on tracking their own progress, including the way that the indicators will be measured and used. This will ensure that all Parties are tracking progress in a way that can be interpreted by national policymakers and provide data that can be aggregated up to the global level to provide an integral picture of implementation for the KMGBF. FSC welcomes the outcomes of the Rome meeting, particularly the decisions made on biodiversity monitoring and reporting. As a mission-based market influencer, FSC is pleased to see the increasing recognition of the role of the market, for example in Target 15, which requires governments “to set legal, administrative, or policy measures” to encourage and enable the private sector to monitor, assess, and transparently disclose their risks, dependencies and impacts on biodiversity. This is an important step in tackling the biodiversity challenge we still face, and we look forward to helping the business sector relying on forests to understand their forest biodiversity impacts better and take necessary actions to move their businesses towards creating a forest-positive world. For companies using FSC certification, it already provides robust tools to collect data, make verifiable claims, and find markets that bring additional financial value to the protection and maintenance of critical ecosystem services. These tools empower foresters and businesses across consumer and investment value chains to demonstrate their sustainability efforts and comply with other sustainability reporting and disclosure frameworks, such as the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD). “For over 30 years, FSC has promoted sustainable forest management practices that enable forest stewards to conserve, improve, restore essential ecosystem services including biodiversity,” said FSC Director General, Subhra Bhattacharjee. “The decisions taken in Rome validate our approach and create new opportunities for the forest sector to demonstrate leadership in climate action.” The outcomes of COP16.2 create momentum for forest-dependent businesses to strengthen their commitment to nature by certifying their forest management operations, deforestation-free supply chains, and investing in biodiversity conservation and restoration initiatives. Business action is essential to achieving all targets and goals of the KMGBF. FSC certification offers a strong, ready-to-use framework to support these efforts to-wards 2030. As we approach the Climate COP30 in 2025, FSC remains committed to working with businesses, governments, and civil society to accelerate the transition to forest stewardship. By choosing FSC, companies contribute to achieving the goals of the KMGBF and building resilience in their operations while meeting growing stakeholder expectations for environmental and social responsibility.

The Arbor Day Foundation and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) recognized 210 communities as 2024 Tree Cities of the World. Source: Timberbiz The joint program contributes to FAO’s Green Cities initiative, which is designed to strengthen green infrastructure in both urban and rural communities. This year marks the largest number of cities ever honoured since the Tree Cities of the World program began in 2018, celebrating cities and towns that leverage urban forestry to enhance the liveability and sustainability of their local area. “The cities recognized for 2024 are leading by example in providing green spaces and infrastructure that help define a sense of place and well-being where people live, work, play and learn,” said Zhimin Wu, Director of FAO’s Forestry Division. “When properly planned, green spaces and infrastructure can mitigate the risk of natural disasters, contribute to climate change adaptation strategies, enhance social cohesion and make cities safer and more resilient.” Sophie Plitt, program manager at the Arbor Day Foundation said: “Tree Cities of the World is more than a recognition program. It’s a rapidly growing global movement, transforming how communities view and value their urban forest. It goes beyond borders, connecting passionate organizers and tireless tree planters, and uniting them under the shared mission of making our world’s communities healthier places to live. “This record-breaking 2024 class is a testament to the power of trees in every corner of the world and we’re excited to honour these cities and their important work.” This year’s 210 Tree Cities of the World represent 24 countries and six continents. The Tree Cities of the World program includes communities ranging in population size from 1,500 to 12 million people. Globally, more than 134 million people live in Tree Cities of the World, speaking 37 major languages. By gaining recognition through the program, many municipalities have garnered increased funding for community forest management, access to a unique global network of urban forestry professionals, and greater local support for canopy growth. “In 2024, the City of Toronto planted over 130,000 trees, managed over 1,000 hectares of natural area parkland, and made significant strides to achieve equitable distribution of the urban forest across our diverse city,” said Teresa Bosco, Manager of Forest Policy and Planning for Toronto, Canada. “We are thrilled to be part of a growing global network of cities recognized for their dedication to building strong and resilient urban forests and being leaders in stewardship, resource allocation, and innovation.” To earn Tree Cities of the World recognition, a city must uphold five core standards: establish responsibility for the care of trees; enact a law or policy that governs the management of trees and forests; maintain an updated assessment of local tree resources; allocate resources for a tree management plan; and hold an annual celebration of trees to educate local residents. Click here to see a full list of the recognized 2024 Tree Cities of the World. https://treecitiesoftheworld.org/directory.cfm

Professor John Ralph has joined Scion as its newest Emeritus Scientist. Having retired from his full-time role as a Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Mr Ralph joins Scion to advance the bioeconomy through his pioneering work in sustainable forestry and lignin research. Source: Timberbiz His efforts will bolster New Zealand’s leadership in fossil-free resource innovation. Mr Ralph’s 43-year career began at New Zealand Forest Research Institute (now Scion) in1974 and centres on what he calls the “unrivaled role of chemistry in unlocking lignin’s secrets.” A plant cell wall science innovator, he has developed advanced NMR methods and redesigned lignins for better biomass processing. His work earned him the 2024 Marcus Wallenberg Prize from the King of Sweden for advancing lignin understanding. The Marcus Wallenberg Prize is a prestigious international award often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Forestry.” He has advised global bioenergy leaders, including the US Department of Energy’s Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Centre and the British Royal Society. Mr Ralph holds a B.Sc. (Hons) in Chemistry from Canterbury University, New Zealand (1976), and a PhD in Chemistry and Forestry from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (1982). His current research at Scion’s NMR Suite explores lignin biosynthesis and valorization, enhancing biofuel and bioproduct efficiency, supported by collaborators like the US Department of Energy and Swiss National Fund. On his recent visit to Rotorua, he explored our newly upgraded NMR facility and toured the campus to engage with key members of our science team, including Stefan Hill, Florian Graichen, and Marie Joo Le Guen. Mr Ralph was clearly impressed by the new suite, describing it as “one of the most beautiful labs” he’s seen for NMR. His passion for advanced analytical chemistry shone through and he encouraged everyone with an interest in chemistry to engage with the new facility, “anyone who knows any chemistry should have NMR as part of their arsenal.”

The urgent need for social and affordable housing in Australia is undeniable. The global call for responsible sourcing and source disclosure is equally pressing, driven by Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. Source: Timberbiz These two critical challenges intersect in the innovative use of timber construction, a topic explored in depth at the recent WoodSolutions webinar, “Innovative Timber Construction Solutions for Social and Affordable Housing.” Responsible Wood was proud to be a part of this important conversation with our Sustainability Manager, Matt de Jongh, who contributed expertise on responsible procurement and certification’s role in contributing to ESG. The webinar showcased the Haven Home Safe (HHS) project in Horsham, Victoria, a 25-home development built using modular, carbon-storing, and low embodied emission timber construction. This project is a great example of how combining prefabricated de-sign, responsible sourcing, and energy-efficient solutions can deliver impactful housing outcomes that address social needs and environmental responsibility. The webinar also offered valuable insights for the building professionals, architects, engineers, developers, and builders in attendance. Participants gained insights into how modular timber construction can accelerate project timelines while also lowering car-bon footprints and minimising construction waste. Attendees were provided practical strategies for integrating prefabricated design to achieve impressive seven-star NatHERS energy ratings. A key focus of the discussion was the role of certified wood procurement in aligning with ESG principles. Matt de Jongh highlighted Responsible Wood’s commitment to ensuring that timber used in projects like the HHS development comes from sustainably managed forests. Matt emphasised the benefits of choosing certified timber, including its positive biodiversity impacts. In addition, Matt spoke to the advantages of supporting local communities and timber product manufacturing, emphasising the positive environmental and social impacts this has on communities. The Horsham project’s carbon emissions study, presented by Jack Haber from HHS, demonstrated the clear advantages of using timber framing for this project, over alternative materials like steel and concrete. This data underscores the potential of timber construction to contribute significantly to reducing the built environment’s carbon footprint. Craig Chatman from ARKit further explored the importance of offsite prefabrication in delivering high-quality housing solutions efficiently, particularly for organisations like HHS. The webinar topics broadly highlighted the interconnectedness of ESG issues. Social responsibility is addressed through the provision of much-needed affordable housing. Environmental sustainability is achieved through the use of renewable, carbon-storing timber and energy-efficient designs. Good governance is ensured by adhering to re-sponsible sourcing practices and transparent reporting. The use of certified timber, as championed by Responsible Wood, is essential for realising the full potential of sustainable construction. It provides assurance that the wood used in these projects is sourced from forests managed according to strict environmental, social, and economic criteria. This commitment to responsible forestry practices is a key component of a truly sustainable built environment. For more information about Responsible Wood certification and its role in sustainable construction, please contact Responsible Wood. You can also access resources from the WoodSolutions webinar, including technical guides, webinars, and the Timber Talks podcast, by visiting their website. View modular timber construction solutions for affordable housing in Australia at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0dxA7Oj5wg&t=2s

The State Government in Victoria has been criticised in State Parliament over what is being seen as frustrating delays to new CFA volunteer recruitment training. Source: Timberbiz The Nationals’ Melina Bath told parliament the Government needed to expedite the ‘General Firefighter’ training course which was being delayed by many months in some areas. “New CFA recruits build capacity in Victoria’s emergency services system and our regional communities desperately need them,” Ms Bath said. “Delaying training by up to five months is unacceptable – it is hard enough to attract new members, clearing volunteers for operational roles must be faster than half a year. “In eastern Victoria the landscape is incredibly dry and the bushfire risk leading into easter remains high. “The Allan Government should not be delaying this critical training – it is essential new volunteers are upskilled to be on the fireground not cooling their heels on the sidelines.” Ms Bath said the survival of regional Victorian communities was intrinsically linked to CFA volunteers who provided a surge capacity workforce. She said that for over a decade Labor had disrespected CFA volunteers. “Many local brigades are struggling with not fit for purpose, substandard facilities and outdated equipment including firefighting trucks that are well past their used by date,” she said. “Labor must engage new trainers and offer more courses to ensure our new recruits are active in their local brigade ready to serve their community.”

The Birpai and Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land councils are working with Forestry Corporation to bring together knowledge of cultural burning with government bushfire management. Source: Timberbiz A fire training camp will be held at Guulabaa – Place of Koala in Cowarra State Forest near Wauchope made possible through Fire, Country and People, a three-year Australian Government-funded project. Fire and incident management specialists Fireground will provide the accredited fire-fighting training to members of the Wauchope and Port Macquarie Aboriginal communities from Monday, 17 March 17 to Thursday, 20 March. Forestry Corporation’s Aboriginal Heritage and Partnerships Manager John Shipp said the fire training will provide participants skills and qualifications in firefighting. “This program creates an opportunity for the Birpai and Bunyah communities to work with government agencies to develop a path forward for effective and sustainable bushfire management combining traditional cultural burning and modern firefighting techniques,” Mr Shipp said. “This will improve the resilience of the community to major bushfires. “The use of fire in the environment is only one aspect of the community’s land management experience which has existed for sixty-odd thousand years,” he said. Fire, Country and People will also help to build the scientific evidence base behind cultural burning. A research program will look to understand the effect that traditional Aboriginal fire practices have on the intensity and extent of bushfires. The $3-million Fire, Country and People: Aboriginal Community Disaster Ready Project has received funding from the Australian Government and is jointly funded by Forestry Corporation.  

Signing of a new Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) for forestry between New Zealand and India as part of the Prime Minister’s delegation visit to India this week has been welcomed by the Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association of NZ. Source: Timberbiz “As we look at rebuilding our forestry exports to India, it is important that we develop strong relationships with key Indian agencies,” Mark Ross, Chief Executive of the WPMA said. “Connecting on values and demonstrating a clear focus on mutually beneficial areas of interest will be critical to the Indian Government opening the door to a longer-term trading relationship in forestry products, such as timber and lumber, with New Zealand.” In contrast to what should be happening, New Zealand wood and forest product exports to India have decreased from a high of NZ$326 million in 2019 to an estimated NZ$76.5 million in 2024. Although export opportunities remain for a range of timber and lumber products, the bulk of the export volume and receipts have previously been driven by India’s demand for New Zealand logs. “With a recent ruling from the Indian government stipulating that federal housing schemes include ‘a greater mix’ of wood, there are new opportunities opening, for example, in the Indian residential market for our sustainable wood products,” Mr Ross said. “Under brand New Zealand we have a leading story to tell as to the value our timber and lumber products have in addressing climate change and sustainability challenges, which reflects the direction of the Indian government”. The MOC lays the groundwork for co-operation on areas such as sustainable forest management, research and innovation, capacity building, and certification.  

Victoria’s State Government has been asked what it has done to address the pending firewood supply shortage this winter. Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull, has accused Environment Minister, Steve Dimopoulos of doing nothing, despite being warned 12 months ago of the predicament. Source: Timberbiz “There are a range of issues that need to be addressed as a result of the cessation of the timber industry, which was the major supplier of domestic firewood. “We barely had enough to get through last winter and commercial suppliers are now importing it from interstate, if they can get it, and the price has sky-rocketed to be unaffordable to low-income households. “The recently opened public collection areas contain nowhere near enough wood to meet demand, but even so, there are many who cannot collect their own including the disabled, frail and elderly. “They have relied on commercial suppliers who now can no longer get it off the timber industry. When they can access it interstate, the increased haulage costs have seen prices skyrocket to unaffordable levels,” he said. “When I raised this over 12 months ago, the Minister’s office simply said collection seasons will continue for the public. It is a Minister and a Government that has no idea about this issue and does not seek to understand. “Sadly, it will likely result in high numbers of illegal collecting as families strive to keep warm. “The one thing we should never be short of in Victoria is firewood, especially in East Gippsland, but this Government has managed to achieve it. “With winter only months away, I have asked the Minister to open up more public collection areas and make resource available to commercial operators in this state. “Because they have done nothing, even timber cut now will be too green for this winter, but they can put some plans in place for next year. “I encourage locals to think ahead and stockpile as much as they can,” he said.

The Australian Forest Products Association has launched the next stages of its 2025 Federal Election Campaign following the release of its comprehensive Australian Timber – Australia’s Future Election Policy Platform in February. Source: Timberbiz “The AFPA team has been busy promoting our Platform, which includes key policy and funding requests, to policy and decision makers across all sides of federal politics over the past few weeks,’’ AFPA Chief Executive Officer, Diana Hallam said. ‘’It’s now time to launch the next stages of our campaign to support our Platform,” Ms Hallam said. February’s launch was aimed at illustrating the role Australian timber can play addressing the current housing crisis and supplying our nation’s future housing needs, the importance of securing the future of Australian grown and recycled timber and woodfibre to enhance our sovereign capability and promoting healthy and sustainable native and plantation forestry to provide Australians with the timber they need and fight climate change. This week’s launch included: forestfacts.com.au – a new website dedicated to countering the disinformation being irresponsibly spread about the forestry sector. New Billboards to support the campaign in key forestry battleground electorates, including in Tasmania. “There is a huge amount of disinformation being spread by activists about Australia’s sustainable and world leading forestry sector,’’ Ms Hallam said. “The idea behind forestfacts.com.au is that people interested in the truth about how Australian forestry operates can have somewhere to go to have myths dispelled and find further scientific information, as well as a basic overview of industry. “The Billboards running ahead of the Federal Election show the importance of the timber and forestry industry for homes. They have been placed in strategic locations to maximise public and political awareness of the importance of the full supply chain of Australia’s forestry sector. “AFPA will continue to execute our Federal Election campaign ahead of polling day and work to get all sides of federal politics committed to our Platform.”