Australian timber industry news

As a forestry business OneFortyOne (OFO) wanted to show how timber can be used to achieve a cost-effective carbon neutral build so they have taken all the components that are normally made from concrete and steel and have tried to find a timber alternate. Source: Timberbiz According to the company the sheer volume of timber in this building is a real statement around what it stands for as a company and as an industry. The building was designed by Irving Smith Architects, and constructed by Scott Construction New Zealand. Some of the design highlights include: Glulam posts, the equivalent of concrete in OFO’s design thinking LVL rafters, used those like steel The timber floor is the largest the builders have ever built, and with the use of screw piles they were able to cut down construction time by almost a third. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_H0TbZzxKeE&t=1s

The $3million Timber Region Transition Grant (TRTG) is the final grant on offer as part of the WA Government’s 80 million Native Forest Transition Plan. Source: Timberbiz Applications for the TRTG are open for submissions, offering businesses up to $250,000 in matched funding to support economic diversification and sustainable job creation. If applicants demonstrate at least 50% reliance on the native timber industry, they can apply for grant funding without needing to provide matched funding. This grant aims to foster new industries and innovative business expansion within the native forestry timber region. It is open to eligible businesses in the Great Southern, Peel and South West regions. “The WA Government has invested a record $350 million to establish new softwood plantations across the South West which will create and continue to support local forestry jobs,” said Minister for agriculture and food, forestry and small businesses, Hon Jackie Jarvis. Successful projects will demonstrate potential for positive economic impact, including job creation, enhanced regional productivity and sustainable outcomes in areas that focus on: support tourism and creative industries green energy advanced manufacturing sustainable agriculture job creation. “The Timber Region Transition Grant is the WA Government’s final round of funding available to those in the native forestry timber region, I encourage any businesses who are eligible to apply,” said Ms Jarvis. To assist with applications workshops will be held in Bridgetown, Nannup and Manjimup to provide key information about the grant as well as assessment criteria. These workshops will be held on 9 and 10 September.  Event details and registration links can be found on the Timber Region Transition workshop information 

CLT Toolbox, an innovative leader in mass timber engineering, has announced the launch of a free version of its groundbreaking software. Source: Timberbiz Designed to advance the adoption of sustainable timber construction across Australia, this new version of CLT Toolbox offers engineers, students, and timber enthusiasts’ access to cutting-edge tools and educational resources, empowering a new generation to contribute to a sustainable future. In June CLT in partnership with Timber Unlimited in New Zealand, released parts of its advanced design software free to engineers in New Zealand. The construction industry faces a critical challenge in reducing embodied carbon, a significant contributor to global carbon emissions. Traditional building materials like concrete and steel are major culprits. CLT Toolbox addresses this challenge by providing software solutions that simplify and automate the design of mass timber structures. Mass timber is a sustainable, low-carbon alternative that offers significant environmental benefits. “There are over 10,000 structural engineers in Australia, yet only a small fraction specialise in timber,” said CLT Toolbox CEO Adam Jones. “Our mission is to close this gap by equipping engineers with the tools and knowledge to confidently design with timber, ensuring they can offer sustainable options to their clients.” In Australia, the free version offers essential features for member design, calculating loads, and evaluating the structural integrity of timber elements. With this comprehensive suite of tools, engineers can perform preliminary designs for entire mass timber office or apartment buildings. The software’s embedded educational resources and automated design computations are designed to guide even novice engineers to produce expert-level structural designs. CLT Toolbox’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond just offering software. “We are committed to growing Australia’s mass timber category by educating concrete and steel specialists on the benefits of timber. By broadening the skill sets of engineers, CLT Toolbox ensures that when a client seeks a sustainable option, engineers are equipped to deliver,” said Mr Jones. “Access to the free version has been made possible through the support of leading mass timber suppliers, including ASH, Timberlink, CUSP, XLam, KLH & Xlam Dolomiti. The timber industry has come together to form a strong collaborative unit capable of making mass timber a mainstream material. We’re proud of the diverse industry partners who share our vision and support our mission to foster innovation, sustainability, and excellence in timber construction.” GM Technical and Sales of NeXTimber/Timberlink Jeremy Church said that CLT offering a freemium version of CLT Toolbox gave structural engineers access to design modules, helping them quickly and confidently design projects using engineered timber. “This tool reinforces Timberlink’s commitment to making sustainable timber products more accessible in the construction industry,” he said. Area Sales Manager for KLH Markus Janko said that as a CLT Toolbox partner, KLH was pleased with the free software version’s launch. “The integration of KLH – CLT simplifies design with KLH elements, offering a user-friendly interface for quick calculations, including fire resistance. This partnership enhances our customers’ design experience,” he said. Engineering Design Manager for Australian Sustainable Hardwoods Nathan Benbow said ASH saw the free CLT Toolbox software as transformative. “It empowers engineers with tools to innovate and optimise their projects, simplifies calculations, and improves design efficiency,” he said. “By expanding timber use, we contribute to sustainable building practices and broader adoption of eco-friendly solutions.”

The Softwoods Working Group has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of the Forest Industry Action Plan and the commitment to the community, workers, and the industry in developing this plan. Source: Timberbiz “The plan’s development will be overseen by an Independent Forestry Panel, chaired by Peter Duncan AM,” SWG Chair Peter Crowe OAM said. “We warmly welcome the appointment of Peter Duncan AM as chair of the panel. Mr. Duncan’s extensive experience in strategic infrastructure and primary industries will be invaluable in guiding the panel’s work. “Peter’s leadership, alongside the expertise of Professor Mary O’Kane AC, and the Hon. Mick Veitch, ensures that the panel is well-equipped to navigate the complexities and opportunities for a long-term vision for the success of the forestry and wood products industry in NSW.” Mr Crowe said the South West Slopes region of NSW was recognised as the largest concentrated softwood processing area in the state and was a crucial regional economic hub. “With a gross value of output exceeding $3 billion and supporting approximately 11,000 regional jobs, the SWG and its members are ready to provide expert advice to the panel as it develops the Forest Industry Action Plan,” SWG Executive Officer Carlie Porteous said. “We look forward to a balanced and robust stakeholder engagement process that guarantees the industry has a key seat at the table. “It is vital that the voices of those who work and invest in the forestry sector are integrated into the final plan,” she said. Ms Porteous said the Independent Forestry Panel had been tasked with consulting a broad range of stakeholders and reporting to the Government on the best options to achieve a balance between sustainable timber supplies and environmental commitments. Stakeholders include representatives from the timber industry, forest growers, key SWG members, Commonwealth Government, environmental groups, unions, Aboriginal communities, local government, businesses, related industries, tourism and scientific experts. Ms Porteous said it was important that stakeholders stay informed of the Independent Forestry Panel’s process, and she encouraged stakeholders to register their interest at www.nsw.gov.au/have-your-say/forestry-industry-action-plan

The appointment of an expert panel to lead consultation on a Forestry Industry Action Plan, which will outline the path NSW will take to ensure a sustainable timber industry that aligns with the government’s key environmental priorities has been warmly welcomed by the State’s timber industry. Source: Timberbiz Timber NSW CEO Maree McCaskill said that for too long successive governments had handed a timber or forest industry plan to the industry without any consultation with those businesses and people who effectively live and breathe it every day. “The Minns government is demonstrating willingness to listen and consult with those most impacted by any change and we welcome that opportunity,” she said. The Independent Forestry Panel will be chaired by Peter Duncan AM who has more than 40 years’ experience in primary industries, infrastructure and regional NSW. Professor Mary O’Kane AC and former State politician Mick Veitch will also sit on the Panel. The Panel will be tasked with consulting with a broad range of stakeholders and report to Government on the best options to achieve the balance between sustainable supplies of timber and our environmental commitments. Stakeholders include representatives from the timber industry, forest growers, environment groups, unions, Aboriginal communities, local government, business, related industries, tourism, scientific experts and the Commonwealth Government. The Plan will address the following key areas: Sustainability of current and future forestry operations in NSW; Environmental and cultural values of forests, including threatened species; Community demand for timber products, particularly as relates to NSW housing, construction, mining, transport and retail; The future of softwood and hardwood plantations and the continuation of Private Native Forestry in helping meet timber supply needs; The role of State Forests in maximising the delivery of a range of environmental, economic and social outcomes; Opportunities to realise carbon and biodiversity benefits and support carbon and biodiversity markets, and mitigate and adapt to climate change risks; and Greenhouse gas emission impacts of different uses of forests and assessment of climate change risks to forests. Pentarch Executive Director Stephen Dadd said the independence of the panel members showed a willingness by the NSW Government to allow commonsense and evidence to inform forestry policy. “It is refreshing that the NSW Government has taken a long-term view for our vital timber industry,” he said. “We congratulate the Minister for the Environment and Minister for Regional NSW for taking an evidence-based approach in creating a Forestry Industry Action Plan and the panel which will advise it,” Mr Dadd said. “We’ve seen first-hand the impacts of policy driven by ideology on regional communities in Victoria and Western Australia.” He said the independence of the IFP members showed a commitment by the NSW Government to ensure science and commonsense informed future forestry policy. State Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said that whether it was hardwood, softwood or private native forest, NSW forests and the native species which called them home had faced challenges including bushfires, floods and the ongoing risks due to climate change. “We want your input on what forests and a sustainable forestry industry will look like in the next 30 years. “The expert panel will consult a wide range of stakeholders, and we encourage everyone to have their say.” Ms McCaskill said that the forest industry had been operating in NSW for nearly 150 years and had a long term view of sustainability and the capacity to supply to an ever increasing demand for hardwood and softwood timber for NSW housing, construction, mining, transport, energy and retail while respecting the need for conservation, national parks and reserves. “NSW can have both, providing there is recognition that the science that underpins selective, sustainable harvesting in state and private forests, supplemented by plantations, will deliver positive outcomes for nature and for living standards in NSW,” she said. “After all, 88 per cent of NSW Crown forests are already protected in National Parks and conservation reserves and 12 per cent is available for production in state forests”. Ms McCaskill said that Timber NSW members provided the majority of hardwood products in NSW. “We call out the false economy of pressuring government to swap domestic timber harvested from 0.3% of available forests each year, for imported timber from environmentally unregulated countries often using child labour,” she said. The panel overseeing the process represented a diversity and depth of skills and expertise to assist the industry and its vital supply chain to deliver major dividends to NSW and reduce the cost of living. “We look forward to contributing to this plan.” Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the consultative work that is set to go into this Action Plan would ensure all stakeholders were listened to so “we arrive at the best future for the timber industry and sustainable state forests”. “We need both trees and wood, and we must strike the right balance for communities and our environment in regional NSW,” she said. “Timber is a crucial part of our everyday lives, with timber needed for community and government priorities such as housing, transport infrastructure, electricity distribution, and freight transport. “The families, businesses and communities that make up this industry will be considered for the Action Plan. Their knowledge and experience will be essential for understanding the issues and finding the solutions. “Our timber workers also play a crucial role, when we need it most, to protect our forests and our communities during bushfires. They are part of our frontline in those difficult times, where their skills and equipment are critical in the fight. To stay informed on the Independent Forestry Panel’s process, please register your interest at www.nsw.gov.au/have-your-say/forestry-industry-action-plan    

New, low-carbon construction materials and technologies allow the building and use of greener, climate-resilient homes in Canada which is why the Canadian government is funding FPInnovations for three projects. Source: Timberbiz The funding includes investments to support the use of low-carbon Canadian wood in the Canadian construction market and a project to support the use of zero-emissions vehicles in the forestry and commercial transportation sectors. These investments are provided through Natural Resources Canada’s (NRCan) Green Construction through Wood (GCWood) program and the Zero Emission Vehicle Awareness Initiative (ZEVAI). To support the expansion of low-carbon construction materials, FPInnovations will collect and analyse market data and develop market intelligence with several collaborators in provinces across Canada. This will involve research and testing activities to enable the commercialization of various wood building systems and to generate the necessary data to enable these wood-based systems to be adopted in Canadian building codes. NRCan is providing more than Can$2.5 million through its GCWood Program to FPInnovations for these two initiatives. FPInnovations will also develop resources to support the use of vehicles that are zero-emission or use clean fuels through demonstrations, short operational trials and highlights — helping to reduce emissions and enhance the modernization of the Canadian forestry and commercial transportation sectors. NRCan is investing more than Can$212,000 to FPInnovations through the ZEVAI to support this initiative. Through a historic series of investments, including the GCWood program, the Government of Canada is helping forest sector workers in Montreal and across the country to adopt the most cutting-edge technologies available to drive down costs and help the construction industry access the low-carbon Canadian wood products it needs to build more homes for Canadians. The Green Construction through Wood (GCWood) program encourages the use of innovative wood-based building technologies in construction projects. It supports Canada’s commitment to reach 2030 and 2050 emissions reduction targets under the Paris Agreement and advance long-term priorities regarding greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction. GCWood invests in wood construction projects that generate many benefits, including: reduced GHG emissions from renewable and sustainable resources that help decarbonize the built environment accelerated adoption of innovative building technologies and systems updated building codes that allow for taller and larger wood buildings affordable housing and community infrastructure.

According to the Finnish Natural Resources Institute (Luke), roundwood harvested for industrial purposes in Finland was 4.1 million cubic metres in June 2024, an increase of 4% compared with June 2023. Sources: Global Wood, Luke Despite this rise, the volume was 3% lower than the average for the past five years. The total volume of removals in the first half of 2024 reached 29.4 million m3, lagging behind last year’s figure by 1.2 million m3. The removals included 2.0 million m3 of sawlogs and 2.1 million m3 of pulpwood. Industrial roundwood removals from non-industrial private forests accounted for 3.1 million m3, reflecting a 3% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, forests owned by forest industry companies and state-owned forests saw a total of 0.9 million m3 removed, an 8% rise from the same period in the previous year. Energywood removals in Finland totaled 713,000 m3 in June 2024, with 35% of this volume comprising delimbed stems and whole trees. From January to June 2024, industrial roundwood felling volumes in Finland reached 29.4 million m3, a 4% decline compared with the previous year and a 5% drop from the five-year average. Logs accounted for 12.8 million m3 of this total, showing stability from last year and a 1% increase over the five-year average. Pine and spruce logs had mixed results, with pine logs dropping by 1% while spruce logs remained unchanged from last year but fell 3% below the five-year average. Hardwood logs experienced a 3% growth compared to both the previous year and the five-year average. Pulpwood felling volumes reached 16.5 million m3, down 7% year-over-year and 8% below the five-year average. Specifically, pine pulpwood fell by 5% year-over-year and 6% below the five-year average, while spruce pulpwood decreased by 7% compared to the previous year and 5% from the five-year average. Hardwood pulpwood saw the steepest decline, dropping 9% from last year and 17% compared to the five-year average. Energywood felling volumes in Finland reached 2.8 million m3, decreasing by 5% compared with the previous year but rising 8% above the five-year average.  

FSC is celebrating the entry into force of the European Union’s Nature Restoration Law, a major step forward in the effort to restore and protect Europe’s forests and natural ecosystems. Source: Timberbiz Effective from 18 August 2024, the Nature Restoration Law sets forth ambitious goals to restore degraded ecosystems throughout Europe. “The implementation of the Nature Restoration Law marks a significant development in Europe’s commitment to environmental stewardship. It represents a significant move towards addressing habitat loss, strengthening ecosystems, and fostering long-term environmental resilience,” says Anand Punja, Chief Engagement and Partnerships Officer at FSC International. This landmark legislation is designed to enhance biodiversity, mitigate climate change, and ensure the preservation of Europe’s natural landscapes for future generations. The legislation aligns closely with FSC’s mission to uphold responsible forest management, and balances ecological integrity with social and economic benefits. A global organization with a multi-stakeholder approach, FSC is committed to collaborating with EU Member States, the EU Commission, industries, NGOs, and local communities to support the effective implementation of this law. “As the leader in responsible forest stewardship, FSC offers a range of tools that can help countries achieve their forest restoration targets and ensure a sustainable future for forests for all, forever,” Mr Punja said. To support these efforts, FSC offers initiatives like FSC Verified Impact and the FSC Remedy Framework, which aim to promote sustainable restoration efforts worldwide.

Ancient fossil beans about the size of modern limes, and among the largest seeds in the fossil record, may provide new insight into the evolution of today’s diverse Southeast Asian and Australian rainforests, according to Penn State researchers who identified the plants. Source: Timberbiz They discovered that the fossils represent a now extinct legume genus that lived in Southeast Asia that was closely related to modern Castanospermum, known as the black bean tree. This tree is only found today in the coastal rainforests of northern Australia and neighbouring islands. The team, which also included paleontologists based in Indonesia, Canada, the United Kingdom and elsewhere in the United States, reported their findings in the International Journal of Plant Sciences. The fossils, discovered in Indonesian Borneo, date back to the Eocene period approximately 34 to 40 million years ago. They suggest that the ancestors of the black bean tree migrated from Asia into Australia during the tectonic-plate collision that brought the landmasses together and allowed for an exchange of plants and animals between the continents. The collision of the Southeast Asian and Australian tectonic plates, which began about 20 million years ago and continues today, led to a large exchange of plant and animal species between the landmasses, the scientists said. The findings provide the first macrofossil evidence of a plant lineage moving from Asia into Australia after the Asia-Australia tectonic collision, the researchers said. The fossils are also the oldest definite fossil legumes — the bean family — from the Malay Archipelago and the first fossil record anywhere of plants related to the black bean tree. “These fossil seeds suggest that the ancient relatives of Castanospermum migrated into Australia from Southeast Asia during the tectonic collision event and later went extinct in Asia,” said Edward Spagnuolo, a doctoral student in the Department of Geosciences at Penn State and lead author of the study. The suggestion is in opposition to most of the existing direct macrofossil evidence for plant migrations, which represents lineages that moved from Australia into Asia. According to the scientists, the lack of direct evidence for movement from Asia to Australia is at least partially due to a poor plant fossil record in the Malay Archipelago, which includes the Philippines, Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and parts of Malaysia. “It’s really hard to collect fossils in this part of the world,” Spagnuolo said. “Most surface rocks are destroyed by the heavy tropical rainfall or covered by vegetation, agriculture and buildings, so there are few places to look for fossils other than mine and quarry exposures. There is also very little paleontological infrastructure. We’re fortunate to have a partnership with Indonesian paleontologists at Institut Teknologi Bandung in Java, who make this work possible.” An international research team, including Peter Wilf, professor of geosciences at Penn State, collected the fossils in 2014 from the seams of a coal mine in South Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo. The collection included three large beans, pollen samples and about 40 leaves. Along with plants, the team also discovered diverse fossilized bird tracks, burrowing traces of marine invertebrates and fossil turtle remains, among other fossils recently published or under continued study. The seeds are some of the largest in the fossil record, excluding coconuts and some other palms. They would have grown in a pod that most likely reached up to 3 feet long, or the length of a baseball bat, and fit up to five seeds, the scientists said. After field work, the fossils were loaned to Penn State, where the seeds underwent CT scan imaging. Spagnuolo and Wilf analysed the fossil beans taxonomically, describing anatomical characters useful for identification, and found they most closely resembled modern Castanospermum, which has no previous fossil representatives. “Although some of the characteristics of these fossils are common across legumes, there is no fossil or living legume group besides Castanospermum that has a combination of features closely matching the fossils,” Spagnuolo said. “That makes us confident with our identification.” The fossil seeds were named Jantungspermum gunnellii. The genus name refers to the heart shape of the fossil — jantung means heart in Indonesian and spermum means seed in Latin. The species name honours the late Gregg Gunnell, a vertebrate paleontologist formerly of the Duke University Lemur Centre, who led the field trip. Legumes are a diverse family of flowering plants, with about 20,000 species alive today that include many large tropical trees, the scientists said. But despite their abundance and diversity in modern ecosystems, these seeds are the only definite legume fossils from before the Neogene period, the interval between 2.6 million and 23 million years ago, in the Southeast Asian wet tropics. “The tropics are the most diverse biome on Earth,” Wilf said. “We know very little from the fossil record about how tropical ecosystems evolved, especially in Asia, even as extinction risks are rising quickly, and we lose vast areas every year to deforestation. The Penn State paleobotany group is working on this problem in the field with colleagues in several Asian countries, and the new giant fossil beans from Borneo are a fantastic example of the discovery potential.” These findings confirm legumes’ presence in Southeast Asia and fill a critical hole in the fossil record, the scientists said. “We have a great legume fossil record for much of the world but not Southeast Asia,” Spagnuolo said. “Our work highlights the neglected paleobotanical potential of this region and the need for more fossil sampling in the Malay Archipelago.”

OneFortyOne has launched its photo competition, Corporate Affairs Manager Charlene Riley said the competition was designed to inspire students to venture into the forest and forge a deeper connection with their natural surroundings. Source: Timberbiz “Plantation pine forests are an iconic feature of our local landscape,” Ms Riley said. “The competition aims to encourage students to explore these incredible places and share their unique perspectives.” In addition to their photos, students will be asked to write a few words to share what they love about the forest. “The highlight of the competition in previous years has been reading why people love the forest,” Ms Riley said. “We’re looking forward to seeing some different perspectives from students this year, in both the photography and the written element of the competition.” Winners will be selected in primary school, and secondary school categories, and awarded with their choice of a new iPad Air, DJI drone, or GoPro. To enter, send photos, together with a completed entry form to weloveforests@onefortyone.com. Entries close Sunday 13 October 2024.

Three recently completed, FWPA-funded projects using data spanning 30 years in Australian forestry plantations have resulted in actionable recommendations and guidance for improving productivity, profitability and health of plantation forests. Sources: Timberbiz, FWPA The three projects were: A tool to predict fertiliser response & profitability in softwood plantations across Australia Optimising Nutrition Management of Hardwood Plantations for Sustainable Productivity & Profitability Optimising productivity of hardwood plantations: yield gap analysis for Eucalyptus globulus plantations in southern Australia Findings have provided insight into nutrition and environmental factors that limit plantation productivity. The three projects were developed to support increasing productivity from Australia’s plantation estate, which has remained static or in decline, in terms of area, for the past decade. “There is a strong desire within the industry for increased output to keep in-line with increased demand,” said lead researcher and McGrath Forestry Services Principal, John McGrath. “Land in Australia, especially high-quality land, is very expensive. That means the best option for foresters is to make sure they get the best out of the land they currently have.” The three projects each investigated aspects of enhancing productivity. The Softwood Nutrition Project looked to increase confidence in the use of fertiliser by providing reliable predictions of plantation response. The Hardwood Nutrition Project encompassed a network of trials across southern Australia, similarly, looking to provide predictability and guidance around fertiliser response and usage to increase productivity. It also observed interactions with climate, such as temperature and water, and soil nutrition. The Optimising Productivity – Hardwood Yield Gap Project looked at the historic gaps between potential hardwood plantation yield and productivity in southern Australia, compared with actual yields. In assessing why there may be a gap, the project aimed to identify management actions to reduce it. More information about the research is available here.

Forest owners are concerned that the environmental and socioeconomic benefits of pine forests have been misrepresented by rhetoric in a new land use report. The report, Why Pines?, produced and published by Our Land and Water (Toitū te Whenua, Toiora te Wai) National Science Challenge (OLW), details the results of four research programs which looked at future land use under the current economic incentives and policies. Source: Timberbiz In each of the programs, all modelling indicated that increasing areas of exotic pine forest and decreasing areas of sheep and beef farming would be the most viable way of improving New Zealand’s environmental performance while achieving an acceptable level of economic return in future. New Zealand Forest Owners Association (NZFOA) chief executive, Dr Elizabeth Heeg, says while the sector welcomes the science and modelling behind the report, a more critical examination of land use evidence is needed. “The recommendations lack scientific evidence, and the narrative fails to frame forestry as an important land use,” Dr Heeg said. Water quality was a core focus of the research program, with forestry found to outperform other land uses, particularly where farmland had been converted to pine. “Well managed pine is hugely beneficial to water quality, improving water nutrient levels and sediment yields,” Dr Heeg said. “The report’s findings mirror years of credible science analysing water quality in pine forests. “Paradoxically, that evidence doesn’t seem to be the outcome the OLW were looking for, with the authors raising more concern over forestry’s water quality than other land uses detailed in the report. “It is disappointing to see the results interpreted in such a dramatic way when pine is evidently a tool New Zealand can use in its policies and practices tool kit.” Dr Heeg says concerns over a loss of biodiversity from conversion to pine is also unfounded. “New Zealand’s pine forests house incredibly rich and healthy ecosystems that should be considered a valued part of New Zealand’s landscape,” she said. “They’re home to many invertebrate communities and 120 native fauna species which have been documented using pine forests as habitat. Species, such as the kiwi, are well protected by the high degree of pest management and monitoring carried out by forest owners too. “Pine forests support a rich mosaic of biodiversity, including protected areas of indigenous forest within the estate and riparian planting.” A mosaic approach to land use will be increasingly important given modelling indicating that around half the sheep and beef farming area will convert to forestry by 2050. New planting is also expected to expand the forest estate to an estimated 3.5 million hectares. Expansion of the estate won’t be as exponential as the report suggests however, noting that the OLW’s modelling is at odds with the Climate Change Commission’s 1.4-million-hectare prediction. “Transport costs, energy costs and a range of other factors have caused a downturn in new planting in recent times,” Dr Heeg said. “These inputs don’t appear to be accounted for in the modelling. “While expansion of the forest estate will be inevitable if New Zealand is to meet its climate change targets, forestry would need to multiply its new planting area by at least 25 to achieve that sort of growth by 2050.” Dr Heeg says the report’s emphasis on forestry’s expansion needn’t mean other land uses won’t be accommodated. “Forest owners are generally supportive of integrating a range of tree species on land, not just pine, to improve the landscape while returning benefits to the community,” she said. “Planting more trees – be that native or exotic species – helps diversify farmland, improve environmental performance, provide timber for construction and reduce emissions. “Landowners looking to exit sheep or beef farming or wanting to diversify their land by planting more trees should have the mandate to do so. “Forestry provides landowners with options, particularly for hillside landscapes that are ill- suited to other land uses. This integration benefits the community through jobs and generation of regional GDP too. “It needn’t be a one or the other approach as the report implies. Forestry and farming can co-exist. “What we wouldn’t want to see is a restriction of land uses and growing activities to slow conversion where there is a lack of science to justify it.”

The New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) welcomes the recent publication of the paper titled Why Pines? A Context for Recent Research Results from the Our Land and Water science challenge. This important research provides a valuable context for understanding the role of pine forestry in New Zealand’s landscape, particularly in terms of land conversion and economic viability. Source: Timberbiz However, while NZIF acknowledges the insights presented, it believes the discussion should not be limited to a binary choice between pine and other types of trees. Instead, the focus should be on the strategic incorporation of a wide range of tree species into New Zealand’s landscapes. “Forestry is not a matter of choosing one type of tree over another. The goal should be to create a mosaic of farm paddocks and trees which enhances both economic returns and environmental sustainability,” said James Treadwell, President of NZIF. “We need to think about forestry in a holistic manner, placing trees where they will deliver the greatest benefits.” NZIF advocates for a strategic approach where plantation species, such as pines, are integrated into farms on less productive land. These trees can contribute to New Zealand’s emissions trading scheme (ETS) and serve as a valuable future timber resource. In parallel, native trees and long-lived species should be prioritised in riparian zones, on steep and highly erodible land, and in areas of farms where harvesting would be uneconomic. These native plantings play a critical role in enhancing biodiversity, protecting waterways, and stabilising soils, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem.  They can also be entered into the ETS providing the landowner income. A practical rule of thumb to guide landowners might be trees should be planted in areas where sheep and beef are creating contour tracks around hillsides. This approach not only supports sustainable land use but also promotes biodiversity and enhances the resilience of the landscape.

The Tasmanian Forest Products Association has welcomed news the Australian Senate will be conducting an inquiry into the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme (TFES) over the coming months. Source: Timberbiz TFPA Chief Executive, Nick Steel, congratulated Tasmanian Senator Tammy Tyrrell for moving for an inquiry into the scheme, saying the existing TFES model is no longer fit for purpose. It will look into the merits and weaknesses of the scheme and if it is currently fit for purpose, whether it has kept up with increasing costs over the past decade and it’s cost and budget. “This scheme was set up almost 50 years ago and it’s clear it’s no longer working for Tasmanian businesses,” Mr Steel said. “The TFPA has long argued that the current indexation model in the scheme is out of date – no longer keeping up with the exponentially increasing costs to move freight to the mainland that we have seen in recent decades. “Australia is currently in a cost-of-living crisis. It’s being particularly felt here in Tasmania, not only by consumers but also by businesses trying to sell to the other states. “Being an island, Tasmania is at a distinct disadvantage compared to other states when shipping goods to their markets. The Whitlam Government introduced the TFES in the 1970s to go some way to level the playing field between mainland and Tasmanian businesses. “However, to work properly it’s essential to regularly review the scheme to ensure Its original purpose remains relevant.” Mr Steel also welcomed news the Senate committee will hold hearings across Tasmania, as well as news the committee’s report will be handed down by the end of the year.

Following ongoing vocal bipartisan support for forestry in the Tasmanian State Parliament, the Tasmanian Forest Products Association (TFPA) has welcomed similar support from the two major parties in our nation’s capital this week. Source: Timberbiz TFPA Chief Executive, Nick Steel, said it was fantastic to see support from both Labor and the Liberals for the responsible, respected and renewable industry in the Australian Senate. “Following National Forestry Day earlier … the Australian Senate debated the Illegal Logging Prohibition Amendment (Strengthening Measures to Prevent Illegal Timber Trade) Bill 2024  and both Labor and the Liberals loudly proclaimed their ongoing commitment to supporting forestry,” Mr Steel said. “Both major parties know that our sustainable forestry industry is essential to support our regional communities, a strong and thriving economy, and the best way for Tasmania and the nation to meet our lofty climate change goals.” Speaking on the Bill, Tasmanian Senator and Shadow Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Jonathon Duniam, reaffirmed the Coalition’s commitment to our industry, and the thousands employed by forestry businesses across the country. “Obviously, the coalition is a big supporter of the forestry industry in Australia. We have a fine history when it comes to the processing of timber products, harvesting and managing forests and ensuring we do it to the world’s best standards,” Senator Duniam said. “Whether it be native forestry or plantation, we do it to the world’s best standard, we do it sustainably and we do it in a way we should be proud of.” Labor also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the industry, with Victorian Senator Raff Ciccone declaring the Government also backs our timber workers. “Yesterday marked National Forestry Day, so I wanted to celebrate the enormous environmental, economic and social contribution of our forest industry and he workers behind it,” Senator Ciccone said. “With global demand for timber expected to quadruple by 2050, I’m proud to be part of a government that supports sustainable forest management in Australia and that recognises the crucial role the forestry sector plays in mitigating climate change and driving local economies, particularly those in the regions.” Mr Steel said strong support from the major parties gives the industry confidence that our jobs and future is secured across the country. “A strong forestry sector is essential to Tasmanian and Australian future prosperity. Our industry holds many regional communities together, and the products our industry produces are used by Australian every day,” Mr Steel said. “Despite the mistruths spoken by some of the extreme minor parties, forestry is here to stay and has a bright future across the country.”  

The new DTL35 compact track loader is the company’s first machine of its type and now available in North America. Pushing. Lifting. Digging. Land clearing. These are all tasks that the new DEVELON DTL35 compact track loader can easily complete. Source: Timberbiz The DTL35 compact track loader is equipped with a reliable D34 engine, which is also used in the DEVELON DD100 dozer. The engine helps minimize downtime, reduce maintenance costs and ensure consistent performance in demanding work conditions. Featuring one of the most powerful in-class engines a 115.3 hp the DTL35 helps operators gain traction and manoeuvrability in tight spaces. It’s equipped with features to help maximize productivity and efficiency. Two rubber track patterns are available, and both include a wide and narrow version. A wide multi-bar track comes standard, while a block pattern is optional. The wide multi-bar tracks offer increased contact with surfaces for better traction. This design increases stability and reduces vibration and the risk of slippage. The optional block pattern is designed for more durability on challenging terrains like rock, gravel or uneven ground. It also minimizes ground disturbance, making these tracks a good option for landscaping and turf management. Ride control reduces shocks and vibrations, which enhances stability for the bucket and minimizes spillage when the compact track loader navigates rough terrain while carrying full loads. The auto return to dig automatically returns the arms to the lowered position, saving operators time while delivering a more consistent digging depth. The standard 2-speed travel feature allows the compact track loader to operate at the best speed for the job: the higher speed for traveling longer distances or quickly moving between job sites, and the lower speed for stabilizing the machine during more precise and controlled movements in challenging conditions. The reversible fan protects against dust and debris, keeping the compact track loader’s engine cleaner and cooler to help extend the life of the machine. The rearview camera provides an additional view, allowing operators to easily see behind the machine. An optional around view monitor (AVM) camera system with ultrasonic proximity sensors displays a 270-degree view of the machine’s surroundings for greater confidence when operating the loader in tight work areas or busy job sites. The ultrasonic proximity sensors enhance safety by alerting operators to nearby objects as they back up the machine. The vertical lift arm configuration allows the DTL35 compact track loader to extend its reach forward, making it easier to deposit materials into high-sided trucks, bins or agriculture mixers. To help maintain the loader’s stability, a self-leveling feature automatically adjusts the attachment to remain level as the arms are raised or lowered. This stability is crucial for ensuring safe operation. The bucket shake feature helps shake loose, or release materials stuck to the attachment and facilitates quick and efficient dumping without the need to stop and manually clean the machine. The DTL35 compact track loader has a 3-foot-wide spacious interior, a large polycarbonate swing-out door, electric over hydraulic controls and a roof panel with an unobstructed view of what’s overhead. The adjustable air-suspension heated seat offers superior comfort compared to traditional seats. Air-filled cushions adjust to the operator’s weight and movement, providing a smooth and comfortable ride, especially over uneven terrain. The air-suspension system helps absorb shocks and vibrations, reducing the impact of bumps and rough terrain. The torsion suspension system also helps absorb shocks and vibrations over rough or uneven terrain. This results in a smoother ride throughout the day compared to traditional fixed-frame machines. Attachment changes are easy on the DTL35 compact track loader. It’s equipped with a hydraulic quick coupler that allows fast and tool-free attachment changes, significantly reducing the time required for manual attachments. The DTL35 is offered with more than a dozen DEVELON attachments to help operators complete multiple tasks with one machine.

A team led by Professor Erica Walker from Brown University in the US has received federal funding to conduct the first air-quality and community noise assessment of Mississippi communities impacted by the production of wood pellets. Source: Timberbiz As the global demand for clean energy alternatives surges, the wood pellet industry, often touted as a sustainable fuel option, is projected to nearly double in size by 2026. In the United States, the industry’s growth is most pronounced in the rural South, where 91 wood pellet manufacturing plants are situated, constituting 75% of US production. Mississippi alone is home to seven wood pellet plants, four fully operational and three soon to open (or in early development) that are anticipated to be the largest in the world. But this growing industry is facing scrutiny over its environmental, health and social impacts; similar to fossil fuel refineries, wood pellet plants are more than twice as likely to be located in predominantly Black and poor communities. Ms Walker, RGSS Assistant Professor of Epidemiology at the Brown University School of Public Health, and her team of researchers have received a US$5.8 million grant from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences for their investigations into the emissions from wood pellet plants in Mississippi. This work represents the first study of wood pellet emissions on human health in the United States. “It is fascinating but not surprising that predominantly Black and/or poor communities across Mississippi are being asked to undergird the shift to renewable and sustainable energy production,” Ms Walker said. “When these large wood pellet companies move into these communities, they are bringing with them environmental externalities, which may negatively impact the towns and cities nearby. This award provides us with the opportunity to actually spell out what these environmental externalities are and to what extent they may negatively impact the health and well-being of the surrounding community.” In collaboration with Dr Krystal Martin from Greater Greener Gloster Project, Dr Courtney Roper from the University of Mississippi, and Dr Sharelle Barber from Drexel University, Ms Walker is expanding her research into the emissions from the industry in the state of Mississippi specifically noise, particulate matter, black carbon, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCS), which potentially exceed the thresholds established by the Clean Air Act by up to five times. Ms Walker and her team have spent the last year enrolling families with children, collecting survey and biological information with the aim of understanding how these emissions are impacting children across the life course. They are focused on the Mississippi town of Gloster, home to 897 people, of which 71% are Black and 38.6% live in poverty, with an annual median income of $22,131. They point out that vulnerable populations and children in particular are impacted by air pollution emitted from wood pellet production. Proximity to these plants is associated with a statistically significant higher risk of hospitalization for respiratory illnesses and increased asthma-like symptoms in children. “Mississippi’s children rank 49th in overall child well-being according to a recent KidsCount report,” Ms Walker said. “I am excited about being able to consider the exposome (air, noise, water, visual and soil) pollution and follow the health of these young children until adulthood.” Ms Walker’s preliminary findings are the first air-quality and noise measurements taken in a Mississippi-based wood pellet-impacted community. She and her team measured their results against an air and noise pollution monitoring campaign in Mendenhall, Mississippi, a town with no current industrial activity. In Mendenhall, 34% of residents are Black, 35.8% live in poverty and residents have an annual median income of US$35,956. “When comparing air and noise pollution concentrations in Gloster to those in Mendenhall,” the authors write in their first report, “air and noise pollutant concentrations in Gloster are magnitudes higher, even after adjusting for meteorological conditions.” Over the next five years, and with the support of the NIH, the team will be launching a study quantifying the health impacts of wood pellet manufacturing in three types of communities: those with an operational wood pellet plant, those with a proposed wood pellet plant, and those with no wood pellet plants and no (or limited) industrial manufacturing. They will be conducting a combined noise and air pollution assessment and will use these measurements to assess their impact on children’s respiratory health and stress. They will also engage the community by providing research training for Mississippi-based high-school, community college, undergraduate and graduate students, as well as older adults – who will be using the environmental-literacy awareness tools and the app developed by Walker, NoiseScore.

Canada’s BC Council of Forest Industries Vice President & Chief Economist Kurt Niquidet issued a media statement to express concerns about the serious economic implications of the impending railway strikes. Source: Timberbiz “The BC Council of Forest Industries calls for all parties – employers, unions, and the federal government – to consider the far-reaching consequences of a railway shutdown and to work urgently towards a resolution,” he said. “Rail transportation is the backbone of our industry, enabling the movement of lumber, pulp, and paper products across North America and to global markets. The potential disruption of these services poses a severe risk to the forest sector and the economic stability of forestry-dependent communities across the province. A simultaneous work stoppage at CN and CPKC could result in tens of millions of dollars in weekly losses for the forest products manufacturing sector.” Mr Niquidet emphasized that the majority of the forest sector’s products rely on rail transport, particularly for exports to the United States. “Within the first week of a strike, we could face widespread mill curtailments, further threatening jobs and economic activity in our communities. “The impacts of a rail shutdown will extend far beyond our industry. The broader economic fallout on British Columbia could be devastating, disrupting the flow of goods, triggering job losses, and creating profound uncertainty in the rural communities that are the backbone of our sector. This situation underscores the critical importance of maintaining a reliable and uninterrupted transportation network to safeguard Canada’s competitive position in global markets. “Natural resources are the lifeblood of Canada’s economy, and our railways are the arteries that keep this lifeblood flowing. Any interruption to this essential infrastructure risks bringing our economy to a halt, with workers and communities bearing the brunt of the impact. “We urge all parties to find an immediate resolution.”  

Great Wrap, a B Corp Certified material science company, has partnered with Opal one of Australia and New Zealand’s leading cardboard packaging and recycling companies, to exclusively offer the only Australian made Compostable Machine Pallet Wrap for businesses of all sizes in Australia and New Zealand, enabling them to divert traditional pallet wrap away from landfills. Source: Timberbiz Great Wrap’s Certified Compostable Machine Pallet Wrap, which is certified by the Australasian Bioplastics Association, is made with compostable biopolymers and plant-based oils, is a packaging solution for businesses that secures pallet loads while minimising supply chain waste. Given Australia generates 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, there is an urgent need to adopt compostable materials. Opal Packaging Plus, which has been appointed as the exclusive distributor of the Certified Compostable Machine Pallet Wrap, is a business unit of Opal. Great Wrap will add to Opal Packaging Plus’ more than 15,000 product range and is the first compostable stretch wrap it offers. “Our machine pallet wrap stands out because it’s fully compostable, capable of a 250% pre-stretch, operates smoothly on high-speed lines, and maintains high tension for ultimate reliability. Our wrap is denser and stronger than traditional wrap, meaning our customers can reduce their wrap thickness to achieve the same results as they would with traditional wrap,” said Jordy Kay, Co-founder of Great Wrap. The Australian Government has set clear national packaging targets including 100% of packaging to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025, and 70% of plastic packaging to be recycled or composted by 2025. “Globally, people have been trying to recycle plastic packaging for 50 years, but only 9% of our recycled materials go through the recycling system, showing us the infrastructure isn’t perfect, and emphasising the need to diversify and explore more end-of-life options, such as commercial composting, so we aren’t reliant on one waste stream,” said Julia Kay, Co-founder of Great Wrap. While currently targeting the Australian business landscape, Great Wrap is also working to build a biorefinery that will produce a marine-degradable material called PHA, to continue to change the packaging landscape. Later this year, Great Wrap is also planning to supply their Compostable Hand Pallet Wrap for exclusive distribution through Opal Packaging Plus.

The Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association of NZ (WPMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Don Hammond to the role of independent Chair effective 9 September 2024. Source: Timberbiz Mr Hammond is the current Independent Chair of Phytos, a Fonterra Cooperative Council member, was a shareholder and Chair of a sawmilling and value add timber business, the inaugural Government appointed chair for the Game Animal Council, an independent director of the Bioprotection Centre of Research Excellence at Lincoln and has been chair on the board of various private companies with many of these in the forestry space. Mr Hammond has interests across forestry, aviation, property, horticulture and dairy farming. “I believe my knowledge of and experience within the forest side of the sector has the potential to bring a different paradigm to WPMA and assist in creating synergies which will allow greater benefit for all parties,” Mr Hammond said. Mark Ross, WPMA’s Chief Executive said that on behalf of the board we are delighted to have Mr Hammond as the new Chair. “He is a highly reputable governance professional with experience in various industries, including wood products and forestry. With the sector having a significant role to play in New Zealand’s future direction Don’s leadership, strategic thinking and clarity of purpose will assist in steering wood processing and manufacturing into our next stage of economic growth and sustainability,” Mr Ross said. The WPMA Board would like to acknowledge and thank the outgoing Chair, John Eastwood, for his outstanding contribution to WPMA. Mr Hammond is a Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) who has extensive experience across the forestry sector and his commitment to sustainable management make him an ideal leader for this critical role. He brings a wealth of knowledge and governance experience to his new position, having served in various leadership roles across forestry and farming. His deep understanding of the forestry sector, combined with his strategic vision, will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening the synergies between wood processing, manufacturing, and forest management. This appointment is a significant recognition of the expertise and influence professional foresters like Mr Hammond bring to the broader industry. “Don Hammond’s appointment as Chair of WPMA is a tremendous achievement and a testament to his dedication to the forestry sector,” said James Treadwell, president of the NZIF. “His leadership will be invaluable in guiding the wood processing and manufacturing industry towards greater economic growth and sustainability. This appointment also underscores the crucial role professional foresters and NZIF members play in every part of the sector, from sustainable forest management to innovative wood product development.” As the sector continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change, economic shifts, and technological advancements, the involvement of skilled professionals like Mr Hammond is more important than ever. The NZIF believes the expertise and ethical standards upheld by its members are key to ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of New Zealand’s forestry and wood processing industries. The NZIF is proud to support its members in taking on leadership roles which shape the future of the forestry sector, and it is confident Mr Hammond’s tenure as Chair of WPMA will lead to significant advancements for the industry and contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for New Zealand.