Australian timber industry news

Swegon is a global company that offers solutions for ventilation, heating, cooling and climate optimisation has developed its first wooden air handling unit that could redefine the industry’s approach to reducing carbon emissions. Source: Timberbiz When the GOLD air handling unit was launched in 1994, it was an all-new concept with its pioneering design and innovative features. Now, three decades later, embodied carbon is increasingly in focus, and the first wooden concept air handling unit was designed. So far, two functioning prototypes of wooden GOLD air handling unit, size 005 have been built, where the traditional casing of conventional steel has been replaced by cross-laminated timber (CLT). By replacing the steel, Swegon managed to reduce the CO2 footprint by 40%. For a larger air handling unit, the saving would be even greater. “We have already introduced recycled steel inside our GOLD units to minimise environmental impact. With this concept wooden air handling unit, we take a significant step further, in line with our ambitions within the RE:3 concept to be in the forefront of reducing embodied carbon of products,” said Annika Sedwall, Head of Product Management, Kvänum. The unit is a concept product that is not on the market for sale, but will be evaluated and used in discussions around future alternative materials. “By rethinking material choices and challenging industry norms, we are driving the future of sustainable building solutions, and this concept is an important step in testing the limits for the industry,” said Martin Ottersten, PhD, Innovation and Knowledge Centre at Swegon.

Metsä Board, a producer of premium fresh fibre paperboards, has launched a new solution to enhance and simplify the recycling process for packaging materials customers receive as part of Metsä Board product deliveries. Source: Timberbiz Metsä Board has introduced QR codes on the pallet and reel labels of its products for all volumes delivered to its customers. The QR code directs customers to an intuitive app that provides detailed information on the various packaging materials used to protect the paperboard during the logistics chain. This information will assist customers in determining how each component of the delivery’s packaging should be recycled. By providing accessible and clear recycling information, the company aims to make it as easy as possible for customers to sort and recycle all the materials they receive with the product deliveries. In addition, customers will be able to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and ensure the materials are recycled as part of the local circular economy loop. “The implementation of the new recycling QR codes on our paperboard deliveries stems from a strong commitment to sustainability and customer convenience,” said Isto Hongisto, Product Safety Specialist at Metsä Board. “Recycling can sometimes be complex, and our goal is to make it as seamless and straightforward as possible for our customers. This initiative will not only save them time, but it will also ensure that the materials used in our deliveries are recycled in an optimal way.” The QR codes have been visible on all paperboard deliveries as of November 2024.

Canada Wood has taken a decisive step toward promoting mass timber and hybrid construction in China with the signing of three pivotal memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with key stakeholders. Source: Timberbiz These agreements with Treezo Group, East China Architectural Design & Research Institute (ECADI), and the National Center for Technology Innovation – Green Building (NCTI-GB) underline its strategic pivot to advancing mass timber and hybrid construction in China. They also highlight the growing potential for Canadian wood products to play a significant role in China’s evolving construction market. Treezo Group, one of China’s leading manufacturers of OSB, plywood, cabinetry, flooring, and prefab buildings, is at the forefront of integrating mass timber into its operations. With the completion of the design for a 7-storey mass timber office building at its headquarters in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, Treezo is actively exploring the establishment of its own mass timber manufacturing facility to support this project and expand its prefab business. The MOU with Treezo solidifies a partnership focused on advancing research and development, facilitating connections with Canadian academic institutions, and providing technical expertise. This collaboration aims to strengthen Treezo’s capabilities in mass timber production and its application in China’s growing prefab and mass timber markets. East China Architectural Design & Research Institute (ECADI), part of Arcplus Group PLC., is one of China’s most respected architectural firms, known for iconic projects such as the CCTV Headquarters and Shanghai Pudong Airport Terminal 3. ECADI is now channelling its expertise into the development of tall wood mass timber construction. The renewed MOU with ECADI focuses on establishing a wood construction innovation centre dedicated to advancing mass timber research and development. Canada Wood is supporting ECADI’s proposal for a 10-story mass timber office building in Shanghai, providing technical guidance to facilitate the adoption of mass timber construction. The National Centre for Technology Innovation – Green Building (NCTI-GB), endorsed by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development (MOHURD) and the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), is a national platform focused on decarbonizing construction and promoting green building technologies. As a central force in driving low-carbon construction, NCTI-GB’s mandate aligns closely with Canada Wood’s objectives to promote mass timber as a sustainable alternative. Facilitated by BCFII China office, the MOU with NCTI-GB underscores a commitment to joint efforts in resource sharing, technical exchange, and the development of standards and demonstration projects. This collaboration is poised to drive advancements in mass timber construction, with a shared goal of establishing wood as a key component in China’s green building agenda.  

Irish materials handling innovator Combilift has celebrated 21 years of operation in Australia, shortly after marking the 25th anniversary of its establishment in County Monaghan. Source: Timberbiz Co-founder and managing director Martin McVicar last week joined customers, dealer partners and local staff to mark the milestone in Melbourne. Mr McVicar recalled how he was initially approached about entering the Australian market by family-owned dealer group Adaptalift. Founder Peter Whiffen discovered Combilift while searching for a solution for a client’s unique handling needs. As an engineer, he was so impressed with the innovation of the Combilift range that he flew to the company’s factory in Ireland. The visit resulted in the establishment in 2003 of Adapt-A-Lift Imports, trading as Combilift Australia, to import and distribute niche market materials handling products. Mr McVicar still vividly remembers his first business trip to Australia from Cincinnati in the United States to Brisbane via Chicago, Los Angeles and Auckland. The ravages of the trip didn’t affect the presentation and Mr McVicar left with an order of a C4000 truck, the world’s first engine-powered multidirectional forklift, from a steel tubing and pipe specialist which continues to grow its Combilift fleet today. “For us, every customer is valuable, even if they’ve only purchased one machine,” he said. Mr McVicar paid tribute to his local partners. “The team from Adaptalift have been instrumental to our growth in the area, with ongoing investment in inventory, parts and training.” For his part, Mr Whiffen values the relationship with Combilift which, he says, “has never lost its focus on the customer, even though it is now a big company”. Adaptalift has also benefited from Combilift’s unique range. “That has opened doors for us and allowed us to sell other products to the same customers,” Mr Whiffen said. “It extends our range and beautifully complements our other offerings.” According to Combilift Australia managing director Chris Littlewood, whose 10th year with the company is fast approaching, Combilift continues to grow its market share in Australia. This growth has made Australia Combilift’s fifth-largest market, with a fleet in the country exceeding 4,500 units.

The New Zealand Government says that it is delivering on its commitment to combat trade in illegally harvested timber, with consultation starting on operational details to implement New Zealand’s legal harvest assurance system, Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced. Source: Timberbiz “The system will limit the risk of importing illegally harvested timber and provide the international market with confidence in New Zealand’s timber and timber products,” Mr McClay said. “As markets increasingly demand verifiable assurances, this system will help us maintain and expand access to higher-value opportunities worldwide.” The legal harvest assurance system is designed to: Reduce the risk of trading in timber sourced from illegal harvesting. Provide exporters with a streamlined pathway to meet global market requirements. Ensure timber imported into New Zealand meets legal harvest standards. Support international efforts to combat illegal logging and strengthen global supply chains. The Government is inviting input on the operational details of the system, which is set to be fully implemented by August 2027. Feedback gathered during the consultation will shape the final recommendations and ensure the system is practical and effective for all stakeholders. Consultation is open until 26 February 2025.

A recent Federal Government investigation into timber imports underlines the reality that if consumers want to be certain in buying sustainably produced wood, they should buy Australian. Source: Timberbiz Tasmania’s Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, said the investigation found that one quarter of timber products imported into Australia have inaccurate species and origin claims, including multiple instances of undeclared veneers and solid timber products with potential Russian origins. “It is ironic that groups like the Bob Brown Foundation and the Wilderness Society, in their rush to promote the banning of sustainably harvested native Tasmanian timber, are effectively promoting the use of imported timber of potentially dubious origin,” said Minister Abetz. “The mind boggles that in the choice between sustainable Tasmanian timber and imported timber from who-knows-where, including unlabelled Russian timber, extremists would prefer the latter. “Tasmanians can be well pleased with our forestry industry, with both native and plantation timber harvested under our world-class forest practices system, ensuring the ongoing sustainability of our public forest estate. “In contrast to Labor Governments around the country which have betrayed timber communities, our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future supports forestry and its 5700 direct and indirect jobs, and we urge Australians to buy local. “We are opening up the Future Potential Production Forest “wood bank”, increasing high-quality sawlog supply to Tasmanian industry, supporting our iconic special species timber sector and supercharging on-island processing with an additional $5 million. “We make no apologies for backing the State’s sustainable and job-rich timber industry.”

  The City of Coffs Harbour will be represented as the NSW Government moves toward the creation of a Great Koala National Park on the Mid North Coast. Source: Timberbiz The NSW Government committed $80 million in funding over four years to support the development of the park as part of the 2023/24 State Budget. The consultation process – as it works toward the park’s formation – includes establishment of three advisory panels (Aboriginal groups, community and industry). City of Coffs Harbour along with other regional councils (Kempsey, Nambucca Valley, Bellingen and Clarence) has been invited to be represented on the community panel. At its meeting on 14 November, Coffs Harbour Council resolved to nominate Cr Jonathan Cassell to the Great Koala National Park Community Advisory Panel, with Cr Tony Judge as the alternate. The NSW Government notes some 176,000 hectares of State Forest will be assessed for inclusion in the Great Koala National Park, along with areas of the existing National Park estate.

Victoria’s state government has already laid the groundwork to create the Great Forest National Park, lodging a plan with the federal government in May that requires it to lock up 300,000ha of Victoria’s Central Highlands to protect Leadbeater’s possums. Source: The Weekly Times Action 2.5 of the plan, which was marked “urgent”, required the Allan government to implement “a substantial expansion of the current reserve system to encompass all areas of high likelihood of occurrence of the species (currently and in the future)”, estimated at 300,000ha. The plan’s adoption, under the federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act, means failing to expand the reserves within a new Great Forest National Park risks the Victorian government facing legal action from environmental groups. “Given the current state and prognosis of Leadbeater’s possum, all sites at which the species has recently been recorded are important and merit protection; as do all areas at which there is a reasonable likelihood of its occurrence as indicated by occupancy and population viability analysis (PVA) modelling,” the plan states. Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said locking in the plan “makes a mockery” of the Victorian government’s public consultation on whether to lock up the Central Highlands in a new national park. “Locking up more land in national parks will guarantee more serious bushfires and less opportunity for people to enjoy our natural environment,” Mr Chester said. Victorian Opposition Environment spokesman James Newbury said the plan “added a big legal padlock to more of our public land”. “It’s further proof of a con – that the government has a secret plan to lock Victoria away,” Mr Newbury said. But Victorian Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos’ office said “the Leadbeater’s Possum Recovery Plan is a commonwealth initiative that sets a national framework to co-ordinate recovery efforts across states, it does not require Victoria to create national parks”. The federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water’s website states “the recovery plan for Leadbeater’s possum has been made jointly with the Victorian government under the EPBC Act”. One Labor Party source said it was clear the Victorian government had led the charge on adoption of the latest plan, despite ending native timber harvesting on January 1 this year, which environmentalists had long argued was a threat to the possum.

Parks Victoria manages more than four million hectares of parks and reserves which attract more than 100 million visits every year. These assets must meet the needs of Victorians for generations to come. It’s clear that Parks Victoria’s current operations need to be improved to meet community expectations according to Steve Dimopoulos Victorian Minister for Environment. Source: Timberbiz “I have therefore ordered a comprehensive review of Parks Victoria, to advise how the organisation can better serve the needs of Victorians and help them enjoy the great outdoors,” he said in a statement. The review will focus on Parks Victoria’s priorities, the delivery of its objectives under the Parks Victoria Act 2018, the organisation’s administration, finances, functions and delivery model – to identify ways the organisation can reduce red-tape, improve customer service, and deliver better outcomes for Victorians. The review will be completed by March 2025, and will be overseen by the Victorian Government with the support of Korda Mentha. As part of this process, Matthew Jackson, the CEO of Parks Victoria, has departed his position by mutual agreement. Graeme “Gus” Dear has been appointed as Interim CEO of Parks Victoria. Mr Dear brings 30 years of experience in public and private sector administration and has served on the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) Board since its inception, most recently as Chair. “Gus loves the bush. Ever since he caught his first redfin at Ringwood Lake as a young boy, he’s been hooked on fishing,” Mr Dimopoulos said. “His passion for the great outdoors and experience in administration means he is the right person to help Parks Victoria change. “His leadership will ensure Parks Victoria continues to provide accessible, enjoyable outdoor experiences while protecting and enhancing the state’s natural environment.”  

I am at risk of sounding like a cracked record. I have 59 years’ experience of managing productive native forests. The Department promoting the Improved Native Forest Management Plan (INFM) proposes an end to sustainable management. I Googled INFM and found references to just about anything but the proposed INFM Plan. I suspect the Department’s proposed “management” really proposes the traditional conservation reserve management which effectively excludes any commercial production from a native forest. Let nature take its course. Then when the forest does not conserve all the species that were present on day one, having let nature take its course it won’t be the Department’s fault if an extinction occurs. In my research I did find reference to the National Parks Association’s condemnation of the Regional Forest Agreements as being a total failure. As I see it, they are right, but not in the way they want it seen. The Regional Forest Agreements saw extensive tracts of productive forests locked away in conservation reserves such as National Parks. They were the best forest habitats for the most threatened species. What has happened to the threatened species in all those protected habitats? I am just one of the foresters that have been managing our productive native forests for over 100 years. Why is it that the next area to be harvested places a threatened species at risk of extinction? This claimed threat of extinctions tells me that in only 25 years the National Parks Association and their cronies have totally failed to protect the threatened species in the native forests they were entrusted to protect. The harvesting of managed productive native forests may threaten the survival of individuals, but it is obviously providing the preferred habitat for those threatened species in the long term. Our productive native forests had their share of severe wildfires. Often because neighbours thought their place and the forest “needed a bit of a burn”. We didn’t have a lot of people working in the forests, but they were all attuned to fire suppression so, damage was minimised. I grew up in Sydney and recreated in the surrounding native forests and woodland. Over the years I observed the increasing frequency and severity of bush fires. We encourage our population to recreate in the bush and most are careful but as the numbers increase so does the number of the less than careful. The Royal National Park and the Blue Mountains rarely have a fire free summer these days. It is very easy to blame lightning from the summer storms but there was an old forestry adage that many a lightning strike came out of match boxes. So, when all our native forests are protected from production, we won’t have the timber industry to blame for adverse outcomes. No doubt the conservation movement will find another fall guy to take the blame for their failures. In my early years as a graduate forester forest plantations were being condemned as biological deserts. That was till they were overnight proclaimed as the alternative to harvesting native forests. I have long believed that as soon as the last native forest is protected from harvesting the plantations will once again be condemned as a blight on our landscape. It intrigued me recently to learn that we are now importing our native hardwoods from plantations on the other side of the world. Paul Keating once said Australia had to become “the smart country”. We still have a long way to go.   Vic Eddy joined the Forestry Commission of New South Wales as a forester in 1966 and worked across the state until 1984.He holds a Bachelor of Science (Forestry).

Inter IKEA Group has signed an agreement to acquire its first set of forestlands in Latvia. This acquisition will allow IKEA to govern a part of its wood supply in the Baltics and contribute to the development of new methods for responsible forest management within the IKEA value chain. Source: Timberbiz The seller is Skogsfond Baltikum AB (publ). The acquisition is expected to be closed in December 2024. “With this investment, we further strengthen our commitment to responsible forest management and securing responsibly managed raw material sources for our supply chain. By managing our forestland, we are committed to ensuring that our operations foster a positive contribution to the environment and local economies, in close collaboration with local businesses and communities,” says Bruno Mariani Piana, Global Forest Investments Manager at Inter IKEA Group. The land, approximately 8,080 hectares in size, is situated in various parts of Latvia. The acquisition will enable regional suppliers and sub-suppliers to have long-term access to responsibly sourced wood materials, which will provide better opportunities for future growth. Additionally, the acquisition provides an opportunity to explore how innovative forest management practices can enhance climate resilience and biodiversity. Partnering with local communities, businesses, academia, authorities, and NGOs to make responsible forest management the global norm is a crucial part of the IKEA Forest Agenda. IKEA is collaborating with researchers and NGOs to establish a pilot project involving our own forestland. “Owning forestland gives us great opportunities to drive projects promoting responsible forest management such as climate- and biodiversity-smart forestry. This is a part of our commitment to invest in further development of responsible forest management. It will enable us to explore and demonstrate innovative forest management practices in the coming years,” says Mikhail Tarasov, Global Head of Forestry at Inter IKEA Group. For all wood used in the IKEA supply chain, Inter IKEA Group will apply strict requirements to secure responsible forest management practices on the acquired land, ensuring that the forest management is FSC-certified and complies with IWAY standards, the IKEA supplier code of conduct. FSC certification ensures that forest management practises will not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation and will be based on a balance of economic, social, and environmental interests, including the identification of areas of high conservation value where forest management should be limited or restricted.

It has been reported that Ziegler sawmilling group, a part of one of Europe’s largest wood companies has filed for insolvency, it is ranked at the 10th largest sawmill group in Europe with the largest sawmill in Germany. However, none of Ziegler’s subsidiaries have filed for bankruptcy. Source: Timberbiz German media OberpflazECHO reported the insolvency. The company’s annual report in 2022 showed that it had debts of Euro 326 million. Over the past few years, it has led a push into production expansion. But due to a drop in demand from the construction sector and problems with supply chains it has struggled to meet its debts. The Zeighler Group has more than 3000 employees in Germany, Sweden and Romania.

In a world increasingly defined by its environmental challenges, a gathering of experts at the Climate Conference in Baku (COP 29) shed light on the intricate dance between regulation and sustainability. Source: Timberbiz The side event, titled “Regulation and Beyond Opportunities & Challenges,” brought together leading voices in forestry and environmental policy to explore how regulations like the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) are shaping the future of our planet. Moderated by Sara Bray, Senior Policy Manager at the Australian Forest Products Association, the event featured insightful contributions from Françoise Van de Ven, President of ATIBT; Jennifer Conje, Director of the Division of Forest Management at ITTO; and Thorsten Arndt, Head of Advocacy at PEFC International. Françoise Van de Ven opened the discussion by addressing the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), highlighting its recent postponement and the ambiguities surrounding its amendments. She emphasized that while certified companies were prepared for the EUDR, the lack of readiness among customs and information systems posed significant challenges. Françoise also pointed out the potential adverse effects of additional EU-imposed criteria on imports, which could undermine local economies and sustainable practices. Jennifer Conje highlighted that regulations drive change within business supply chains, citing the impacts of the EU Timber Regulation and the Lacey Act. However, she stressed the importance of creating regulations that are sustainable and balanced across environmental, economic, and social goals. Ms Conje emphasized the critical role of sustainable forestry and certification in maintaining economic value and supporting local livelihoods, especially in regions where forests are integral to the community’s survival. Thorsten Arndt highlighted that PEFC simplifies complex EUDR requirements by translating them into clear, understandable steps, using the familiar language of the PEFC Chain of Custody standard. He emphasized that PEFC certification is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it is about fostering a culture of sustainability that benefits both the environment and local communities. By setting high standards and ensuring rigorous compliance through independent audits, PEFC helps forest owners and managers implement best practices that go beyond mere legal compliance. This approach ensures that forests are managed responsibly, preserving biodiversity, and supporting the livelihoods of those who depend on them. Mr Thorsten highlighted that PEFC’s comprehensive certification system addresses not only deforestation but also the broader social and economic impacts of forestry. This holistic approach makes PEFC a vital partner in achieving sustainable development goals and combating climate change. Moderator Ms Bray set the stage by acknowledging the complexity of achieving biodiversity, carbon, and equity outcomes through regulation. She noted, “Governments are grappling with how to achieve these goals, often looking to regulation at various levels – international, federal, state, and local. Unfortunately, these regulations don’t always knit together seamlessly.” This sentiment was echoed throughout the discussion, emphasizing the need for cohesive and well-coordinated policies. The panelists collectively emphasized the need for nuanced and well-implemented policies that involve local stakeholders. They argued that regulations should not only aim to prevent negative outcomes but also promote positive environmental and social impacts. The discussion highlighted the importance of international cooperation and the role of certification in bridging the gap between regulatory frameworks and practical implementation. The event concluded with a call for ongoing dialogue and collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and certification systems. The panelists expressed hope that the insights shared would inform future regulatory developments, ensuring that environmental regulations achieve their intended goals without unintended negative consequences. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and deforestation, events like “Regulation and Beyond” play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future. The insights and recommendations from this discussion underscore the importance of thoughtful, inclusive, and effective environmental governance.  

New research measuring access to nature for eight major global cities, including central Melbourne and Sydney, found most have inadequate canopy cover despite access to an abundance of trees. Source: Timberbiz Just 3% of buildings in Melbourne’s innermost suburbs had adequate neighbourhood canopy cover, despite 44% of them having views of at least three trees. Central Sydney fared better, although only 17% of city buildings were shaded enough despite 84% having views of at least three trees. Lead researcher Dr Thami Croeser said better canopy cover was urgently needed to cool down our cities. “We know depression, anxiety, obesity and heatstroke are more prevalent in urban areas lacking access to shady tree canopy and green open spaces,” said Dr Croeser, from the Centre for Urban Research. The study, published in Nature Communications, looked at over 2.5 million buildings across eight cities using an emerging sustainable cities measure, known as the ‘3-30-300′ rule. The rule states every house, school and workplace should have a view of at least three trees, be in a neighbourhood with at least 30% canopy cover, and be within 300 metres of a park. While most buildings across the eight cities had views of at least three trees, the study found almost all cities fell short on the 30% canopy cover test. Only Seattle and Singapore passed the 30% canopy benchmark, with 45% and 75% of buildings in these cities enjoying adequate shade, respectively. Dr Croeser said trees can give poor canopy cover if they are planted in conditions that stunt their growth, such as asphalt covering roots and reducing access to rainwater. “Too often, we put trees last in our streetscapes. We plant them in very tough conditions, and then the moment there’s a conflict, they’re out. Whether it’s for construction access, a resident complaining or an underground cable, we’re very quick to remove street trees and replace them with saplings. “Trees in urban environments are also pruned very heavily, so not many trees get the opportunity to grow into big old canopy trees except in a few lucky areas.” Dr Croeser said canopy cover doesn’t just increase cooling; it can also reduce flood risk as well as benefit mental and physical health and support urban biodiversity. “Studies say we actually need at least 40% canopy cover to substantially lower daytime air temperatures, so the ‘30’ metric is the bare minimum; most buildings we studied don’t even reach that goal,” he said. Dr Croeser said he would like to see state and federal government take charge of a canopy taskforce to retrofit streets to prioritise canopy cover. “Councils are already strapped for funding and resources, so we need government to step in to fund and fast track the process to make an impact on canopy goals,” he said. While the ‘3-30-300′ rule, devised by Dutch urban forestry expert Professor Cecil Konijnendijk, is still relatively new in Australia, it is gaining momentum internationally, with at least six cities in Europe, the US and Canada implementing the measure in their urban forestry strategies. Mr Konijnendijk said he devised the benchmark to help set a ‘bare minimum’ for nature in cities. “Getting more parks and trees into cities is complicated work, and I realised that a simple metric could take the mystery out of it and set a proper benchmark based on evidence,” he said. “I reviewed decades of science linking nature to human health – and found that views to nature, canopy cover and parks are all really essential if we want to be mentally healthy, physically active and safe from heatwave impacts.” Technical University of Munich Professor Wolfgang Weisser said metrics benchmarking neighbourhoods’ green infrastructure against human wellbeing were rare. “Some of the metrics we use now are not really sufficient whereas the ‘3-30-300′ metric really demands that nature is brought to the areas that people actually live and work in,” Mr Weisser said. “A municipality with almost treeless streets and a few large, well-forested parks may score well on aggregated metrics of canopy and per-capita greenery but will be exposed as inadequate by the highly local ‘3’ and ‘30’ requirements.” The researchers collaborated with Dutch firm Cobra Groeninzicht (Green Insights) to visualise the results. “With the techniques our team has developed, we can calculate the ‘3-30-300’ benchmark for any city in the world,” said Dirk Voets, Senior Advisor Geospatial at Cobra Groeninzicht.  

Situated on the outskirts of New Plymouth in New Zealand on 60ha of farmland, there is a school that serves as an inspiration, challenging not only the country’s educational norms but showcasing the possibilities of design and construction using wood. This was recognised when the school’s newest structure, the Kina, received the top accolade at the Timber Design Awards. Source: Timberbiz What was merely a paddock in 2018 has been transformed into a place of deep learning. Three Waka, or pod-like classrooms, were the first structures to be built, designed to be sustainable and blend harmoniously with the natural environment. One Waka is New Zealand’s largest and tallest zero-concrete building constructed using wood and minimal steel. Yet, it’s the school’s latest addition, the Kina, that has proven to be the groundbreaking benchmark for learning facilities of the future. Honoured with the Supreme Award at Timber Unlimited’s Timber Design Awards in November last year, the Kina represents a biophilic-inspired building comprising classrooms and communal spaces crafted to enhance cognitive function and emotional wellbeing. Founded by long-time entrepreneurs Michael and Rachel Perrett, Green School New Zealand is part of a global education movement beginning in Bali in 2008. Schools have since opened in South Africa and soon, Tulum, Mexico. By blending traditional principles with a holistic, child-led approach, the schools foster green leaders equipped for real-life challenges through community-integrated learning and sustainability practices. Describing Green School as their passion project, the Perretts aim to revolutionise education by providing an alternative that speaks to the hearts and minds of tomorrow’s leaders. “Education often feels outdated, industrialised, or simply ineffective,” Michael Perrett said. “We believe there is a better way, one that places children at the centre and breaks free from outdated norms. With the rapidly changing demands of the world, we’re left in a new era with an old playbook.” New Plymouth architects, BOON, were enlisted for their expertise after successfully collaborating on the original Waka classrooms. Glenn Brebner, BOON’s managing director, emphasises their mission to invoke curiosity and infuse beauty into the campus, showcasing a commitment to children’s learning environments. “This deliberate aesthetic consideration contrasts sharply with traditional classroom designs,” he says. Judges of the Supreme Award were quick to remark on the school’s allure. “This project quickly bubbled to the top as an exemplary project that set an example of the beauty, efficiency and sustainability that can be achieved using timber,” one judge noted. “The full life cycle of the building was considered during the design process with the result being a series of stunning organic forms that sit lightly upon the landscape and wrap around the young minds who are occupying the learning spaces.” Laminated timber curves and perforated interiors create a stunning focal point. Green School dismantles the confines of conventional education, replacing concrete walls and boxed windows with sprawling acres of land and structures that surrender to the environment. Its design not only connects visually and sensually with the natural surroundings, aligning with the school’s curriculum, but also cultivates a deep physical and emotional connection between he tangata and whenua. The Kina’s main feature is its 24 eyebrow-shaped structures arranged in a circular form looking out towards views of the maunga, awa, and the school’s existing buildings. Built mainly using timber, an absolute minimum of concrete has been used – reserved only for the four atrium foundations, all others are timber driven piles. The floor structure is parallel laminated timber (PLT) panel, joinery is Accoya timber, decking is New Zealand beech and macrocarpa weatherboards are used on the external walls. From conceptualisation of the waka classrooms, it was clear to us that timber would serve as our primary building material,” “Its distinguished profile, renewable nature, capacity to sequester carbon, and local availability were all key factors in our decision-making process,” said Michael Perrett. “Wood also provided BOON the opportunity to embrace the form and patterns associated with kina. By wrapping laminated timber along the curves, they created a perforated interior lining, resulting in a captivating kina spot design. “This feature is not only widely complimented but also serves as an acoustic blanket, welcoming our school’s new entrants.” Rachel Perrett says timber has biophilic advantages – resulting in a connection with nature – and an ability to promote wellbeing while enhancing the natural warmth and beauty of spaces. “Incorporating biophilic principles into the design is more than just mimicking nature; it’s about integrating biology into architecture intentionally. Rather than merely emulating natural systems, there’s a deliberate effort to reference and incorporate biological elements. While this presented its own challenges, it’s crucial for creating environments that prioritise beauty, nature, and innovation,” she said. The project used Building Information Modelling to communicate complex 3D form to engineers and structural timber fabricators, reducing the amount of waste from materials being cut and measured onsite; a significant portion was pre-fabricated off site and assembled in situ. Mr Brebner says engineered timber offers previously unattainable levels of accuracy. “It allows for the creation of shapes that were once out of reach. “Much of the timber industry has historically relied on covering up the approximations inherent in traditional wood products. However, engineered timber is consistently precise, resulting in a final product that seamlessly combines technical accuracy with aesthetic beauty,” he said. Technology contributed to the school diverting 70% of all construction waste from the landfill. In doing so, they influenced many of their suppliers to prioritise sustainability, including a century-old construction company. A second judge commended the project’s use of innovation and technology: “The combination of timber and engineered wood products makes the most of locally available resources and cutting-edge manufacturing methods which also allow for meaningful textures to be included with the complex curves and structural rhythms. “This project sets a high standard for what can be achieved using timber sourced and fabricated within Aotearoa New Zealand and is something we can all look to for inspiration for a sustainable future.” Robert Finch, whose visionary leadership at Timber Unlimited has spearheaded transformative changes over […]

Since its establishment in 1994, Mechanised Logging Pty Ltd (MechLog), has grown to become one of Australia’s most forward-thinking and sustainable timber harvesting service providers. Source: Timberbiz With an enduring commitment to environmental stewardship and operational efficiency, MechLog has continually set benchmarks in adopting new technology, transforming the timber industry into a more modern and sustainable enterprise. This philosophy, cantered on ‘Forestry with Care,’ serves as a guiding principle for harvesting operations as well as influencing the company’s communication strategies and stakeholder engagement. MechLog CEO, Jillian Aylett Brown, is acutely aware of the importance of effective communication and the role it plays in strengthening trust with stakeholders. This includes how the company interacts with clients, suppliers, employees, the wider forestry community, and the general public. “We are living and working in an information age where information consumption increasingly occurs through digital means. As we have in all areas of our business from training through to actual on-the-ground operations, MechLog has adopted a proactive approach to information gathering and dissemination,” Ms Aylett Brown said. “We subscribe to industry platforms and digital newsletters, actively engage with social media networks like LinkedIn, Facebook, and make extensive use of the MechLog website. “We even leverage advanced tools such as ChatGPT for research purposes. MechLog’s commitment to staying informed, being innovative, and adopting positions that vary from other timber industry thought leaders, is one of the foundations of our success.” To remain agile and responsive in the ever-evolving forestry industry, MechLog relies on a strategic combination of traditional and digital information sources. “Employees are encouraged to access information from established forestry and environmental platforms, while the company itself subscribes to digital newsletters to keep abreast of the latest trends and challenges. Ms Aylett Brown, even commented that the company’s leadership team, highly values data-driven insights sourced from platforms such as LinkedIn, because they facilitate professional engagement and industry discourse. “Staying informed is more than convenience, for MechLog it is a strategic imperative. Our reliance on multiple information sources ensures that we remain leaders, not followers, in the forestry sector,” she said.  

Exports of Engineered Wood Products (EWPs) from major Asia surged 58% year-ended August 2024, totalling USDFob243 million, according to new analysis from IndustryEdge. Source: IndustryEdge The big lift in EWP exports was led by China, whose trade leaped 142% compared with the prior year. Indonesia exported the second highest value of EWPs for the year, shifted from first place by the stellar lift in Chinese exports. In this short analysis, we provide an overview of the exports from these leading Asian nations. The chart and table below provide headline export details. Much attention will be paid to China’s lift in exports – more on that later – while others will be surprised by the continued strength of Indonesian exports. Major Asia – Total EWP Exports by Country: Jan ’22[i] – Aug ’24 (USDM) Beyond the headline analysis, the detailed data, which covers exports and imports consistently for the major countries, has plenty more to offer. Some will be surprised, but it is GLT not LVL that rules Asia’s GLT exports. As the chart and table below demonstrate, of all the EWPs, the consistent powerhouse is GLT, which accounted for 53% of total regional exports year-ended August 2024. GLT exports were valued at around USD129 million for the year, on a free-on-board basis. Major Asia – Total EWP Exports by Type: Jan ’22 – Aug ’24 (USDM) Despite the dominance of GLT, the real story of this data lies in the explosive growth in LVL – Hardwood (at least one outer ply must be hardwood). Growth in exports over the last year was astounding, commencing July 2023, and subsequently maintaining strength. Asia’s Glue Laminated Timber (GLT) exports are dominated by shipments from Indonesia. Valued at USDFob86.5 million year-ended August 2024, Indonesia’s GLT shipments were to a range of countries, including Australia. To emphasise the power of the datasets available, in the table below, we specify the volume or quantity of exports, rather than the export values (measured in tonnes and no, before you ask, there is no density information available!). As the table demonstrates, other than Asia, Indonesia supplies go far and wide, dominated by shipments to the Netherlands. Indonesia – GLT Exports by Main Country: YE Aug ’23 v YE Aug ’24 (Tonnes & %) There is reasonable excitement about GLT in Australia right now, as an option for local manufacturing that offers some seriously high value. The chart and table below give some clues about that, with Indonesia’s weighted average export price in August 2024 near its peak at USDFob2,603/t. However, greatest interest will be in the price points for exports to Australia, which routinely hit USDFob4,000/t, or say AUD6,000/t landed. Industry intelligence tells us the higher-priced products are mainly posts. Indonesia – GLT Exports by Major Country: Jan ’22 – Aug ’24 (USDFob/t) These export prices alone have some excited about the prospects for consistent and reliable supplies of hardwood GLT in Australia. Just two countries export a significant supply of Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL): China and Indonesia. Year-ended August 2024, China exported LVL valued at USD63.4 million on a free-on-board basis, a 464% increase on the prior year, as the chart below demonstrates. LVL Exports by Major Country: Jan ’22 – Aug ’24 (USD Million) The curiosity with this data starts in July 2023, when China’s exports exploded and stayed high. China’s total EWP exports hit USD129 million – mainly hardwood LVL! Over the year-ended August 2024, Chinese exports of EWP’s lifted 142% to USDFob129 million. Exports were dominated by LVL – Hardwood (where at least one outer layer must be hardwood).China – EWP Exports by Type: Jan ’22 – Aug ’24 (USD Million) To understand the Chinese export situation better, we also analysed the volume of exports by type, which shows the dominance of LVL – Hardwood and GLT. China – EWP Exports by Type: Jan ’22 – Aug ’24 (USD Million) Drilling deeper, here we show China’s LVL – Hardwood exports by country, first by tonnes and second by price. The nearly 500% increase in shipments to Japan over the last year should be of interest from many perspectives and the weighted average price explains how that has been achieved! China – LVL – Hardwood Exports by Country: YE Aug ‘23 – YE Aug ’24 (Tonnes & %) Japan is the largest importer in Asia – main products? GLT and hardwood LVL Finally, we delved into the import data for major Asian countries and could not go past Japan. Though its imports have slowed over the last year or more, they routinely top USD40 million per month and are dominated by GLT and LVL – Hardwood, as the previous data implied would be the case. However, countries of supply are a different matter. China is obviously part of the mix and appears to be delivering the majority of the hardwood EWP supply to Japan, supported by Malaysia, Philippines and Vietnam. Interestingly, the regional GLT powerhouse, Indonesia, struggles in the Japanese market. On the (mainly) softwood side, Austria, Finland, Estonia, New Zealand, Poland, Romania, Russia and Sweden all have solid positions in Japan. Japan – EWP Imports by Type: YE Aug ’23 – Aug ’24 (USD Million) As demand for wood fibre tightens around the world, improved recovery to finished products is being pursued with increasing vigour throughout the supply chain. Coupling that pressure with the need to reduce the embodied energy and emissions from products like steel and concrete, IndustryEdge’s view is demand for wood-based building products will grow faster over the next decade than over the last decade. Understanding the major markets and trading locations provides growers, producers, importers, merchants and others with the opportunity to consider their next move in this fast-moving and critical sector. There are many insights to be gleaned from multi-country analysis. One that should be of interest to plantation owners in Australia is the apparent opportunity to manufacture and supply hardwood-based EWPs into some of the highest value markets in the world. In a fibre-scarce world, the most abundant […]

A symposium in Rotorua is bringing together recent research on tropical cyclone ecology, with a special focus on the ecological impacts of last year’s Cyclone Gabrielle. Source: Timberbiz The symposium is part of the 2024 New Zealand Ecological Society Conference, which is on from 25 to 29 November, where experts will speak on a wide variety of topics including Mātauranga Māori and ecology, how biological invasions misshape our world, Aotearoa’s own pekapeka/bats, and many more. The Science Media Centre asked symposium speakers to provide a preview of their talks. “Many impacts of tropical cyclones on ecosystems are immediately obvious, such as the windfall of trees, erosion of hillsides, and deposition of sediment and debris across the landscape. However, cyclones can also have indirect effects on species and ecosystems via their impacts on conservation projects, such as ecosanctuaries,” Warwick Allen, Community Ecologist, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research said. “Ecosanctuaries are conservation projects larger than 25 hectares, where multi-species, pest mammal control is implemented for ecosystem recovery objectives, with substantial community involvement. They are a vital part of the conservation infrastructure of New Zealand, providing a refuge for threatened native biodiversity, a place for the community to connect with nature, and represent a subset of conservation projects throughout the country. “We interviewed representatives from 65 North Island ecosanctuaries about the types of damage and range of impacts that Cyclone Gabrielle had on conservation infrastructure and activities. “Damage from wind (91% of affected ecosanctuaries) and erosion (85%) were widespread, with inundation (47%) and sediment deposition (32%) less prevalent. Impacts on infrastructure (pest-fences, buildings, roads, walking tracks) were most widely reported and often paired with disruption to conservation activities such as pest control, native species monitoring, and restoration plantings. Of particular concern, 40% of pest fences (often called ‘predator-proof fences’) were damaged during the cyclone, with rapid pest incursions detected in most cases. “The cyclone damage may also lead to longer term problems, including the ongoing management of pest incursions, loss of access to management areas, reduced capacity of the conservation workforce, and opportunity costs associated with recovery instead of progress.” Dr Peter Bellingham, Senior Researcher, Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research said that tropical cyclones shape the structure, composition, and function of ecosystems in the latitudes where they occur frequently. “At those latitudes, ecosystems from coral reefs to tropical rainforests have adapted to cyclone disturbance and are resilient to them. “New Zealand is outside the zone of frequent cyclone disturbance so that we, as people, are apt to treat the effects of any given cyclone as catastrophic. However, for many New Zealand ecosystems, such as its native forests, these infrequent disturbances are important agents in promoting their regeneration. “However, we can ill afford to be complacent about tropical cyclone effects on our native forests now and in future. Climate change and warmer oceans are taking cyclones of unprecedented intensity to higher latitudes, including New Zealand, where a new cyclone disturbance regime could transform our forests. “The viability of our highly fragmented forests to cyclone disturbance is unknown, especially because of interactions with surrounding land uses that often have poor cyclone resilience. After cyclones, the forests dominated by native trees could be undermined by interactions among nutrient-rich sediment deposits, weed invasions, effects of browsing mammals, and subsequent disturbances like fire and ongoing erosion. “The resilience of native forests to future cyclones could be similarly undermined by logging of snapped and uprooted trees. To predict the effects of a future cyclone disturbance regime on our ecosystems we need to learn from our own history of cyclones, to learn from cyclone studies internationally, and to expect interactive effects with biological invasions and other kinds of disturbance.”  

Dean Anderson has been appointed chairman of the Softwoods Working Group. SWG Executive Officer Carlie Porteous said that Mr Anderson brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the job and has dedicated more than 40 years to the forestry industry across Australia. Source: Timberbiz “Under his leadership, we are confident the SWG will continue to thrive and further its mission of fostering sustainable growth and resilience within the forestry sector. “Dean holds a Bachelor of Science (Forestry) from the Australian National University, is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and is a qualified Incident Controller,” Ms Porteous said. “Throughout his career, Mr Anderson has held senior roles in commercial operations, natural forest management, environmental assessment, and plantation management. His experience is predominantly in New South Wales but includes stints in South Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand and Scotland.” Ms Porteous said Mr Anderson has served as either an Incident Controller or Deputy Incident Controller for multiple state-significant bushfire emergencies. “Notably, he was part of Australia’s first deployment of forest firefighters to North America in 2000. Dean and others were awarded the National Emergency Medal for their contributions during the 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires,” she said. “Dean also has a strong background in governance, having served on the board of the Timber Development Association for 15 years, including five years as Chair, promoting timber use and addressing technical aspects of timber construction. “Dean steps into the role following the remarkable 37-year tenure of Peter Crowe OAM, who was recently celebrated for his outstanding contributions.” Ms Porteous said in recognition of his service, Mr Crowe has been honoured with the title of Chair Emeritus of SWG. Mr Anderson said he was privileged to be elected Chair by the members of SWG. “I look forward to working with our diverse membership, which includes representatives from local government, forest product processors, and plantation growers, as well as the wider community. “Together, we will continue to ensure that our region prospers from the softwood plantations that are vital to our economy and environment,” he said. “SWG’s ongoing focus on key priorities will include the protection of softwood plantations from fire; coordinated and effective weed control, especially blackberry; supporting Australia’s forest product needs while addressing climate change and land competition; and advocating for improved infrastructure and showcasing the benefits of softwood plantations.”

The rollout of a new bushfire detection camera network using artificial intelligence (AI) to protect the state’s forest plantations and communities in the South East of South Australia has been completed in time for fire danger season. Industry is now in conversations about trials across other parts of the state. Source: Timberbiz The Pano AI system – introduced for the first time commercially in Australia – aims to improve early fire detection and is part of the State Government’s $2.346 million upgrade of the region’s fire tower network. The program also receives significant support and funding from the state’s forest industries. The network of eight cameras, overseen by the Green Triangle Fire Alliance (GTFA), strengthens extensive fire management and surveillance measures in place across the region, helping to ensure local communities and planation forests are protected. The AI-powered bushfire detection and monitoring system uses ultra-HD 360-degree panoramic cameras, AI, and satellite technology to detect the first signs of fire and assist industry and emergency services’ response to an incident. The network detected 25 unplanned fires in SA during the 2023–24 fire danger season as the cameras were being rolled out, with key incidents detected including the German Flat fire in January and a vehicle arson in Tantanoola in April. The system also provided real time intelligence to aid fire suppression activities. Other measures supporting South Australian communities this fire season include the stationing of a new Blackhawk helicopter at Parafield Airport with more than 30 aircraft in place, as well as the Alert SA app expanding to a multi-hazard platform. The eight camera stations operating across the Limestone Coast contribute to the 15-camera station detection network managed by the forestry industries throughout the wider Green Triangle region into Victoria. A Pano analyst provides first-hand validation of the fire detection, after which notifications are sent to the GTFA and CFS. Incident notification is via an online user interface, Pano360, which includes features like asset and weather map layers to increase situational awareness. Staffed fire towers will continue to operate in the South East to ensure the region’s 130,000 hectares of plantation estate and surrounding community benefit from early fire detection. Analysis of the roll out across the Limestone Coast will be important in considering the AI system’s suitability across other areas of the state.