External News

July 14, 2009: The landmark American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 that narrowly passed through Congress on June 26 has come under fire by environmental critics who see the pared down measure as too little, too late. Originally proposed by Reps. Henry Waxman (D-CA) and Edward Markey (D-MA), the bill went through the wringer on the Hill, coming out with a number of amendments and omissions.

29.6.2009: For the second consecutive month, pulp producers are taking advantage of tighter supply conditions, if not better demand, and are seeking price hikes worldwide. For July, increases have been announced for softwood and hardwoods for North America, Europe and China/Asia. The hikes are generally $20-$30/tonne, but a $20-$40 increases for North American NBSK would put the list at $700.

I have recently been talking to several suppliers and producers in the pulp and paper industry in Asia, and the good news is that it looks as if the Chinese pulp and paper market is on a fast expansion track again. There are new projects, big and small, signed or under discussion again in the recent months, after a quiet period since late last year.

June 30, 2009: The World Bank has approved the readiness plans (R-Plans) for Guyana and Panama, opening the way for both countries to tap grants of up to US$3.6 million for preserving their forests.