Australian timber industry news

The Segezha Group has launched an extensive reverse engineering program to maintain and upgrade its industrial equipment at Segezha Pulp and Paper Mill, the company announced in its Telegram channel. Source: Nip Impressions The initiative follows a halt in equipment supplies from Western manufacturers after sanctions were imposed on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. As Western suppliers suspended operations, Segezha and other Russian forest industry firms have turned to Chinese manufacturers or in-house solutions to maintain production. Before the sanctions, Segezha relied heavily on suppliers like Austria’s Andritz AG and Germany’s Voith for critical machinery. Andritz had upgraded cooking plant No. 4 and other fibre line equipment, while Voith installed paper machine No. 11 at Segezha’s facility. Since sanctions were introduced, Segezha has begun using reverse engineering, a process involving 3D scanning and digital modelling of machinery components to replicate or improve parts that are no longer available. This method generates detailed computer-aided design (CAD) models that guide precise manufacturing. The company plans to accelerate its import substitution strategy in 2024-25, targeting the replacement of key components such as press rolls and seals, as well as conducting repairs on the headbox of paper machine No. 9. According to Segezha Group, digital “twins,” created through laser scanning, will facilitate the precise manufacturing of these parts. This approach aims to enhance production stability and further minimize dependence on foreign suppliers, the company stated.

Tigercat has replaced the 250D loader with a new and improved 250E model. Tigercat 250 series loaders are a staple on southern US landings for tasks such as delimbing, slashing, merchandising and loading trucks. Source: Timberbiz Among other improvements, the latest 250 series iteration has an improved operator’s cab, greater swing torque, and a new boom system. On account of the increased swing torque, the boom system has been strengthened to handle the increased lateral forces now available to the operator for tough pull-through delimbing applications. The boom cylinders are cushioned at the end of stroke for smoother boom operation. A through-tip yoke routes hydraulic hoses to the grapple through the end of the boom for increased hose protection. The new operator’s station is roomier with 16% greater internal volume, enhancing leg room and adding width. The joysticks and switches are mounted on the armrests within comfortable reach. An improved climate control system allows the operator to set the desired temperature for a more comfortable and temperature-consistent working environment. Climate controlled cupholders keep drinks hot or cold for longer. Dedicated in-cabin storage areas include a space for a full size Tigercat insulated lunchbox. Operator visibility has been improved with larger front and side windows. The wiper motor, radio and touchscreen display control system have all been relocated for improved sightlines. A work light has been added to on the right side of the engine enclosure for better visibility to the delimber during early morning and low light operating conditions. The redesigned swing motor cover further improves the operator’s line of sight to the work area. The cover has integrated storage for tools and grease. The DEF tank fill cap has been repositioned lower on the machine for added ease of access and safety. The 250E is also equipped with an electric pump hydraulic oil fill system. These added conveniences enhance the operator experience and make daily maintenance routines more efficient.

Stora Enso has entered into an agreement to acquire 100% of the Finnish sawmill company Junnikkala Oy. This acquisition aims to secure a cost-efficient wood supply to Stora Enso’s packaging board site in Oulu, Finland, and to support Stora Enso’s wood products business with new production assets. Source: Timberbiz The total enterprise value (EV) for the transaction is up to EUR 137 million, a significant part of it being contingent upon achieving specific production milestones. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the first half of 2025. Junnikkala Oy is a Finnish producer of sawn timber and processed wood products for domestic and export markets. It operates three sawmills in Finland including its new state-of-the-art sawmill, less than 10 kilometres from the Stora Enso Oulu site. The acquired sawmills will create synergies with the integrated board site in Oulu through long-term supply of raw materials such as wood chips, pulpwood and internally sourced biomass going from the sawmills to the Oulu site. “We are preparing for the start-up of our new converted packaging board line in Oulu and this acquisition will establish a solid foundation for our wood procurement. It will also further enhance operational efficiency and optimise the Oulu production site and sawmills as an integrated unit, while also strengthening our wood products offering,” said Hans Sohlström, Stora Enso’s President and CEO. The transaction will strengthen the Group’s wood supply operations and reinforce its position in sawlog and pulpwood sourcing in the Baltic Rim wood market. Stora Enso’s annual wood procurement in Finland will hence increase by approximately 1.7 million m³ and the Group’s total saw-milling capacity by approximately 700,000 m³. The integration of the value chain will reduce costs and improve resource efficiency. Stora Enso harvesting operations in Finland generate a stable supply of sawlogs, pulpwood and energy wood to the Group’s Finnish production sites. Through integrated and efficient sawmilling capacity in Finland, Stora Enso can secure a balanced sawlogs and pulpwood supply. Additionally, the sawmills play an important role in increasing the sawmill by-product supply for pulp and energy use for Stora Enso’s Oulu site. Junnikkala’s sawmill operations will be fully incorporated into Stora Enso’s Wood Products division and the wood procurement activities will be integrated into the Forest division. The acquisition is expected to gradually generate synergies of approximately EUR 15 million annually once the new sawmill in Oulu is fully operational and will have no operational impact on Stora Enso’s current sawmills. Junnikkala’s sales in 2023 were EUR 115 million (EUR 141 million in 2022). The company has approximately 230 employees all of whom will transfer to Stora Enso.  

In a drive to strengthen the link between the design community and the forest and wood products sector, Responsible Wood and the CSAW University of Tasmania recently hosted a field trip in Launceston, Tasmania. Source: Timberbiz Held in collaboration with Sustainable Timber Tasmania (STT), Timberlink, Forico Pty. Limited, Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA), and the Tasmanian Forest Products Association (TFPA), the event offered architects and designers a firsthand look at sustainable forest management and ethical timber supply chains. The field trip showcased Tasmania’s leadership in certified forestry, offering a unique opportunity for participants to observe the timber supply chain from forest management to processing. The event placed a spotlight on Responsible Wood’s certification standards, which ensure responsible forestry practices and sustainable outcomes. The day included visits to Timberlink’s state-of-the-art processing facility and tours of certified forests managed by Forico and STT. These visits illustrated the comprehensive environmental management and technological sophistication that underpin certified forestry. The participants learned about the intricate balance of sustainability, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity conservation embedded in forest management. One highlight was the emphasis on Responsible Wood certification to the Australian Standards (AS/NZS 4708 and AS 4707). These standards ensure timber is sustainably sourced and processed, supporting transparency and best practices from forest to final product. “Seeing the care and expertise that goes into Tasmania’s forest management was eye-opening,” said Sarah Downey, Head of Marketing and Communications, FWPA. “For architects and designers, understanding the source of their materials is key to promoting sustainable construction. The field trip reinforced the importance of certified timber in achieving low-carbon building outcomes.” Responsible Wood’s Sustainability Manager, Matt de Jongh, underscored the importance of engaging design professionals with the forestry sector. “Bringing architects and designers into the heart of our industry is essential for fostering sustainable construction practices. This experience allowed them to see how certified timber is responsibly sourced, giving them a deeper appreciation of its environmental and social benefits,” he said. By stepping out of their studios and into the bush, participants experienced firsthand the origins of the timber they use in their designs. They witnessed how modern forestry integrates biodiversity monitoring, growth modelling, and sustainable harvest techniques, balancing environmental stewardship with economic needs. “The architects left with a stronger connection to the forests and a deeper understanding of the materials they work with,” said Nick Steel, CEO of TFPA. “This connection enhances their ability to advocate for sustainable materials in their projects.” A central theme of the field trip was the ethical sourcing of timber and the role that sustainable supply chains play in reducing the carbon footprint of the built environment. Timberlink, Forico, and STT provided participants with insights into how responsibly sourced wood contributes to climate action by sequestering carbon and reducing reliance on carbon-intensive materials. “We need to ensure that the timber supply chain remains ethical and sustainable, from forest to end product,” Steven Rymer of STT said. “Events like this highlight the commitment our industry has to climate solutions, ensuring that architects and designers can confidently choose certified timber for their projects.” Gary Fleming, Wood Encouragement Officer at the University of Tasmania, emphasised the importance of cross-industry collaboration. “The field trip fostered stronger partnerships between the design and forestry sectors,” he said. “When architects and designers see these sustainable operations firsthand, they’re more confident in advocating for certified timber in their work. The enthusiasm for sustainable design was clear.” As global demand for eco-friendly materials grows, the need for collaboration between forestry and design becomes increasingly important. The Launceston field trip reinforced this, demonstrating how partnerships can drive the adoption of sustainable timber solutions in construction. For Responsible Wood, the field trip marked another step in its mission to engage the design community in sustainable construction. With the continued expansion of certified timber use in architecture, events like this bridge the knowledge gap between sustainable forest management and design. “By bringing architects and designers closer to the origins of the materials they use, we can foster greater collaboration,” said Trevor Innes, Timberlink. “Certified timber plays a critical role in lowering the carbon footprint of the built environment, and this field trip helped demonstrate that.” As the national benchmark for sustainable forestry standards in Australia, Responsible Wood remains committed to promoting responsible timber use, protecting the environment, and supporting rural communities. Through continued collaboration with architects and designers, the organization aims to champion climate-friendly materials and encourage the use of certified timber in future building projects.

A training program where new forestry recruits learn to make crucial thinning decisions through immersive virtual reality simulations of forests could be just around the corner. Source: Timberbiz And the technology to get us there could also be used for training across the forestry processing chain and to refresh experienced workers’ skills. Scion recently developed an interactive, 3D virtual reality training tool to supplement forestry worker training on-site. The prototype has caught the attention of industry players who are exploring how it can be customised to depict their own forests. Trainees who put on the virtual reality headset find themselves in the middle of a computer-generated model reflecting a realistic production forest in New Zealand. The trees are based on physiological-based models of Pinus radiata (Radiata Pine). Scion developed the tool as part of the Virtual Thinning project funded by Forest Growers Research’s Precision Silviculture Program. Scion portfolio leader Grant Evans says the tool combines science, technology and gamification. “We’re using fundamental science – what we know about the physiology of the trees – with VR technology and gamification which is making it more engaging,” he said. “This simulation is based on real-world attributes and we’re able to generate scenarios that really enhance first stage training or decision making.” Using the tool also makes training logistically easier given travel is not needed, and mistakes made in virtual reality aren’t reflected in real forestry blocks. A trainer watching on screen can guide the trainee. “VR has been around a long time in entertainment. Now people have started to see the real applications,” Mr Evans said. Options for the tool are limitless. “Levels” can be created to make choosing which tree to thin easier or harder. Variables can be changed to adjust stocking rate, tree species and age. There are decades of tree bioinformatics available to draw on and more than 70 potential variables. The current focus is on variables that impact log quality and forest value such as sweep, branching and broken tops. Mr Evans says industry leaders engaging with the initial prototype have already identified further applications and extensions such as connecting it to other software like geographic information system operator ArcGIS. Scion forest management scientist Lania Holt says Scion is now working with industry to ensure the tool can reflect their forests. “Companies are looking for realistic scenarios. Ultimately where they want to go is to take the prototype and combine assets with industry in a way that depicts the forest based on their data.” Ms Holt says the work through the Precision Silviculture Program has led to a prototype that’s allowed synthetic data to be created and used. Ms Holt, who has been involved in thinning research for the program, says a tool like this could improve thinning processes and health and safety. It could also allow training in a broader range of scenarios than the conditions in accessible forests on any given day. FGR’s Precision Silviculture Program manager Claire Stewart says the tool fits with the programme’s aims of digitising, mechanising and automating forestry tasks to make them more efficient and safer. She says the tool could help trainees understand complexities without the immense pressure of a forest environment and help them understand the economic value in forests. The technology also paves the way for teleoperation of the future and sets the foundation for how these technologies will need to work. “Thinning is one of the most critical tasks within the life of the forest … It’s where you can add or subtract a lot of value,” Ms Stewart said. “There are many other tasks in the forest beyond thinning that would benefit from this training – pruning, establishment tasks, surveillance and monitoring, harvesting and processing. “We are fully committed to exploring new interactive and digital ways of training and attracting the workforce.” Scion is working to customise the tool for forestry company Rayonier-Matariki Forests, who are responsible for more than 110,000 hectares of forest nationwide. “I’m hugely impressed,” says Rayonier-Matariki Forests Quality Manager Fraser Field, who is part of the development testing team. “I immediately fell into training mode when I tested the tool.” Last year Rayonier built its own VR process for entry-level workers, but Mr Field says this is “a huge step forward.” “We will be able to build a virtual forest with sizes, features, and characteristics specific to our own conditions. We will modify and improve our training practices now to incorporate Scion’s VR, including training for NZQA unit standards. I have lots of ideas now about how to extend the use of this tool in training.” Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28Aub5eADhI  

Results of the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF’s) testing trial on timber species and harvest origins has clearly demonstrated the need for the Albanese Government’s tougher illegal logging laws with some alarming results from the study, according to Australian Forest Products Association CEO Diana Hallam. Source: Timberbiz The recently completed DAFF trial tested 146 timber products and 39 distinct species using different scientific methods including DNA, stable isotope, trace element, wood fibre and wood anatomy analysis. A quarter of the tested products were found to be inconsistent with declared species, origin, or both. Illegal logging is a global problem and is the most profitable transborder environmental crime, with wide-reaching and devastating impacts on climate, nature and people. “We welcome DAFF’s trial but unfortunately the results show there’s plenty of work to do on supply chain custody and ensuring Australia is free of illegally logged timber and fibre products,” Ms Hallam said. “These results are something we have suspected and feared. “Earlier this year, AFPA strongly supported updated Commonwealth legislation aimed at cracking down on illegal imports and these results show just how important a stronger legislative and regulatory framework is to combat this issue. We know many importers are doing the right thing, but those that aren’t, are undermining Australia’s biosecurity and deceiving consumers. “For example, we’ve been made aware of some private product testing which showed the breakup of some laminated veneer lumber (LVL) product, 80 per cent originating in China and 20 per cent from Russia, with the Russia component not declared,” she said “Importers and certifiers need to be on notice, so we are pleased the Albanese Government and DAFF is taking the issue of illegal timber very seriously. Obviously, the best way to avoid illegal timber and fibre is to buy Australian grown and manufactured which also supports our economies and communities, but we must work to a future where all imported product is above board.” Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Matt Lowe said last week that globally it has been estimated that about 15-30 per cent of all wood traded is a product of illegal logging and illicit wood. “Use of timber testing technologies will strengthen Australia’s ongoing efforts to address this problem by enhancing existing compliance and due diligence efforts under our illegal logging prohibition laws,” Mr Lowe said. “They offer a means of verifying if claims made about the species and harvest origin of timber are accurate. “The trial tested 146 products and 39 distinct species. A range of scientific methods were used including DNA, stable isotope, trace element, wood fibre and wood anatomy analyses. “The results showed approximately 25% of products tested had an inconsistency with declared species, origin, or both. “While not representative of the entire Australian market, the findings highlight that there is room for improvement for our regulated community to mitigate the risk of illegal logging timber entering our market. “The department will continue to review the recommendations of the trial and work across the Australian Government and with industry stakeholders to inform future implementation of timber testing technologies under reformed legislation. “This trial provides great insight into the benefits of introducing timber testing technologies to help mitigate the risk of illegally logged timber entering Australia’s market and better support the forestry sector. “The Australian Government is committed to playing its part and working with industry stakeholders and the international community to address illegal logging. That is why we passed the Illegal Logging Prohibition Amendment Bill in 2024.” For more information visit: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/agriculture-land/forestry/policies/illegal-logging

Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water is developing voluntary greenhouse gas accounting standards for agriculture, fisheries, and forestry sectors as farmers face higher pressure from supply chains and the finance sector to provide accurate GHG emissions data. Source: S&P Global The government’s obligatory climate-related financial disclosures, traceability requirement for market access, as well as the employment of science-based emissions reduction targets are some of the factors driving this demand, the department said in its release. These reporting standards aim to enhance the accuracy and consistency of accounting methods and tools, fine tune GHG accounting at the farm level for greater market access and further mitigation action support, and finally reduce the reporting burden on farmers and landowners by giving them reliable tools to understand their emissions. Further, the government has established a Voluntary Greenhouse Gas Estimation and Reporting Standards Reference Group that is intended to guide and aid in the development of standards for the aforementioned sectors, as well the as eventual incorporation of these standards into existing GHG calculators and accounting tools. The Reference Group encompasses stakeholders from the industry, supply chains, agricultural service providers, First Nations, the finance sector, research organizations, and the government. Platts, part of S&P Global Commodity Insights, previously reported that the Australian Senate proposed a legislation for medium and large-sized companies to measure and disclose their greenhouse gas emissions by type, referred to as scopes. This mandatory climate reporting is expected to come into force on 1 January 2025, starting with the largest emitters, companies, and financial institutions.

New Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences forest data released this week shows Australia’s forestry sector is well positioned to help address the national housing and cost of living crises, according to Australian Forest Products Association CEO Diana Hallam. Source: Timberbiz The ABARES Australia’s State of the Forests Report: Synthesis 2023 (SOFR Synthesis 2023) released shows: Australia’s total forested area increased in the five years to 2021 by nearly three times the size of the ACT (750,000 hectares) with the total around 134 million hectares (more than 1.5 times the size of NSW) Carbon stocks in forests increased to over 19 million tonnes from 2016 to 2021, and there was a 5 per cent increase in the total carbon present in harvested wood products to around 167 million tonnes In 2022-23 the value of logs harvested from commercial plantations and native forests was $2.4 billion including $1.3 billion from softwood plantations Native forestry operations continue to sustainably harvest and regenerate just 0.06 per cent of Australia total native forest area annually – the equivalent of 6 out of 10,000 trees Forestry was identified as the least prevalent of 11 specified categories listed as threats for forest-dwelling flora and fauna. Land use change, unsuitable fire regimes and competition from introduced species were the most common threats. “I congratulate ABARES on the release of SOFR Synthesis 2023 and the huge amount of detailed work in the report,” Ms Hallam said. “I’m proud to say AFPA helped advocate for additional Commonwealth funding to allow for more regular forest data updates like SOFR. “Importantly the data demonstrates Australia’s forested area is increasing while countering disinformation that wrongly blames forestry for species loss. The data shows the drop in production in softwood timber highlighting the sector spare capacity available to support the Government’s housing targets. The data shows the importance of the sector to the national economy and how forestry and forest products are well placed to help Australia solve the national housing and cost of living crises,” she said. “Australia’s forest industries are an essential part of our country’s future providing essential housing, climate, consumer, employment, other economic and social benefits at home and internationally. Access to data that tracks our important forest resources is important for planning and accurate industry analysis. I congratulate ABARES and the Federal Government on the SOFR report.” You can download the report here.

A world first engineered wood product made exclusively from locally grown bluegum (Eucalyptus Globulus) timber has been manufactured in Warrnambool, providing a pathway to address Australia’s growing structural timber market demand. Source: Timberbiz The Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub and Forest and Wood Products Australia, working in partnership with WTIBeam (formerly known as Warrnambool Timber Industries), have unveiled the first of its kind GL18 timber product which can be utilised in everything from flooring to roof framing in both residential and commercial construction. It is envisaged that the laminated glulam product, produced from glued and finger jointed laminates, will help fill the void from the state’s cessation of native forest harvesting while reducing the state’s reliance on imports from volatile offshore markets. Victoria is Australia’s biggest importer of structural timber sourcing more than 40% of its market base, with demand anticipated to quadruple by 2050 due to population growth and urbanisation. The Splinters to Structures project, funded by the Federal Government, focused on creating new domestic value from the plantation hardwood trees that are traditionally exported to Asian markets including China and Japan. Developed after two years of extensive research trials, the GL18 product is capable of being utilised in everything from flooring to rafters in both residential and commercial builds. Victorian Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins and Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora yesterday met with the research group to understand how the product could fit into conventional and modular constructions to fill the state’s housing market demand. Minister Hutchins said this is an exciting product with wide potential. “This new world first wood product has the potential to address timber demand and help our booming construction industry who are working around the clock to build more homes across Victoria,” Minister Hutchins said. Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub CEO Tony Wright said the research group planned to use the findings to undertake commercial trials, building a pathway to commercialisation. “These commercial trials will help us understand how we best replace native hardwood with plantation hardwoods with a product that already has a broad domestic base. Ultimately, its envisaged that this bluegum GL18 product could be utilised in both domestic and commercial builds and is perfect for use in a prefabricated building, acting as a replacement for concrete or steel,” Mr Wright said. “The outcome for the sector is reduced reliance on exports, the creation of new local jobs, a cost-effective building material with a positive carbon outcome that can fix a shortfall in the domestic market” WTIBeam owner Edwina Vulcz, whose father Tim Goodall is a key figure in glulam product development and founder of the business, said their team had been “pleasantly surprised” by the trial outcome. “Historically trials had only looked at structural framing which failed in a commercial setting because of challenges in sawing. This is a completely different scenario. Bluegum (Eucalyptus Globulus) lends itself to GLT (glue laminated timber) production because of its suitability in a more hands on manufacturing application,” she said. “This product has the potential to save thousands of dollars in the construction of a home because you have a smaller beam that can be utilised further because of its strength, reducing the need for other materials.” GTFIH deputy chair and board director of Australian Bluegum Plantations (ABP) Laurie Hein said the low carbon product was paving the way for a more diversified regional market base, addressing the imbalance between supply and demand. “The Hub has always been focused on optimising the use of every piece of fibre grown in our region and we see this latest development as an important milestone,” Mr Hein said. “Whilst we work towards strengthening the intelligence from our existing trials the next major step is to undertake a feasibility study. This will allow us to understand how to take this product to scale through the construction of a manufacturing hub, developing multi-generational jobs and capturing as much economic value in the supply chain as possible.” The Splinters to Structures project is supported by Green Triangle-based hardwood plantation companies including Australian Bluegum Plantations, Midway Limited, New Forests (SFM Management and PF Olsen).

Around 300 scientists, researchers, forestry professionals and foresters have gathered for Forestry Australia’s National Symposium being held in Ballarat this week. The key theme for the Symposium is healthy and resilient forests for our future. Source: Timberbiz Acting Forestry Australia President Dr Bill Jackson said healthy forests can deliver a range of environmental, social, cultural, and economic benefits and are much more likely to withstand future shocks and stresses, such as those generated by bushfires, invasive species and climate change. Kirsha Kaechele, co-owner of MONA and sponsor of the Forest Economics Congress spoke on the art of radical diplomacy, saying “negotiators need get out of those ugly board rooms”. Ms Kaechele said we can’t move forward without caring for people – Australia can have the best forest practice in the world by working together; for all sides to be brave enough to welcome broad conversation; and invite peer-review to achieve truly sustainable practice. Professor Lori Daniels from the Forest Services Centre in Canada spoke about the need for transformative change based on active management that combines the depth of Indigenous knowledge with western ecological science. “In Canada, forest managers are considering a new future of diversified, proactive, collaborative and evidence-based management for forest resilience,” Professor Daniels said. Secretary of Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Adam Fennessy identified the key role forestry can play in solving many of societies key challenges. He announced that the Federal Government is supporting this potential through investing in national forest policy, capacity and capability, climate change and research and development. Forestry Australia is proud to facilitate conversation and explore strategies that address these issues and create a bright and innovative future for forests in Australia. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is a major sponsor of the symposium. “We are passionate about natural resource management and support for sustainable forestry industries throughout Australia,” Secretary Adam Fennessy said. “The department’s portfolio industries, including the forest sector, are on the frontline of climate change. “Forestry, and sustainable forest management more broadly, are essential parts of the nation’s emissions reduction efforts along with supporting regional jobs in sustainable forestry industries. “I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to highlight DAFF’s work in delivering the government’s forestry agenda, and our role in supporting industry capability, research and innovation. “The symposium will provide a forum for wide-ranging discussions about the environmental, social, economic and cultural benefits of healthy forests and the importance of active management to ensure that those values can continue being delivered. “This includes presentations from several traditional owners, noting how their perspectives on caring for country can inform forest management. “The symposium will also highlight innovative management to mitigate threats to forest health and resilience, and effective forest recovery and restoration following major disturbances. “There are critical links between forests, regional development, human wellbeing, connection and creativity, which demonstrate the importance of this symposium, and the work undertaken to implement science and best practice into forest management in Australia.”  

Finland is the most forested country in Europe, and more than one in 10 Finns own a forest. In other words, forestry is a very popular investment among their assets. Source: Timberbiz Why do the Finns invest in forestry – three forest owners have provided their take and it includes economic security, generational continuity and nature values. What kinds of investments are forests? The general answer was: stable. The price of forest land has risen steadily over the decades, and forests typically yield an interest income of about 3–5%, says Kati Kontinen, lecturer in forestry and member of the supervisory board of Metsäliitto Cooperative. “Forest estates are in high demand. No more land is produced, which ensures that the value of the forest is maintained,” says Ms Kontinen. Forest owner Reija Asikainen considers forests an easy investment for a person interested in spending time in nature. For Asikainen, who works as an environmental consultant, it has been more natural to invest in forests than in a buy-to-let apartment, for example. “Timely clearing, early cleaning and thinning improve the growing stock and thus the value of the investment,” says Asikainen. “These forests aren’t managed for money” So how do people join the diverse group of forest owners? As a rule, by inheriting family-owned forest. “Discussions of what to do with a family’s forest assets should be started with the children or other heirs well in advance. There may not be much interest in a forest estate inherited without warning, but a timely discussion may arouse interest in a completely different way,” Ms Kontinen said. Thinking in advance also helps with tax planning. There are many ways to inherit: a sale, gift, and gift-like transaction all have different tax consequences. For Ms Kontinen, a planned transfer between generations meant that she and her two sisters decided to set up a real estate partnership, which now runs the estate. She had already bought her first forest estate when she was 18. “Someone else might have bought a car, but I had a notion that investing in forests was safe.” Eemeli Hasanen, 22, also has experience of planned generational transfer: he became the owner of his family’s forest estate four years ago. In his day job, he drives a tip truck, and he spends his weekends and holidays working in the forest. According to Mr Hasanen, running a family farm and managing the forests is a vocation. When he was at school, he spent his evenings and weekends in the forest helping his grandfather. “I already knew as a little boy, when I sat on Grandpa’s tractor, that this was where I came from, and this was where I’d stay,” Mr Hasanen said. “These forests aren’t managed for money but to provide well-managed forests for future generations.” Forests are associated with so many memories and emotional ties. Some of them date back to childhood, and others, through stories, even to the childhood of grandparents. Kati Kontinen, Reija Asikainen and Eemeli Hasanen all visit the forest not only for work but also for pleasure. The forest is a gym, a break room and a berry cellar. “Yes, I do go to the forest every day. Sometimes I go horseback riding, sometimes I do a bit of clearing,” Ms Kontinen explains. Commercial and recreational uses of forests are not mutually exclusive. Raspberries often grow on seedling stands, and as the forest grows, blueberries and lingonberries appear. Older, moss-covered spruce forests are great for camping and picking mushrooms. Reija Asikainen says that the desire to take care of forest regeneration and biodiversity is more important than profit. For example, this is done by increasing the number of deciduous tree and retention trees. Retention trees are trees that are allowed to grow and eventually decay in the forest, thus providing habitats for many species. Approximately 25,000 species live in Finnish forests, and a fifth of them depend on decaying wood. Wood trade statistics alone cannot measure the value of a commercial forest. “We should stop and think about all the things that are made of wood and the products that can be replaced with wood – plastics and fossil fuels. This is also an important issue for many forest owners,” Ms Kontinen says.

Paper Excellence Group has announced the operational integration of the recently acquired Domtar Corporation and Resolute Forest Products with the legacy Paper Excellence business, forming a leading, unified forest products company in North America. Source: Timberbiz According to the company this integration represents a strategic alignment of the companies’ strengths, resources and expertise, creating a stronger organization poised for future growth and innovation, while maintaining the highest levels of environmental stewardship. Together, the companies will now be doing business as Domtar. Domtar’s new brand identity symbolizes the combined legacy, shared values and forward-looking vision of the three organizations. The new logo reflects the spirit of collaboration, sustainability and commitment to excellence that will define Domtar’s future. The inclusion of a seedling in the logo represents the company’s commitment to nurturing potential and fostering growth, symbolizing the start of something new and the continuous journey toward flourishing success. It also signifies an important evolution, capturing the essence of the gradual development of our legacy companies and the natural progression from a small, humble beginning to a thriving, mature global organization. “Today marks a new and important chapter in Domtar’s journey, representing the bright future ahead of us,” said John D Williams, non-executive chairman of the Management Board of Domtar (and its sister organizations). “As a fully integrated company, we are better positioned to deliver for our customers, strengthen relationships with our key stakeholders and drive innovation across our industry. As a result of the integration, we now have a company that boasts the best of our three legacy companies and is poised to pursue and achieve future growth and success. Our new brand is a reflection of our shared mission to lead with purpose and impact.” Domtar will continue to serve pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products markets, leveraging its expanded capabilities to offer enhanced products and services to clients worldwide. Products will be marketed under their legacy names, and commercial information will be updated on the Domtar website in the coming weeks; until then, information will be available on the legacy platforms. Domtar will maintain its corporate offices in Fort Mill, South Carolina, Richmond, British Columbia, and Montreal, Quebec. There will be no changes to the company’s physical location or production footprint as a result of this announcement. The company’s commitment to sustainability and community investment will continue to be a core focus as it moves forward under the new brand.

SCA has become a partner in SE-technology and in a pilot plant developed and operated by SweTree Technologies. With SE-technology, more seedlings can be quickly and efficiently produced from the best seed material from forest breeding. Source: Timberbiz SweTree Technologies is running a pilot project to develop automated seedling production via Somatic Embryogenesis (SE) together with the forest companies Stora Enso, Sveaskog, Södra and Holmen. SCA has now also entered the project and become a partner in the SE-technology and in the pilot plant developed and operated by SweTree Technologies. So far, development has focused on spruce seedlings, but with SCA’s involvement, SweTree has also started the development of SE-technology for pine. This is done jointly with all participating companies, in parallel with the development that is underway for spruce. “We are very pleased to have SCA on board with the SE-project. SweTree is now bringing together the five major Swedish forest industry companies in the development of this important and revolutionary technology. This means that we are well equipped to take our SE-technology all the way to a commercial facility for production of SE seedlings on an industrial scale,” says Christofer Rhén, CEO of SweTree Technologies. “We have collaborated with SweTree for a long time and now it was time to take the next step. This is an exciting development project with great potential, and which is at the forefront of research in terms of the production of the best forest seedlings. With an increased degree of breeding, we can produce seedlings that grow even better and thus capture more carbon dioxide. We also get access to more renewable raw materials to replace fossil products with. In this way, our forests can contribute with even greater climate benefit,” says Thomas Vestman, Head of SCA’s seedling business NorrPlant. SweTree Technologies has been working for several years to develop the automated SE-technology. SE is a vegetative propagation method, with which seedlings based on the best seed material from forest breeding can be quickly and efficiently produced in large quantities. This technological leap enables commercial seedlings with higher growth and resistance to diseases and pests, which is positive for both the forest economy and the environment.

Businesses, unions and health and safety experts are making a united call to the New Zealand Government about the changes they believe will improve the health and safety system and save lives. Source: Timberbiz Business New Zealand, the Council of Trade Unions, the Business Leaders’ Health and Safety Forum, the Health and Safety Association of New Zealand and the NZ Institute of Safety Management (NZISM) have issued an open letter on Labour Day to Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden as part of her review of the health and safety regime. The letter identifies three key areas to improve New Zealand’s health and safety record: Better system leadership and coordination Improving and investing in WorkSafe NZ Better regulations and guidance. The group urges the Minister to refrain from substantial overhaul of the 9-year-old Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. The Act is based on similar legislation to Australia and the United Kingdom, where workplace fatalities and injuries are much lower than New Zealand. The letter shows an unprecedented degree of consensus between representatives of workers, large and small businesses, and experts across the health and safety landscape. Businesses, unions and health and safety experts are making a united call to the Government about the changes they believe will improve the health and safety system and save lives. “We are making this call on Labour Day because it’s an important day to recognise the value of workers to our economy and the desire of all of us that they return home safe and well every working day. Our regime is just not working the way it should, and we welcome the chance the current review has provided to get it right once and for all,” CTU President Richard Wagstaff said. The Business Leaders’ Health and Safety Forum conservatively estimates the cost of workplace illness and injury in New Zealand at NZ$4.9 billion per year. More than 70 people a year on average die in workplace accidents, double that of Australia and another 900 die from diseases caused by work. Making the right, targeted investments in health and safety will pay dividends to businesses, communities, and the country. Workers need to return home healthy and well, and businesses need to have access to guidance and support to improve health and safety in their workplaces. “We can and should do better, even lifting our performance to that of Australia’s would save almost NZ$1.4 billion a year, saving lives and injury, and preventing families and communities from being shattered,” said Business Leaders’ Health and Safety Forum Chief Executive, Francois Barton. Submissions on the review close on 31 October. The open letter is supported by key leaders and experts across the health and safety system, including the Employers and Manufacturers Association, GM Safety Forum, Te Rōpū Marutau o Aotearoa (the Māori Health and Safety Association), Women in Safety and Health Excellence New Zealand, the New Zealand Society for Safety Engineering, the Faculty of Asbestos Management of Australia and New Zealand, the New Zealand Occupational Health Nurses Association, the Occupational Health Physiotherapy Group, New Zealand Occupational Hygiene Society, Occupational Therapy New Zealand Whakaora Ngangahau Aotearoa, ShopCare Charitable Trust, the Forestry Industry Safety Council, MinEx (the Health and Safety Council for the extractive sector), MarineSAFE, StayLive, and the WorkSafe Chair of Workplace Health and Safety at Victoria University.

Mountain Blue, a company involved with blueberry genetics, has a plastic free packaging trial in place with Opal, on its Eureka brand with supermarket retailer Coles Group. Source: Timberbiz As part of Mountain Blue’s commitment to sustainable practices, this initiative has introduced kerbside recyclable and FSC-certified cardboard punnets for blueberries across 34 Coles stores located in Northern New South Wales over a two-month period. The punnets, which are an alternative to plastic containers, feature a unique transparent film produced from wood pulp, allowing customers to easily view the blueberries. By using FSC certified materials, the packaging reinforces a commitment to sustainability, ensuring the materials come from responsibly managed forests. The trial marks a step in packaging innovation within the fresh produce industry. The kerbside recyclable punnets, developed in collaboration with Opal, aim to provide a plastic free alternative without compromising on the quality and freshness of Mountain Blue Blueberries. The punnets are made from recycled paper manufactured by Opal in Australia and feature the robustness needed to protect fresh produce through supply chains and freight. “We’re excited to trial kerbside recyclable cardboard punnets with Opal. This innovation offers consumers sustainable packaging choices in Coles supermarkets,” said Andrew Bell, Managing Director, Mountain Blue. Chris Daly, Executive General Manager, Opal Packaging, said Opal is investing in research and development to test and commercialise products made from recycled and recyclable paper and cardboard. “By partnering with Mountain Blue, we were able to understand their packaging needs and work together with our automation and machinery team, to deliver a punnet solution that is innovative, functional and sustainable,” said Mr Daly. Brooke Donnelly, Coles General Manager of Sustainability, said the supermarket is continuously looking for ways to innovate and redesign its packaging, and this trial provides customers with a packaging alternative for a product they love to eat. “Fresh produce packaging is ripe for innovation, and we’re excited to provide our customers with a plastic free alternative for much-loved and in season blueberries,” said Ms Donnelly. “This trial is about ensuring the new cardboard punnets keep blueberries as fresh and tasty as the conventional plastic packaging, and to see how our customers respond to the change.” Consumers across Northern NSW can find Eureka punnets in the new recyclable packaging throughout October 2024. Mountain Blue hopes this trial will pave the way for broader adoption of sustainable packaging.

The Green Triangle’s 334,000 hectares forest plantations will be better protected from bushfires with a new 144kL water tank and dual diesel/electric water pump being installed at Mount Gambier Regional Airport. Source: Timberbiz Co-funded by more than $415,000 from the Albanese Government’s flagship Disaster Ready Fund and District Council of Grant, the new aerial firefighting assets will improve the ability of fire authorities to slow the progress of bushfires and better protect communities spanning from Kingston SE to Warrnambool, Victoria. Significant preparatory work to replace the existing 1960s built aerial waterbombing infrastructure has been completed with the installation of the new tank and pump expected to be completed in the first half of 2025. “The Green Triangle Region is an important part of Australia’s Forestry and Forest Products industry, with this investment core to protecting the pine and blue gum plantations across South Australia’s Limestone Coast and Western Districts of Victoria,” Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon Jenny McAllister said. “Modernising and increasing water access for aerial firefighting means the region is better equipped to combat bushfires, not only protecting the forestry plantations but also protecting the lives and livelihoods of thousands of Forestry workers across the Region.” South Australian Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon Dan Cregan said that this upgraded asset will be a critical resource to assist firefighting efforts in the South East, protecting communities and our timber resources. “The Green Triangle is one of the state’s most productive sectors and the support provided through the Disaster Ready Fund will ensure improved responses to those living and working in the region,” he said.

A cross-section of the nation’s leading minds have converged in Ballarat, to discuss the goal of creating a healthy and resilient future for Australia’s forests and share knowledge and ideas to ensure forests can provide a wide range of benefits for generations to come. Source: Timberbiz Approximately 300 scientists, researchers, forestry professionals and foresters will gather at Forestry Australia’s National Symposium, to be held at the Mercure Hotel and Convention Centre in Ballarat from 29-31 October. Under the theme – Healthy and Resilient Forests for our future, the symposium covers a wide range of topics, including the future of forestry in Australia with the co-owner of Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New – MONA, Kirsha Kaechele. Other key speakers include Racheal Cavanagh, who will talk the Aboriginal perspective of ‘Caring for Country’, while Dr Jacki Shirmer will talk about her study looking the Regional Wellbeing Survey. With artificial intelligence an emerging area of interest, Mike Lawson will talk about AI camera technology for bushfire detection. Acting Forestry Australia President Dr Bill Jackson said healthy forests can deliver a range of environmental, social, cultural, and economic benefits and are much more likely to withstand future shocks and stresses, such as those generated by bushfires, invasive species and those anticipated with climate change. The symposium aimed to facilitate conversation and explore strategies that address these issues and create a bright and innovative future for forests in Australia. “We have a wide range of sessions and topics to re-imagine the future of forest management, for all its values so our forests can continue to benefit Australia and Australians for generations to come,” Dr Jackson said.

Victoria’s emergency services are holding pre-summer season briefings across the state in preparation for the 2024/25 fire season. Source: Timberbiz A recent briefing in Portland was attended by more than 70 representatives from Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic), the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV), the State Emergency Service (SES), Victoria Police, Department of Health, local councils and supporting agencies. In addition to a detailed presentation on the bushfire conditions expected in the region this summer, agencies provided an overview of their organisation’s plans for the fire season ahead. AFAC – the national council for fire and emergency services – has forecast an above average fire season for the Far South West District in its Spring Seasonal Bushfire Outlook. Forest Fire Management Victoria Far South West District Manager Sheree Mirtschin said the forecast for an above average fire season for the Far South West highlighted the importance of taking a year-round approach to preparing for summer bushfires. “Throughout the year, we’ve conducted planned burns across the district when conditions permit, while also completing maintenance on strategic fire breaks and access tracks; as well as mulching, mowing, slashing and spraying as part of our preparations.” “Now is also the time for the community to make sure they are ready for summer by preparing their properties and having up to date fire plans in place.” Authorities have been busy preparing for these conditions, with actions happening across the state to reduce risk and improve community safety. FFMVic prepares for bushfires all year through a range of actions, including planned burning, mechanical works, hazardous tree management, mulching and maintaining strategic fuel breaks. The workforce will be bolstered by up to 550 seasonal firefighters joining the workforce to help deliver fire and land management activities and respond to bushfires and other emergencies. FFMVic’s firefighting equipment includes more than 500 ultralight tankers and close to 100 heavy tankers, as well as more than 300 additional plant and trucks including dozers, tractors, graders, loaders, forklifts and excavators. The ground fleet is supported by an aerial fleet of 54 aircraft contracted for the 2024-25 summer season. The fleet includes a mix of firebombing aircraft, air supervision and aerial information gathering aircraft. Authorities are reminding the community that bushfire safety is a shared responsibility.

  Testing is underway in Victoria to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be used to detect bushfires early to keep communities safe, thanks to a $1.5 million investment from the Federal and Victorian Governments. Source: Timberbiz Funded by the Federal Government’s flagship Disaster Ready Fund, the trial is being undertaken by Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic), Victoria’s lead agency for managing bushfire risk on public land. It will assess the reliability and timeliness of smoke-detecting AI software using 24/7 ground cameras which have been mounted on specific fire lookouts across the state and have been configured to only detect smoke. The software and cameras will support the work of FFMVic’s specially trained Fire Lookout Observers, who work across 64 fire lookouts – especially at times when lookouts aren’t staffed after hours or due to health and safety concerns such as operating or climbing in the dark and extreme weather conditions. “New technology such as artificial intelligence has the potential to transform how we prepare and respond to disasters,” Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator the Hon Jenny McAllister said. “The early bushfire technology deployed in this trial could help authorities detect and suppress bushfires before they impact communities. “Our government is working with all levels of government to help build long term resilience and reduce the impacts of severe weather events when they hit. Early detection of bushfires is critical as it provides the best opportunity to suppress bushfires before they impact communities, the environment and important assets like drinking water and energy infrastructure. “By investing in cutting-edge technology like AI, we’re taking an important step forward in how we manage bushfire risk across Victoria now and into the future,” Victorian Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said. “This AI trial gives us the opportunity to explore how advancements in science and technology can be utilised to stay ahead of the threat of bushfires – ensuring we’re prepared with the best tools available to detect risk faster while keeping our communities and environment safer.” Phase 1 of the trial took place during the 2023-24 fire season with cameras installed on fire lookouts at Mt Gordon, Mt Wombat, Peters Hill, and on a mobile trailer stationed in Mt Vandyke. Phase 2 of the trial will run through the 2024-2025 fire season and cameras are proposed to be installed on fire lookouts at Big Hill in Stawell, Mt Mittamatite and Mt Ida with further expansion planned for additional sites. Depending on results, FFMVic may extend the trials to fire lookouts on third-party infrastructure and also develop a remote detection strategy to plan future investment in the technology. The DRF is the Australian Government’s flagship resilience and risk reduction initiative which will deliver projects that support Australians to manage the physical and social impacts of disasters caused by climate change and other natural hazards. The Australian Government is providing up to one billion dollars through the DRF. The funding runs over five years from 1 July 2023. The DRF aims to help communities protect themselves against the impacts of disasters. For more information, including a full list of projects, visit the National Emergency Management Agency’s website at www.nema.gov.au/programs/disaster-ready-fund  

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) has today released Australia’s State of the Forests Report: Synthesis 2023. Source: Timberbiz ABARES Executive Director, Dr Jared Greenville, said the five-yearly report covered all areas of Australia’s forests – public and private forests, forests managed for production and forests managed for conservation and the full range of social, economic and environmental values. “Gaining a better understanding of our forests is a crucial part of ensuring they are managed sustainably,” Dr Greenville said. “That’s why this report is so important—it provides the information that Australia’s policymakers and planners need if they are to plan continued growth into the future. “In 2021 Australia’s forest area was 134 million hectares and has increased by 750 thousand hectares over the previous 5 years. “Most of Australia’s forests are privately managed with 90.8 million hectares, or 68% of Australia’s forests, on leasehold or privately owned tenures. “The Indigenous forest estate is 80 million hectares, representing 60% of Australia’s total forest area. This is an increase of 10 million hectares since 2018. “In 2022-23, the value of logs harvested from native forests and commercial plantations was $2.4 billion, and the sector employed 51,123 workers in 2021, only slightly down compared to 2016. “Over the period 2016-17 to 2020-21 the average annual area of harvest from multiple-use native forest was 77 thousand hectares or about 0.06% of Australia’s total area of native forest. “A total of 49 million hectares (37%) of Australia’s native forest is on land protected for biodiversity conservation, or where biodiversity conservation is a specified management intent. “The most common threats to nationally listed forest-dwelling fauna and flora include land-use change and/or forest loss; unsuitable fire regimes; predation and competition by introduced fauna and flora; and small or localised populations. Forestry operations were the least prevalent of the 11 specified threat categories for listed forest-dwelling fauna and flora. “Carbon stocks in Australia’s forests increased slightly to 19,417 million tonnes, during the period 2016 to 2021. In addition, in 2021, 167 million tonnes of carbon was present in harvested wood products, a 5% increase since 2016.” SOFR Synthesis 2023 is the 6th in the series of five-yearly national reports on Australia’s forests and presents a new approach for national reporting. For more information https://www.agriculture.gov.au/abares/forestsaustralia/sofr