Australian timber industry news

Resolute and Greenpeace have announced that they have resolved two long running disputes. The Greenpeace parties which were Greenpeace, Greenpeace Fund and Greenpeace International confirmed that they had no knowledge of illegal operations in off-limit areas by Resolute. Source: Timberbiz All parties are pleased that they have turned the page on these long-running litigations. The Greenpeace parties stated that their criticism was always directed at Resolute’s legal operations in certain forests that Greenpeace believes require more protection. Resolute said that it is committed to the sustainability of the boreal forest and prosperity of its communities. Resolute and Greenpeace agree everyone should be part of this discussion and to raise concerns with each other in an attempt to resolve factual disagreements.  

Now that the rebuilding of the entire roof structure of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral in solid oak has been completed, the FCBA Institute of Technology, along with PEFC France, has officially awarded PEFC project certification to public establishment Rebâtir Notre-Dame de Paris, the contracting authority for the restoration project. Source: Timberbiz This certification confirms the sustainable origin of the solid oak wood materials used, and the responsible nature of the work carried out by the contracting authority, chief architects of historic monuments and project managers. The medieval frames of the nave and choir, built in the 13th century, and those of the Viollet-le-Duc spire and both arms of the transept, dating from the 19th century, were destroyed in the fire on April 15, 2019. They were restored identically, using the same techniques and materials as the original, solid oak. By rebuilding Notre-Dame de Paris’ roof structure in wood, part of which the great roof is also known as “the forest”, the shared history of the cathedral and French forests will continue to be written for centuries to come. In a show of solidarity, the entire French forestry and timber industry mobilized to supply the wood needed to meet the specifications of this exceptional project. Actors from state-owned forests, community forests, forestry cooperatives, forestry experts, private owners and processing companies were all involved in ensuring that each stage of the reconstruction of the frameworks was carried out using a sustainable forest management approach, maintaining the balance between the economic, social and environmental dimensions of the forest. This systemic approach enables the renewal of the forests from which the timber was sourced, thereby maintaining their multifunctionality, while preserving diversity, vitality, productivity, and regeneration capacity. Project certification, developed by PEFC, certifies that at least 70% of the total volume of wood used is PEFC-certified, ensuring that PEFC’s forest certification requirements, which define and control a set of forest management rules applicable to all forest stakeholders (forest owners, forest managers, forest operators, forestry contractors), have been implemented. Additionally, the implementation of PEFC chain of custody in project certification certifies that all parties involved in a construction or renovation project, whether certified companies or subcontractors, have applied the control principles defined by PEFC, making it possible to track the flow of certified wood at every stage of the supply chain. Today, thanks to the 35 PEFC-certified sawmills involved in the project, the majority of which are PEFC-certified, 175 PEFC-certified forests, and the use of over 80% PEFC-certified logs, the entire framework of Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral benefits from PEFC project certification. The implementation of PEFC’s rules for sustainable forest management on the one hand, and chain of custody on the other, means that PEFC certification can now be awarded for the entire Notre-Dame de Paris timber reconstruction project, a testament to stakeholder commitment to sustainable forest management and an environmentally, socially and economically responsible timber construction site. “I would like to thank PEFC France and the FCBA Institute of Technology for this certification. It recognizes the remarkable commitment and strong support of all the players in the forestry and timber industry: the ONF, France Bois Forêt and its members, the mayors of forest communities, private owners and their representatives, and sawmillers all over France, who donated trees and processed the timber. I extend my warmest thanks to them, as well as to the hewers, squarers and carpenters who have placed their expertise at the service of the cathedral’s rebirth, as part of an exemplary restoration project”, commented Philippe Jost, President of Rebâtir Notre-Dame de Paris. Christine de Neuville, President of PEFC France, added “awarding this certification today recognizes the commitment of not only the client, Rebâtir Notre-Dame de Paris, but also of the entire forestry and timber industry to the long-term survival of the French forest. This unprecedented industry mobilization to restore a symbol of French heritage is a perfect illustration of the vision and determination that PEFC has been pursuing for 25 years now: to bring together and offer all forestry stakeholders solutions to meet the common challenges that lie ahead: the changing environmental, economic and societal challenges facing forests in France in the face of global warming, and thus preserve the French forest”.

Japanese forestry and lumber industry groups are setting their sights on an initiative to establish an online market for trading trees before they are cut down. Source: The Japan Times With human-made forests in Japan, which constitute about 40% of the nation’s forested areas, entering full-scale harvest seasons, the process of “reforestation,” or planting new saplings after tree felling, has faced obstacles, primarily stemming from the considerable burdens placed on forest owners. The objective of the proposed market is to establish prices that account for reforestation expenses, thereby giving individuals greater incentive to be involved in forestry management and promoting the utilization of domestic lumber. “This tree is a century old,” Kenichi Sato, 69, of Hitachiota, Ibaraki Prefecture, said, looking up at a towering cedar, while giving a media tour of his 1.56-square-kilometer forest. Sato inherited the family’s forestry business following his father’s death. “There were times when I couldn’t afford to harvest trees extensively while I was preoccupied with earning (immediate) income,” he recalled. “Tree growth requires long-term patience. With each generation, there’s a growing indifference toward the forestry business, leading many to exit the industry.” The persistent decline in domestic log prices is attributed to stiff competition from imported lumber, which is abundant and available at lower prices. Typically, the prices of trees are determined after logging and transportation expenses are factored in. Consequently, forest owners often receive insufficient revenue to cover reforestation costs, leading many to leave their forests untouched after logging. To tackle the challenge, a council promoting initiatives to safeguard Japanese forests by utilizing domestic lumber and the Japan Forestry Mechanization Society have jointly proposed the establishment of a new online market. The council, a general incorporated association, was established by six industry groups. The aim of the proposal is to implement a system where forest owners can set desired prices for their trees, provided that they commit to reforestation efforts after logging. Nobutaka Hasumi, 52, also of Hitachiota, is optimistic about the potential of the new market. “Knowing the value of our trees could encourage us to offer them for sale,” said Hasumi, who oversees a forest spanning 960,000 square meters. Data from the Forestry Agency reveal, however, that approximately 90% of forest owners in Japan have plots smaller than 100,000 square meters. Many owners say they are contemplating relinquishing their forests due to their old age and issues over inheritance, according to agency officials. “It’s important to find ways to engage small-scale owners” in the proposed market, Hasumi said. In a report released by industry groups in January, lumber distributors and other potential buyers expressed favorable views regarding the proposed creation of the new market. One said, “Ensuring the sustainability of forest resources is a social responsibility,” while another said, “We hope for transparent pricing mechanisms.” Conversely, there were critical perspectives regarding the inclusion of reforestation costs in prices, with one official noting, “Users are unlikely to accept high prices without objection.” The industry groups plan to conduct demonstration tests at four or five locations sometime during the current fiscal year to March 2025, aiming to establish a nationwide market within the next few years. During the period, they will hold discussions to finalize operational details, such as the functioning of the market system and criteria for buyer participation. Satoshi Tachibana, a professor at Kyoto University who chaired a study group focused on the new market, said, “There’s a widespread acknowledgment that the forestry industry needs restructuring, and there’s increasing interest among companies in utilizing domestic lumber.” Highlighting the significance of industry collaboration with local governments, Tachibana said, “I think a pioneering deal could create momentum for nationwide expansion of the proposed market.”

Explore of the intersection of fashion and sustainability in an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, the fashion industry stands at a pivotal moment of transformation. Source: Timberbiz FSC Australia and New Zealand is delighted to announce an event to offer a deep dive into how sourcing FSC-certified forest-based fibres for garments and textiles can support positive environmental, social and economic outcomes, and provide consumers with the responsible choices they seek. Insights include: The Vital Connection between Fashion and Forests Deep Dive: Successful Case Studies Interactive Session: Exploring opportunities for your organisation to support forest-friendly fashion FSC 101: The Meaning Behind the Label Circularity: Transitioning from Fossil-based to bio-based materials. A Call to Action: Overview of the Fashion Forever Green Pact and the Benefits of Becoming a Signatory The sessions will be held in Melbourne on 21 May from 9am to 4pm at the Treetops Room at the Melbourne Museum, in Sydney on 5 June at Doltone House Tribute Museum Jones Bay Wharf and in Auckland on 25 June at GridAKL, Wynyard. In Melbourne speakers will be: Step One: Greg Taylor, CEO and Founder Australian Sustainable Timbers: James Felton-Taylor, CEO and Owner Australian Fashion Council: Jaana Quaintance-James, CEO Hallmark Cards Australia and New Zealand: Lyndal Matthews, Product & Marketing Director SCS Global Services Regional Affiliate, Oceania: Nick Cappabianco, Director of Green Marketing Concepts   In Sydney, speakers will be: Step One: Greg Taylor, CEO and Founder Australian Sustainable Timbers: James Felton-Taylor, CEO and Owner Australian Fashion Council: Jaana Quaintance-James, CEO Winc: Linda Reid, Head of Marketing & Communications Global Mark: Emily Silberberg, Program Manager   In Auckland speakers will be: Step One: Greg Taylor, CEO and Founder Timberlands Pty Ltd: Colin Maunder, General Manager – Sustainability Fashion Council: Jaana Quaintance-James, CEO SAI Global: Brad Yow, Senior Business Development and Channel Manager, Business Assurance To register for these events, contact FSC Australia and New Zealand at info@au.fsc.org

The world-heritage listed Sydney Opera House, designed more than 60 years ago and arguably the most well-known and iconic building in Australia, has recently enjoyed a major renewal which has won a host of awards, including the 2023 Australian Timber Design Award. Source: Timberbiz Director of ARM Architecture, Andrew Hayne, will discuss the amazing acoustic and architectural transformation, accomplished through a marriage of innovative digital design, offsite manufacturing, and creative acoustic engineering. A key feature of the renewal was the inclusion of a series of stunning, sculptured solid carved Brushbox panels, which serve as aesthetic enhancements and acoustic heroes, breaking up and diffusing sound waves to eliminate problematic refections and creating a rich, enveloping auditory experience. Learn all about this absolutely fascinating design and construction journey which spanned over seven years, from project inception through to the gala reopening at the WoodSolutions webinar on 7 May at 11am, online and there is no cost. For more information here.

Research in Australia and Europe is moving closer to identifying an effective solution to the damage to forests caused by giant pine scale (GPS). The research project aims to boost our understanding of the effectiveness of the various available biological control strategies. Source: Timberbiz GPS poses a particular threat to Pinus radiata, a species that makes up 75% of Australia’s $1.16 billion softwood plantation estate but also infests other softwood conifers such as spruce, cedar and fir. GPS is native to Greece and Turkey and was first detected in Australia in 2014. Following its initial establishment in urban and peri-urban Melbourne, it has been determined to be non-eradicable. Greg Lefoe of Agriculture Victoria Research (AVR), which is leading the project, said GPS poses a major economic threat to the softwood timber industry. “GPS is difficult and costly to control with insecticides, therefore biological control is considered a priority,” Mr Lefoe said. “Successful biological control programs have a high return on investment for government and industry because, once established, biocontrol agents will continue to control the pest year on year.” Biological control is also considered to be an environmentally friendly approach to pest mitigation. AVR is conducting the research with the support of local industry partners including FWPA and various forest growers, as well as researchers in Greece, Switzerland and New Zealand. The project has already identified the predator Neoleucopis kartliana as the most promising biocontrol agent in the pest’s native Greece. Subsequent native range and molecular studies conducted by the research team found that N.kartliana is actually made up of three predatory species, two of which were previously undescribed. One of these species, designated Neoleucopis sp. B, was subjected to preliminary testing against native Australian scale insects. The results to date show the new species to be highly prey-specific, and therefore likely to be suitable for introduction into Australia. Based on these results, an application for the release of Neoleucopis sp. B is being prepared by the team. Further research is needed to determine its suitability for long-term, sustainable management of GPS in Australia. “Neoleucopis sp. B has proven its potential as an important GPS predator, and we have found no evidence of off-target attacks that might pose a threat to other insect species,” Lefoe said. The team has worked to demonstrate this proposed biocontrol agent will not threaten Australian agriculture or biodiversity. A main area of focus has been on exposing Neoleucopis sp. B to a range of native scale insects through lab experiments. “A major challenge of this research project has been the limited knowledge of Australian native scale insects that could be at risk from an introduced biocontrol agent,” Mr Lefoe said. “To address this knowledge gap, we partnered with a native scale specialist at the University of Queensland. During this research, the distribution, biology, ecology and phylogeny of native Australian scale insects was studied, leading to vastly improved knowledge of this group of native invertebrates.” The scientists believe the three Neoleucopis species may work together to target GPS, meaning the introduction of all three species could offer full season control under a range of climatic conditions. Again, further research is required to confirm this to be the case. FWPA recently extended this project through to early-2025 to allow for further field and lab studies of the three Neoleucopis species in Greece, and to re-import one of the species into Australian quarantine for further testing.  

Congratulations to Thomas Gordon of Clifton Station in New Zealand who won this year’s Pan Pac Farm Forester of the Year at Napier Port’s Hawke’s Bay Primary Sector Awards in April. Source: Timberbiz The Gordon family has been farming at Clifton Station since 1861. Today, Tom and his wife Lucia farm the 800ha station alongside their two children Frankie, 8, and Jasper, 7, and Tom’s parents, Angus and Dinah. Sixth-generation Tom has continued his family’s philosophy of innovation and diversification with effective use of farm forestry to improve low production and high erosion areas. Tom has utilized poor-performing land by planting a variety of tree species, as well as soil conversion plantings on erodible slopes.

A delegation of senior Chinese timber industry players from the China Timber & Wood Products Distribution Association (CTWPDA) visited Australia. With stops in Canberra, Tasmania, and Sydney, the delegation was on a mission to forge partnerships and explore opportunities in Australia’s vibrant timber sector. Source: Timberbiz “We’re thrilled to present to the CTWPDA delegation and showcase the sustainability and quality of Australia’s timber products. This presents a unique opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties and foster collaboration in sustainable forestry practices,” Matt de Jongh, Sustainability Manager at Responsible Wood said. James Jooste, CEO of the Australian Forest Products Association NSW, highlighted the significance of the delegation’s visit saying that Australia’s timber industry is renowned for its high standards of sustainability and innovation. Hosting the CTWPDA delegation allows us to showcase our capabilities and explore mutually beneficial partnerships. Investment NSW emphasised the economic opportunities presented by the visit, noting China is a key market for Australia’s timber exports and that strengthening trade relations with Chinese industry leaders not only benefits the NSW timber sector but also contributes to economic growth and job creation. Daniel Parkin from the Pentarch Forestry Group underscored the importance of collaboration in sustainable forestry management. “By sharing knowledge and best practices, we can work together to ensure the long-term viability of our forests. Collaboration with international partners like the CTWPDA is essential for advancing sustainable forestry initiatives,” he said. The delegation’s itinerary included meetings with key industry stakeholders and a site visit to a timber processing facility in Sydney. The purpose of the meetings was to provide the CTWPDA delegation with insights into the NSW timber sector, including a commitment to responsible forestry practices and the quality of our timber products. The exchange of ideas and expertise during the visit is expected to pave the way for future collaborations. “Building strong relationships with international partners is crucial for the growth and sustainability of Australia’s timber industry. The visit presents an opportunity to explore avenues for cooperation and expand market access,” Mr Jooste said. Mr de Jongh said that Australia offers a wealth of opportunities for investment and trade in the timber sector. Strengthening ties with Chinese industry players opens doors for increased cooperation and mutually beneficial partnerships. The visit of the CTWPDA delegation underscores the importance of international collaboration in advancing sustainable forestry practices and fostering economic growth. By working together, Australia and China can unlock new opportunities and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

The HIA Housing Scorecard report ranks each of the eight states and territories based on the performance of 13 key residential building indicators against their decade average, covering detached and multi-unit building activity, renovations, housing finance and rates of overseas and interstate migration. Source: Timberbiz“South Australia is one of the few markets where first home buyers can still afford a house and land package,” HIA Executive Director Stephen Knight said. “The state has capitalised on this relative affordability, with more and more people choosing it over the larger states to the east. “South Australia has the strongest detached housing sector in the nation with activity remaining resilient to the rise in the cash rate. “Recent efforts to increase higher density development in areas well serviced by transport will help accommodate this housing demand going forward,” he said. South Australia also has the nation’s strongest renovations sector that remains well above pre-pandemic levels of activity. Queensland took out second place in the rankings, trading places with South Australia over the last few years. The state has absorbed significant numbers of overseas migrants, as well as interstate arrivals, especially from New South Wales and Victoria. “Western Australia has had a remarkable surge up the rankings,” Mr Knight said. “The state has capitalised on its affordability advantages and strong economic and employment opportunities to jump from seventh position into third in just one year. “The main constraint for Australia’s mid-sized jurisdictions at the moment is simply getting enough labour to meet their housing demands, a constraint which is gradually easing,” he said. Mr Knight said the largest states, Victoria and New South Wales, faced the most acute land affordability constraints in the nation. He said this had left their detached housing markets more vulnerable to the compounding effect of rising interest rates. Combined with the dramatic decline in new apartment development as state governments tax investment in housing, this had driven these states down the rankings into fourth and fifth position respectively. The smaller states round out the rankings. “The Australian Capital Territory’s multi-units sector has been a valuable source of activity for this jurisdiction, testament to local authorities’ commitment to higher density living. A significant number of residents have nonetheless left the Territory since the pandemic shifted into the rear-view mirror,” Mr Knight said. “Tasmania’s slide down the rankings has been on the back of investors and local residents leaving the state after being such an important driver of the state’s pandemic and pre-pandemic booms. “The Northern Territory is still dependent on major government or mining sector investment to push it significantly up the rankings. “The synchronised cycle of the pandemic is coming to an end. The mid-sized states are pulling ahead,” Mr Knight said.

WA’s Cook Government’s Forest Management Plan 2024-2033 (FMP), which supports the decision to bring commercial logging of native forests to an end, will be bolstered with a $67.2 million investment over the next four years. Source: Timberbiz “This funding will support that historic decision, as well as create jobs, tackle climate change, and help manage water catchments,” Environment Minister Reece Whitby said. “This is important work, and our Government’s Native Forest Transition plan will also provide local communities the potential for forests to be used for recreation, tourism and other uses.” The funding, which will be part of the 2024-25 State Budget, will deliver: an additional 65 new jobs throughout Western Australia’s South West and metropolitan Perth, focused on a range of climate actions; a new forest health monitoring program; and support for emerging technologies, such as eco-acoustics, fire research, and ecological thinning, to improve forest health. “Under the new Forest Management Plan, some native timbers will still be available through ecological thinning, which promotes forest heath and resilience from drought and bushfires,” Forestry Minister Jackie Jarvis said. “The State Government is committed to working with the smaller sustainable mills that will play a valuable role into the future.” Funding will also support work with Traditional Owners, protection of native wildlife from feral predators and managing weeds and plant diseases. The new jobs will be created between 2024 and 2027 within the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) and partner agencies. The Forest Management Plan 2024-2033 came into effect on 1 January. It established the legal framework for managing more than 2.5 million hectares of forests across the State’s South West and includes a commitment to add more than 400,000 hectares of karri, jarrah and wandoo forests as nature reserves, national parks and conservation parks. Opposition Forestry spokesperson Steve Martin said the Government had cost industry jobs in its FMP and now taxpayers were footing the bill for new ones. “Minister Jarvis talks about working with smaller sustainable mills, but we’ve been asking her since the beginning of the year for updates on the status of supply contracts for small operators, with very little information provided in response,” he told The Augusta Margaret River Times. “Their decision to ban native hardwood forestry without warning or consultation threw legitimate and long-term multi-generational business into chaos, and their transition packages have been poorly targeted.” He said this week’s announcement meant more costs for taxpayers while “economic opportunities have been actively killed off by Labor”.

Commercial vehicle manufacturer MAN Truck & Bus will be the first European truck producer to launch a small series with a hydrogen combustion engine. The initially planned small series of around 200 units is to be delivered to customers in Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Iceland and selected non-European countries as early as 2025. The “MAN hTGX”, as the vehicle will be called, offers an alternative zero-emission drive variant for special applications, for example for transporting heavy goods – such as construction work, tank transport or timber transport. The hTGX can also be an environmentally friendly alternative to battery-electric trucks for use in areas without sufficient charging infrastructure or for markets where sufficient hydrogen is already available. MAN will hand over its battery-electric truck to customers for the first time in 2024 and scale it up from 2025. MAN has been the market leader for electric city buses in Europe since 2023. “We are continuing to focus on battery-electric vehicles to decarbonize road freight transport. These currently have clear advantages over other drive concepts in terms of energy efficiency and operating and energy costs,” said Friedrich Baumann, Executive Board Member of MAN Truck & Bus and responsible for Sales & Customer Solution. “However, trucks powered by hydrogen combustion engines are a useful addition for special applications and markets. We anticipate that we will be able to best serve the vast majority of our customers’ transport applications with battery-powered trucks. “For special applications, hydrogen combustion or, in the future, fuel cell technology is a suitable supplement. The hydrogen combustion engine H45 is based on the proven D38 diesel engine and is produced at the engine and battery plant in Nuremberg. “The use of familiar technology enables us to enter the market at an early stage and thus provides a decisive impetus for the ramp-up of the hydrogen infrastructure. With the hTGX, we have now added an attractive product to our zero-emission portfolio,” The hydrogen drive is particularly suitable for special transport tasks that require a special axle configuration or where there is no space for the battery on the frame due to the need for truck body work. The MAN hTGX offers high payloads and maximum ranges of up to 600 kilometres in its initially offered 6×2 and 6×4 axle variants. The H45 hydrogen combustion engine used has an output of 383 kW or 520 hp and a torque of 2500 Nm at 900-1300 rpm. The direct injection of hydrogen into the engine ensures particularly fast power delivery. With hydrogen compressed to 700 bar (CG H2) and a tank capacity of 56 kg, the vehicle can be refuelled in less than 15 minutes. With less than 1g CO2/tkm, the MAN hTGX will fulfil the criteria as a “zero-emission vehicle” under the new planned EU CO2 legislation.

Envisioning a climate-stable future requires a dual strategy as far as the world’s forests are concerned: protecting and restoring natural forests for all of their ecological and climate benefits while also sustainably managing working forests to drive the global transformation to a sustainable, circular bioeconomy. Source: World Economic Forum Many are uncomfortable at the thought of cutting down a tree. While wood is a useful material, people don’t like the idea that it should be harvested from a forest. In a 2017 study commissioned by the North American Forest Partnership, nearly four out of five respondents thought wood was a renewable material; however, fewer than one in five associated the forest sector with sustainability. That’s an unfortunate misconception and in our current era of climate disasters, it’s becoming a dangerous one. The reality is that sustainable forestry and forest products can help us save the planet from ourselves. Here are five ways how. Investing in reforestation Investing in natural forest restoration Supporting Indigenous peoples and local communities Reducing pressure on intact forests and their biodiversity Reducing the carbon footprint of construction The full article can be read at: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/04/sustainable-forestry-climate-action-development-biodiversity/

Old-growth forests, with their intricate and rich biodiversity found nowhere else, are indispensable to our planet’s health and resilience. Recognizing their importance, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has diligently developed standards aimed at safeguarding these precious ecosystems. Source: Timberbiz Since FSC first developed the High Conservation Value (HCV) approach in the late 1990s, it has been used to identify and manage outstanding and/or critical environmental and social values in production landscapes, this includes old-growth, rainforest and mature forests. It is essential to acknowledge the diversity of definitions surrounding old-growth forests as recognized by various formal entities including the European Commission, FAO, UNESCO, Carpathian Convention and others. The term ‘old-growth’ is often misused interchangeably with others such as primary, virgin, and primeval forest. These various definitions lead to different interpretations of how to identify and preserve them. Moreover, distinguishing between old-growth forests and managed forests with similar tree age and ecological attributes is crucial. While managed forests can exhibit characteristics similar to old-growth forests, they are designed and managed to support sustainable timber harvesting and economic development. Restricting logging based solely on tree age, reduces the overall environmental value of managed forests. In Romania, trees can be harvested only after they reach their maturity: 120 years for beech and 140 years for oak. When limiting logging beyond this age, forests will be managed with shorter rotation periods, favouring younger trees for logging – a common practice in other parts of Europe. This prevents forests from reaching their natural structure and age and has detrimental effects on biodiversity and the wealth of ecosystems inside of them. Starting in 2011, FSC worked closely with WWF Romania to promote the strict protection of old-growth forests (read more about this here and here). This laid the groundwork for significant achievements, culminating in the introduction of the National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) for Romania in 2017. The NFSS details specific rules and criteria aimed at safeguarding old-growth forests. These measures include provisions for maintaining biodiversity, protecting threatened habitats, and fostering stakeholder engagement. Notably, the NFSS was developed through an inclusive, multistakeholder approach with environmental NGOs actively participating in the process. As we move forward, it is important to continue this collaborative approach, ensuring that our focus and actions align with the shared goal of preserving old-growth forests for generations to come. Together, we all stand with trees, advocating for their protection and nurturing the rich ecosystems they sustain.

Isuzu Australia has released new independent industry research revealing evolving trends and challenges within Australia’s road transport sector. Developed in conjunction with external research specialists, The Future of Trucking Report: The Way Forward is the largest and most comprehensive survey of its kind ever conducted in Australia. Source: Timberbiz The report highlights findings from more than 1,300 survey respondents from transport operators, including prominent general freight and last mile delivery fleets, through to construction, government, health and other niche industry sectors with the results offering a unique insight into the state of Australia’s essential road transport industry. IAL Director and Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Harbison, explained that since first publishing the inaugural The Future of Trucking report in 2020, the road transport operating landscape has continued to evolve, both locally and globally. “An important goal of this year’s report was to identify and monitor emerging and entrenched trends, and to look at how operators are navigating these within the Australian truck industry. “The second instalment of the study uses this critical lens to delve into these issues—with the intent of better understanding overall industry sentiment, evolving technology systems, as well as procurement and maintenance requirements. “There’s no doubt that our industry is on the cusp of transformation, especially in relation to technological and regulatory change,” Mr Harbison said. “Pleasingly, our updated findings paint a confident picture of a strong and proactive sector ready to grapple with these challenges head-on.” With a positive response from industry participants, The Future of Trucking (2024) report includes the following key takeaways. The Australian truck industry is expected to evolve rapidly in the coming three years; with that growth comes tighter profit margins and rising fuel prices, which are at the top of business and truck fleet challenges faced by Australian transport operators right now. The national freight task continues to grow, although growth expectations are bullish from previous findings. Across the Australian truck parc, the average tenure of new truck ownership remains at six years. Concurrently, the purchase preference for pre-built OEM vehicles as an alternative to custom built trucks has increased for Australian businesses. The evaluation of new truck ‘total cost of ownership’ continues to be the primary driver of purchase over initial upfront pricing, with this approach having increased since previous findings. Data reveals that the market continues to be motivated by increasing safety standards, and bolstering safety the number one reason for adopting new truck technology. In the next five years, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are some of the key safety technologies business are looking to adopt. Active (autonomous) safety features available in new model trucks are being more widely adopted by larger fleets and Government operators. Australian fleets have indicated a strong appetite for the adoption of zero tailpipe emission vehicles, though the timescale for introduction remains mixed. Perceptions continue to improve surrounding the current suitability of electric trucks and supporting charging infrastructure, with participants earmarking electric vehicles as a key solution to Australia’s transport future in the next 10-15 years. Industry awareness and action on Chain of Responsibility (CoR) compliance remains unchanged from previous findings with three out of 10 operators unaware of CoR or without policies to comply. Businesses indicated a preference for completing major truck repairs at OEM dealerships (including parts and componentry), citing workmanship, timeliness, or service and availability of parts as key factors. John Walker, IAL’s Head of Marketing and Customer Experience and Project Lead for The Future of Trucking report, said these fresh findings point to the innate resilience across the sector. “Be it regulatory, societal or technological, a key theme emerging from the report is that change within our sector is as constant as it is ongoing,” he said. “Overwhelmingly, our latest report shows significant positivity about the overall position of the road transport sector. We trust that this ongoing research project will arm and assist strategic thinking and decision making within our industry.” For further information about the report, including a full report download, visit The Future of Trucking: The Way Forward at www.isuzu.com.au/news/future-of-trucking

An alliance of housing, property and social service organisations is pressing the Federal Government to significantly amplify its efforts to alleviate the national housing shortage. Source: Timberbiz The Property Council of Australia, National Shelter, the Housing Industry Association, the Community Housing Industry Association, ACOSS, Master Builders Australia, and Homelessness Australia are jointly urging the government to double the Housing Australia Future Fund to $20 billion in the upcoming budget. This would be a critical step towards meeting the ambitious target of constructing 1.2 million new homes by 2029 under the National Housing Accord. “The government has made important commitments and progress is under way – but the Prime Minister must bolster his housing agenda to strengthen the delivery of new homes,” said Shelter CEO Emma Greenhalgh. CHIA CEO Wendy Hayhurst said: “We are at a critical juncture in addressing the housing crisis in Australia. Doubling the Housing Australia Future Fund would boost revenue to invest in much-needed affordable homes to benefit generations to come.” Property Council Chief Executive Mike Zorbas said that there was no time to lose. “We are at a housing crossroads. The government should double down on its leadership position and help states and territories speed up planning and housing supply across the board,” he said. Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said: “We know one of the biggest handbrakes on housing supply is making it easier for new projects to get the green light by kickstarting private investment and reducing development costs and delays.” The alliance outlined a series of recommendations in a detailed letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, urging comprehensive enhancements to the National Housing and Homelessness Plan. The recommendations are: Doubling the Housing Australia Future Fund in the upcoming budget to $20 billion, Publishing a draft of the National Housing and Homelessness Plan for further engagement and consultation with the sector Setting targets for both social and affordable housing in the National Housing and Homelessness Plan and reflecting these in the Accord. Including the National Housing Supply and Affordability Council in the oversight of the delivery and the reporting of the Accord and the National Housing and Homelessness Plan. Establishing transparent and accountable governance arrangements with regular reporting on the progress of the delivery of the Accord and the National Housing and Homelessness Plan, including reporting each six months on barriers to the delivery of homes, and ongoing formal engagement with the sector on the progress of the Accord. Requiring Commonwealth departments that touch on any aspect of the delivery of the 1.2 million homes commitment to place the National Housing Accord at the forefront of their policies and programs and remove any barriers that will delay or inhibit the delivery of these homes. Holding State and Territory governments to account against the National Planning Reform Blueprint.

Sumitomo Forestry has announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Sumitomo Forestry Australia is partnering with the Australian company Cedar Pacific Investment Management on a Build-To-Rent (BTR) multi-family housing development project. Source: Timberbiz This is the first time Sumitomo Forestry Group has participated in BTR development operations in Australia. The project involves the development of a 475-unit, 31-floor multi-family rental building in Brisbane, Queensland. The project is part of the Queensland Government’s BTR Pilot Project to deliver affordable rental housing, of the total 475 units, 250 units will be provided as affordable housing. The building will contribute to decarbonization, aiming to achieve net zero operational carbon, based on a 5-star rating under Australia’s Green Star environmental certification program and Australia’s Net Carbon Neutral Standard. Construction will begin in May 2024 and completion is scheduled for October 2026. The site is located in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia’s third largest economic region, approximately 1.5 km from the central business district (CBD), a major employment hub. Conveniently located, the site is about 10minutes by foot to Roma Street Station on the Cross River Rail, a new subway line scheduled to open in 2025, and approximately 20 minutes by car to Brisbane Airport. The Brisbane Live Arena, slated to be one of the main competition venues for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, will be built nearby. In addition, throughout the South Bank area across from the Brisbane River are universities and other educational institutions, the Queensland Museum and other museums, and amusement facilities.

In an era where corporate responsibility and community engagement are more crucial than ever, the Frame & Truss Manufacturers Association (FTMA) takes great pride in recognising businesses that go the extra mile with the introduction of the FTMA Community Award. Source: Timberbiz This accolade is designed to honour FTMA members who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their communities, through sustainable practices, social responsibility, and active involvement in local initiatives. The 2024 award found its deserving winner in Big River Group Breakwater (BRG Breakwater), a company that has set a sterling example of community engagement and ethical business practices. BRG Breakwater’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in their community is evident across various initiatives, including their seminal sponsorships of the River’s Gift Foundation, Bay Leaf Community Kitchen, and House4Health. These projects, aimed at combating sudden infant death syndrome, alleviating food insecurity, and promoting health and well-being, respectively, stand as testaments to BRG Breakwater’s holistic approach to community service. Their capability to lead by example, particularly in achieving a significant 95% reduction in landfill waste, further underscores their leadership in environmental stewardship and sustainable business practices. What set BRG Breakwater apart in the eyes of the FTMA judging panel was not just their remarkable contributions to crucial community projects but their genuine, unwavering dedication to societal well-being. Through their actions, BRG Breakwater has breathed life into the concept of a ‘social license’—the idea that businesses should not only generate economic value but also positively contribute to the fabric of society. Upon receiving the 2024 FTMA Community Award, General Manager Darren Benn encapsulated the spirit of BRG Breakwater. “For generations, our business has been ingrained in supporting the local community. Recognising the value of people and being actively involved in community initiatives is part of our DNA,” he said. This accolade not only celebrates BRG Breakwater’s past and present efforts but also shines a light on the path they are paving for a future where businesses play a pivotal role in nurturing their communities. The FTMA Community Award is about more than just recognising good deeds; it’s about inspiring a movement within the industry towards greater corporate responsibility and community involvement. BRG Breakwater’s achievements are a call to action for businesses everywhere to take a step forward in making the world a better place, one initiative at a time. FTMA News congratulates Big River Group Breakwater on their well-deserved win, looking forward to the continuous impact of their work and the example they set for businesses across the nation. Their recognition serves as a reminder that amid the pursuit of business success, the most enduring legacy is the difference we make in the lives of others.

  The inception of the Jackson Kidd Wellbeing Award was born out of a profound personal tragedy, yet it transformed into a compelling force for positive change within the timber frame and truss industry. Source: Timberbiz Moved by the loss of Jackson Kidd, a vibrant individual whose life ended far too soon due to the struggles with mental health, his parents Dean and Tammy Kidd worked alongside FTMA to create a lasting legacy in his honour. The idea was to present an award that would not only serve as a perpetual tribute to Jackson’s memory but also act as a catalyst for eradicating the stigma around mental health issues in the workplace. Together, Mr and Mrs Kidd and the FTMA launched an accolade that emphasised the critical importance of mental health awareness and support. The Jackson Kidd Wellbeing Award which aims to encourage companies to prioritise the mental well-being of their employees as much as their physical safety. The presentation of the inaugural 2024 Jackson Kidd Wellbeing Award to AAA Advanced Trusses was a great occasion, marked by emotional speeches from Mr and Mrs Kidd. In a night tinged with solemn remembrance and heartfelt commitment, AAA Advanced Trusses stood under the spotlight, not just for their industrial achievements but for the profound impact they’ve made in the realm of mental health within the workplace. AAA Advanced Trusses, led by Colin and Andrew Clements and Ryan Goodes, has set a precedent for how companies can cultivate a nurturing, supportive work environment. Their comprehensive approach to employee wellbeing, underscored by initiatives such as the Annual Wellness Reviews and Employee Assistance Programs, reflects a deep understanding of the importance of mental health. Their commitment goes beyond standard practices, creating a workplace where employees not only have access to physical wellness facilities like an on-site gymnasium but also benefit from emotional support systems fostering a sense of belonging and safety. The award presentation at the Geelong Cats Stadium during the 2024 FTMA National Conference Dinner was emotionally charged. The AAA team’s acceptance speeches shed light on personal tragedies with mental health, underscoring the imperative for attention and action in this area. It was a night that touched the hearts of the 270 attendees with a raw, powerful message about the importance of mental health support in the workplace. AAA Advanced Trusses’ victory in winning the inaugural Jackson Kidd Wellbeing Award was a poignant reminder of the impact companies can have on their employees’ lives beyond the workspace. They stand as beacons of hope and progress in the industry, pioneering efforts to ensure that their employees feel valued, safe, and supported at all times. This award is a testament to the fact that change is possible and that the fight for mental health awareness and support in the workplace is gaining ground, one step at a time.

Net sawmill capacity in North America declined by 2% in 2023 as slowing lumber demand and over-production made their mark. A flood of sawmill expansions and new greenfield mills over the last six to seven years has added large amounts of lumber capacity, mainly in the US South. These capacity increases have tended to offset numerous mill closures, mainly those in British Columbia, Canada (BC) and the US West, with a few surprising closures recently in the US South. And as lumber prices moved below breakeven prices in some regions in 2023, higher cost mills were closed, sometimes to rationalize timber supplies around multiple company sawmill sites. Nine sawmills were permanently closed in 2023. So far in 2024, three new sawmills started operating in the US South while nine more sawmills – in all regions of North America, except Eastern Canada – have announced closures, not to mention many shift reductions at BC mills, some permanent. Forisk’s North America top ten softwood lumber producers’ ranking had an estimated 36.9 billion board feet of lumber capacity in 2023 and represented 49 % of total North American capacity. Five of the top ten companies have their head offices in Canada. West Fraser remains the largest producer in North America with 7.0 billion board feet of capacity, while Weyerhaeuser and Interfor were closely grouped in second and third spot (see table). The top US softwood producers were led by Weyerhaeuser with 4.6 billion bf of capacity. The top ten companies had about 50% of total US softwood lumber capacity. The top Canadian lumber producer was West Fraser with 3.5 billion bf of capacity. The top five Canadian companies had about 47% of total Canada softwood lumber capacity, all with operations in the US. In the North American lumber markets, April can often be the start of two-to-three-month cycle of higher prices. In contrast to last year, W-SPF 2×4 prices (FOB mill) plummeted starting late February and did not recover until July 2023. In 2024, W-SPF prices have so far stayed in the US$400s and slightly eclipsed their 2023 peak price of US$460/Mbf in March. Things have been looking better for SPF, but lower prices are inevitable! It is the US South, however, that region has been experiencing very weak lumber prices. Normally, SYP trades at a US$ 50-60/Mbf premium to W-SPF on a FOB mill basis, but in mid-April it was trading at a massive US$ 120/Mbf discount (W-SPF at US$ 410 and SYP-W at US$ 290). Many SYP sawmills are now below cash-costs, and this has resulted in some temporary and permanent sawmill curtailments in the South – something not seen since the housing market collapse 15 years ago. Consequently, SYP mill capacity curtailments are expected prices to allow prices to move higher over the next few months and more. At the high end, US Inland lumber prices have come off 10% from their recent peak levels. Fir-Larch 2×4 KD R/L prices in mid-April were US$ 525/MBF and Hemlock-Fir at US$ 520 – both are huge FOB mill premiums to W-SPF and SYP. Nevertheless, SPF lumber prices in BC are moving lower to below break-even levels due to constrained and expensive log supplies that make sawmilling so difficult in that province. So far this year, closure announcements include West Fraser (Fraser Lake) and Western FP (Port Alberni), and curtailments or reduced output at a variety of mills includes at Tolko Industries (Williams Lake), Interfor (scattered mill production reductions), with Dunkley, Teal Jones, San Group and others have been reported as taking some temporarily downtime or shift reductions. The US market will probably be the most stable global market in 2024 despite having a few headwinds. High mortgage rates from global inflation and a shortage of existing homes for sale has been a benefit to new residential home builders as a key option for new home buyers. US housing demand and housing starts are expected to remain like 2023 in 2024, and slightly better if the pending recession is avoided. A net benefit to lumber demand is that more single-family houses are forecast to be started in 2024 than in 2023 and they consume three times the lumber as multi-family units. In other major markets such as Europe, China and Japan, lumber demand so far in 2024 has been negatively impacted by oversupply, high interest rates and a lack of consumer confidence, creating flat to lower demand and prices. Essentially, the global lumber markets are not doing too well, as there is still too much supply chasing weak to perhaps stable demand. The global outlook for 2024 is for flat to perhaps some increase in demand in a few regions, but stable markets will still require a constrained supply – this could be a challenge in 2024 in some markets. Most, including myself, expect the second half of the year to be better than the first half – early signs indicate that this could be very possible. These topics and others will be in full discussion at the GLOBAL WOOD SUMMIT in Vancouver BC between October 28 and 30! Visit: https://russtaylorglobal.com/global-wood-summit-vancouver-bc/ Russ Taylor is a US-based forest industry consultant and analyst.

Monday’s Earth Day provided a chance to reflect on why one of our most climate-smart materials is wood – specifically, engineered mass timber. While other bio-sourced materials also exist, timber is growing in forests as we speak with volumes making it feasible for commercial use in construction industry on a global scale. Mass timber in construction brings with it a vast array of environmentally sustainable benefits. Its lightweight durability means that you can deliver a higher volume to site with a single delivery, saving on emissions across transportation. Compound this with the benefits of mass timber being prefabricated in factories: a mass timber building kit can be erected in weeks. This means that workers need not be on site for as long as compared to current mainstream construction materials, reducing construction timelines whilst potentially increasing profit margins. Most importantly, prefabricated elements support increased worker safety, as more work is performed in controlled factory conditions versus the project site uncertainties of weather and much else. Not to mention timber’s inherent sustainability strength. Trees remove CO2 during their growth, with the carbon stored in the wood remaining sequestered within the building’s structure for its lifespan. Utilising biogenic materials with this high carbon sequestration capability can turn a building from a source of carbon emissions to something positive – a means of carbon storage. Even more, wood substitutes for high-emission conventional building materials. Thus, wood can be a powerful means of contributing to sustainability and climate mitigation efforts. Earth Day is focused on raising awareness and fostering action towards environmental protection – a collaborative effort that extends to the forestry practices associated with producing mass timber. With two million hectares of forest land globally, the majority in Sweden and significant holdings in Finland, Estonia, Romania, China, Brazil, and Uruguay, Stora Enso exemplifies commitment to sustainable forestry. The 99% of forests owned or managed by Stora Enso are certified, and all the wood used in its sawmills is sustainably and legally sourced by implementing third-party certified chain of custody and due diligence systems, such as PEFC. In addition, Stora Enso is committed to a net positive impact on biodiversity within our own forests and plantations by 2050. This holistic approach to environmental, social, and economic sustainability is the basis for sustainable forest management that responsibly cares for and uses forests, enhancing biodiversity, productivity, regeneration capacity, and vitality for the long term. Johanna Pirinen is  SVP, Sustainability and People & Culture at Stora Enso