Forest Products Industry

German wind turbine blade maker Voodin Blade Technology has announced the first-ever real installation of its wood-based blades on a wind turbine in Breuna, Germany. Source: Interesting Engineering These 63-foot (19.3-meter) long blades are made from laminated veneer lumber (LVL). This wood-based laminate material is considered more sustainable than existing fiberglass and other synthetic composites used to make wind turbine blades. More importantly, the blades should be easier to decommission and recycle once their lifespan expires. Since most wind turbine blades have a shelf life of around 20 to 25 years, replacing and disposing of older blades will be a big headache in the coming years. Currently, most wind turbine blades are buried at life’s end as the material they are made of cannot be readily recycled. For this reason, blades made from wood, like Voodin’s, could eliminate one of wind turbines’ major Achilles heel: the inherent issues of manufacturing and disposing of their blades. To this end, Voodin’s wooden blades could be the perfect solution to bolster wind turbine technology’s claimed green credentials. Composite materials, such as fiberglass and epoxy resin, cannot be reused, which results in wasted material after decommissioning. Wood, on the other hand, is a much more sustainable raw material. “At the end of their lifecycle, most blades are buried in the ground or incinerated. This means that at this pace we will end up with 50 million tonnes of blade material waste by 2050. With our solution, we want to help green energy truly become as green as possible,” says Tom Siekmann, CEO at Voodin Blade Technology. Voodin utilizes CNC milling machines that excel in creating intricate 3D shapes. As a result, the manufacturing process is highly automated, eliminating the need for molds in the production facilities. CNC milling technology also provides greater flexibility since it can be used to manufacture blades of any kind. Increasing the level of automation reduces the need for labor in manufacturing. As a result, manufacturing is no longer necessary in countries with lower labor costs. This could also open up the possibility of production being relocated closer to wind farms, leading to a reduction in transportation costs and emissions caused by transportation. Wood, particularly LVL, is a highly durable material that outperforms composite materials currently used in various industries. Voodin has conducted extensive laboratory testing to guarantee the material’s ability to withstand the harshest conditions in onshore wind energy production. “We have conducted hundreds of laboratory tests during the past two years to perfect the blade material. According to all our tests, our blades are even more durable than the existing fiberglass blades, as they show fewer fatigue characteristics and are proven to endure all kinds of onshore weather conditions extremely well,” explains Jorge Castillo, co-founder of Voodin Blade Technology. The company has installed the first set of prototype blades on an existing wind turbine near the city of Kassel in Breuna, Germany. The next step is to build bigger 197-foot (60-meter) and 263-foot (80-meter) blades.

Long-serving PNG forest industry leader, Bob Tate recently died in Port Moresby, aged 70, after suffering a short illness. A memorial mass was celebrated at the Koki United Church Port Moresby on 28 March 2024. Source: Friday Offcuts Born in Sydney, Bob Tate was well known across PNG, Australia, and the wider sector. From 1996, Mr Tate was the Executive Officer of the PNG Forest Industry Association (PNGFIA) and represented the Papua New Guinea forest industry, both nationally and internationally, on all issues impacting the sector (with his signature cigarettes and rum and coke drinks). He was a member and representative on many industry groupings, including the Commonwealth Forestry Association, National Climate Change Advisory Board, National Forest Board and the ITTO Trade Advisory Group. During 2004, Mr Tate, along with the Curator of the National Botanical Gardens and the head of the Office of Environment and Conservation, was instrumental in establishing the National School Tree Nursery Project ‘Trees for Survival’. A major revegetation project was undertaken with Port Moresby schools, which allowed school children and communities the benefit of studying environmental concerns, and, particularly, the vital role that trees play in the PNG ecosystem. Mr Tate is survived by his family; partner Betty Oauke-Tate, Tate brothers Allan and David, and sister Christen, and their extended families in Australia and Papua New Guinea.

The state government has defended its panel that will investigate the future of Victoria’s native forest estate but did not comment on its lack of bushfire expertise. Source: Philip Hopkins, Latrobe Valley Express The membership of the panel had been strongly criticised for its lack of a bushfire expert by a Latrobe Valley forest and business consultant, John Cameron. The Express also asked the government whether the panel would consider the report by the federal-state Major Event Review Panel that investigated the impact of the destructive 2019/20 fires on the Regional Forest Agreements. The panel, which submitted its report a year ago, made 36 recommendations on future forest policy but has received no reply from the state or federal government. A government spokesperson said the end of native timber harvesting presented new opportunities to improve forest management, balancing recreation and tourism for Victorians to enjoy time outdoors, while protecting the environment and supporting Traditional Owner self-determination. “The taskforce will play a critical role in engaging with Victorians to determine the best forest management practices, with each member bringing specialised knowledge from various fields such as environment, tourism, regional development, and outdoor recreation – ensuring a comprehensive consideration of all options during the consultation process,” the spokesperson said. “As part of this important work, the taskforce will consider a wide range of resources including the report from the Major Event Review Panel.” The government’s Great Outdoors Taskforce, led by the former Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Lisa Neville, will consider the future management and use of state forest previously available for timber harvesting. Commercial native timber harvesting in Victoria ceased on 1 January 2024. The taskforce will work alongside the Eminent Panel for Community Engagement that is currently engaging with Victorians on the future management and uses of state forests in the Central Highlands. The taskforce has promised to widely consult with communities and stakeholders on the options to protect the environment and support recreational, social and commercial opportunities in the forests. This includes investigating opportunities for recreation and tourism such as camping, hunting, hiking, trail-bike riding and four-wheel driving. The work will be undertaken over the next 12 months and consultation details will be released in the coming weeks. Mr Cameron said wildfire was the single most important threat to the state’s 7.5 million hectares of native forest. “There is a clear need for a bushfire expert to be on the Great Outdoors Taskforce,” he said. More information here.

Nearly 250 hectares of trees will be planted, and the carbon outcomes researched as part of a new grant program supporting Tasmanian farmers. Private Forests Tasmania is excited to announce the recipients of a $450,000 co-investment to support farmers on private land in Tasmania to plant and grow more commercial trees on their properties.Source: Timberbiz The Stems for CO2 Program supported by the State Government’s Renewables, Climate and Future Industries Tasmania will directly support three Tasmanian farmers with upfront establishment costs to successfully integrate commercial trees into their agricultural enterprise. PFT Chief Executive Officer Dr Elizabeth Pietrzykowski said the successful applicants were chosen due to their demonstrated ability to meet the assessment criteria and program objectives of: Carbon modelling conducted on successful grant recipient properties that identifies the expected carbon abatement of the plantings for their deemed length of rotation. Successful establishment of commercial tree plantings that are integrated into the agricultural landscape. Communicate the carbon benefits of commercial trees to farmers, producers and landowners. PFT launched the grant on 2 February 2024 with applications closing in March. An independent assessment panel comprising of individuals with experience in carbon, forestry and agriculture assessed the applications received, with their recommendation going to the PFT Board for final approval. The three recipients who will establish about 249 hectares of commercial tree plantings are: The Tasmanian Government committed $10 million for new actions that will maintain Tasmania’s net-zero emissions status into the future in 2023 and $600,000 was awarded to PFT to deliver this program. “The marketplace is evolving rapidly with significant growth opportunities in carbon, natural capital and new timber products and services. A priority area for PFT is to demonstrate economic and environmental impact that planting the right tree in the right place can have for Tasmanian farmers,” Dr Pietrzykowski said. “Forestry can be a solution for sectors, like agriculture, where the market is demanding carbon neutrality throughout the supply chain, including Tasmanian farmers. “The Stems for CO2 program will allow us to gather some vital information and research to help us communicate the carbon outcomes and opportunities when commercial trees are integrated into whole-farm planning. “PFT through its expanded interactive Tree Alliance Knowledge Hub and strategic integrated farm forestry program will actively work to engage and educate Tasmanian landowners about the carbon benefits of planting trees.”

The Albanese Government has taken a key step in delivering an important $10 million election commitment in Forestry Workforce Training this week with the opening of tenders for the program’s delivery, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA), Diana Hallam said today. Source: Timberbiz “I thank Minister Murray Watt for his continued support of this great Australian industry through this important initiative.” Ms Hallam said. “The forestry industry is a significant employer in rural and regional Australia and like many sectors is struggling with capacity and skills in a tight labour market and this program will provide much needed support to ensure access to contemporary and specific training and credentials required for the workforce. “The suite of skills needed for a career in the forestry, wood, paper and timber industries is extensive and our capacity to supply skilled labour is being challenged. This challenge has been raised with me by every employer I have met, and we appreciate the Albanese Government’s assistance.” Australia’s forest and wood products industries supply the nation with vital building and construction materials, packaging and many essential household products – all are increasingly important for Australia as we move to replace plastics and decarbonise the economy. This diverse industry requires a specialised workforce and an issue faced by these industries is accessing the specific training and credentials required for the workforce. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is now searching for a service provider to deliver the Program through an approach to market in line with the recommendations of the Scoping Study. Assistant Secretary of Agvet Chemicals and Forestry, Julie Gaglia said identifying a preferred supplier through an open tender approach would support the delivery of the Program to ensure it meets the training needs of the forest, wood products, pulp and paper and fibre sectors. “The industry is a significant employer in rural and regional Australia, directly employing 52,000 people,” Ms Gaglia said. “Due to the remote location and ageing workforce, increased participation in the workforce by First Nations Australians and women will be increasingly important. “An issue often faced by the forestry industry is accessing the specific training and credentials required for the workforce. “The selected service provider will work to support the delivery of skills and training to meet the requirements of Australia’s forest and wood products sectors and provide long-term sustainable solutions for industry and workers. “They will also provide solutions to structural impediments identified in the scoping study completed late last year.” Potential suppliers can submit a tender via AusTender now. The approach to market will close at 9:00 am on 28 May 2024. You can submit a tender here.

A total of 33 fire events were averted this fire season in the Green Triangle due to the sophisticated work of Australia’s largest network of smoke detection cameras with plans progressing to expand the infrastructure to cover more blackspot areas for future seasons. Source: Timberbiz The Green Triangle Fire Alliance’s (GTFA) network of 14 cameras, which provide a 360-degree scan of the landscape using AI technology, delivered 24-hour seven day a week observation across 1.3 million hectares of landscape, covering 10 local government areas. Operated by AI specialists Pano AI Pty Ltd, the cameras acted as the first point of detection before the human eye on several occasions and positively identified 24 planned fuel reduction burns for a total of 57 detections for the season. This was in addition to the detection of thousands of private permit burns late in the season. South-west Victoria’s seven cameras, which are located at Dergholm, Lake Mundi, Digby, Dartmoor, Rennick, Nelson and Hicks Hill, near Macarthur, successfully captured 14 unplanned blazes. South Australia’s seven cameras are located in Mt Benson, near Robe, Elad Road and The Bluff in Wattle Range, Furner, Mt Burr, and Carpenters Rocks. Green Triangle hardwood plantation companies ABP (Australian Bluegum Plantations), SFM and PF Olsen are among nine GTFA member companies which invested in the new technology to provide rapid detection and real-time intelligence to inform on-the-ground decision making for optimal use of fire resources. SFM chief operating officer Mike Lawson said the cameras had brought a new level of sophistication to fire management since being installed three years ago, supporting greater protection of the plantation estate, surrounding landholders, the broader environment and community. “These cameras have been instrumental in strengthening fire management across south-west Victoria and importantly we know that year on year these results are going to continue to improve as the AI becomes more sophisticated,” Mr Lawson said. “The cameras have been installed in blackspot zones in CFA (Country Fire Authority) Regions 4, 5 and 17 that were not well covered by traditional fire towers. The results, which are fed live to forest managers and fire authority digital devices, have been impressive with the cameras detecting fire up to six minutes before another detection source.” PF Olsen GT regional manager Andrew Matheson said the camera data, which was identifying fire up to 30km away, was shared directly to Victorian fire management authorities to support informed decision making and quick firefighting responses. “Fire detection in the region has been further strengthened by the plantation industry’s subscription to the Ororatech satellite fire detection service which is particularly useful overnight to support identification of overnight lightning strikes and burnt-out vehicles,” Mr Matheson said. “Matched together, this AI-camera and satellite technology provides an additional layer of coverage to ensure we are protecting our hardwood plantation estate, our agricultural neighbours and the broader community and environment.” ABP general manager operations Darren Shelden said it was critical to invest in more cameras to support the extensive fire tower network and mitigate the increasing risk of bushfire due to climate change. “Plantation companies have fully funded all the cameras in south-west Victoria. Four locations have been identified as new camera sites, including CFA towers at Mount Rouse and Mount Dundas and new sites at Tyrendarra and Nareen,” Mr Shelden said. “We are seeking to attract government support for this broader roll-out which will take the camera network to 11 in south-west Victoria.” Green Triangle Fire Alliance manager Anthony Walsh said the alliance looked forward to continuing strong collaboration with CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria to best use the new technology. “The Green Triangle Fire Alliance is proud of these excellent results and the outstanding effort of our more than 300 trained forest firefighters who work tirelessly alongside state agencies to keep our assets and broader region safe,” Mr Walsh said. “Our industry helicopter and new investment in floating collar tanks to supply water in areas with limited surface water have further increased the level of aerial firefighting capacity in the region, mitigating the risk of a large fire spreading.”

For a decade, the Victorian government-owned forestry controller VicForests has been a tinderbox of incompetence looking for a match. Gifted a near monopoly on Victoria’s forestry, it is my view that the organisation has failed to manage our timber industry. Too many forestry contractors working for VicForests broke the rules. From reports of logging outside allocations to logging old-growth forests, this has gifted activists’ solid legal pathways to halt harvesting and in turn, practically bankrupted the state-owned organisation. VicForests is yet another Victorian example of bureaucracy gone wrong. When they broke the rules, they lobbied the government to change them. When caught by activists, they employed private investigators to, according to the ABC, spy on them. When challenged in court they spent millions of taxpayer funds defending the indefensible. VicForests had so much rope they managed to hang themselves along with the state’s timber industry. One might ask where the state government was in all of this, considering the body charged with the industry oversight the, Office of Conservation Regulator, did not do enough to hold VicForests accountable… A cynic might believe the Green-Labor government was only too happy to watch the forestry industry vanish. I think VicForests should be shut down, but it shouldn’t take the industry with it. The state government, under new leadership, must go back to the drawing board on forestry. Timber is essential for the construction industry, our country’s manufacturing sovereignty and has the modern virtue of sequestrating massive volumes of carbon. The framework for successful forestry management already exists within the non-government Forestry Stewardship Council. The principals of the council are scientifically based, independently audited, and already cover 200 million hectares of forest globally. The state government, alongside the FSC, should set an allocation each year and let logging contractors bid for a license to harvest. Licensees would need to demonstrate ongoing compliance, with failure to do so resulting in suspension. The state government can provide a framework for the industry, issue and collect license fees, but should not have direct involvement in the business of forestry. If the result of accountability is reduced timber yield at a higher cost, let the market decide what it’s willing to pay. As it stands for manufacturers the price point of Victorian Ash is at least 30% less than the next comparable hardwood species. In practical terms that’s hundreds of millions in margin across the current allocation. Money which could go toward better forestry management, local jobs and saving the taxpayer. Marcus Bastiaan is a director at Specialty Doors

To say that the money spent on the Green Triangle’s network of smoke detection cameras was well spent is an understatement. That at least 33 fire events were averted in the most recent fire season is nothing short of amazing. The system also positively identified 24 planned fuel reduction burns for a total of 57 detections for the season as well as the detection of thousands of private permit burns late in the season. This meant fire brigades were not sent on time consuming wild goose chases. The Pano AI system was installed in south-east South Australia as part of the South Australian Government’s $2.346 million upgrade of the region’s fire tower network, with $1 million targeting the new technology. The program also received significant support and funding from forest industries. Spanning 14 locations – seven in the South East and seven in Western Victoria – Pano AI offers a comprehensive turnkey solution that integrates high-definition cameras, satellite feeds, artificial intelligence, and modern cloud software to detect and pinpoint new ignitions and alert fire professionals within minutes. The key to keeping fires small and limiting the impact on industry and the community is through rapid response and the world-leading actionable intelligence helps fire crews get to the scene faster and safer. “South Australia’s $1.4 billion forest industry has had a long and strong history of embracing cutting-edge technology and the implementation of Pano’s AI fire detection system continues this proud legacy,” South Australian Minister for Primary Industries, Regional Development and Forestry, Clare Scriven said last year. “Unfortunately, fire doesn’t recognise boundaries so this collaborative State Government/industry initiative in utilising this ground-breaking technology helps us to ensure the best fire management tools are at our disposal. This is a system that isn’t just for the benefit of the Green Triangle forest region but is a win-win for all other landscape users, primary producers and local communities,” she said. Of course, the Minister is dead right. And it’s the sort of technology that needs to be rolled out across the country. It’s relatively cheap, and will get cheaper, and it will in the long run save money, time, jobs, and most importantly, lives.