Australian timber industry news

From strategic decisions shaping the future of the PEFC alliance to discussions on forest resilience, timber construction and sustainable innovation, the PEFC Forest Forum 2026 brought together the global forestry community for a week of exchange and collaboration in Istanbul, Türkiye. Source: Timberbiz Members and colleagues from 40 countries gathered from 11–14 May to strengthen connections across the network, share knowledge and explore how PEFC certification can support resilient forests, responsible supply chains and sustainable development. The week culminated in a public conference showcasing Türkiye’s growing role in advancing sustainable forest management and certification. Throughout the week, participants shared experiences and insights from across the PEFC network, discussing opportunities and challenges facing forests and forest-based industries around the world. A key milestone of the Forum was the 34th PEFC General Assembly, where members approved the PEFC Project Sourcing standard and the associated requirements for certification bodies. These approvals mark an important step forward in supporting responsible sourcing for construction and other project-based sectors. The General Assembly also welcomed The Navigator Company and Sumitomo Forestry as new PEFC international stakeholder members, further strengthening the PEFC alliance and expanding engagement across the forest sector value chain. Members additionally elected Emma Berglund and Kurt Ramskogler to the PEFC Nominations Committee. The public conference day focused on the opportunities and challenges facing Türkiye’s forest sector as it moves towards its first PEFC Sustainable Forest Management certifications. Four panel discussions brought together national and international experts to explore how certification can support resilient forests, responsible supply chains and sustainable economic growth. The first panel examined the role of timber construction in supporting low-carbon development and resilient infrastructure, particularly in earthquake-prone regions. Discussions highlighted innovation in modern timber architecture, the advantages of timber as a high-performance building material, and the growing role of PEFC Project certification in verifying responsible sourcing. The second panel focused on forest resilience and climate adaptation. Speakers explored how sustainable forest management and certification can help forests respond to increasing pressures from climate change, drought, pests, and wildfires, while supporting biodiversity conservation and resilient communities. Attention then turned to Türkiye’s certification journey, with discussions highlighting the expansion of forest certification, advances in digital monitoring and traceability systems, and the opportunities PEFC certification can create for international market access and credibility. The final panel explored the potential of non-timber forest products, including medicinal plants, honey, natural oils, mushrooms, and cork. Speakers highlighted opportunities for innovation and value-added production, as well as the role sustainable forest-based value chains can play in supporting rural livelihoods and biodiversity conservation. The Forum concluded with a field trip to Istanbul’s Atatürk Arboretum and Belgrade Forest. Guided by forestry students, participants explored the area’s rich diversity of tree and plant species and learned about its role in forest education and research. The visit also provided insights into forest fire monitoring and prevention efforts, including a stop at a fire observation tower overlooking the Bosphorus.

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As timber harvesting operations demand higher productivity, improved operator control and greater versatility across applications, Kesla introduces its new generation of forwarder cranes. Source: Timberbiz The new F-series covers the size classes KESLA 9F/FT, 10F/FT, 12F/FT and 14F/FT. The range has been developed to meet these evolving industry requirements by combining performance, precision and modularity with proven durability and life-cycle efficiency. The four size classes in the new range offer a gross lifting moment of 120–180 kNm, covering a wide spectrum of the most common forwarder sizes. Each model is available both as a single-extension F-version (reach 8.2 m) and a double-extension FT-version (reach 10.07 m), enabling an optimal solution for varying operational and reach requirements. Two different pillar height options for each model allow flexible integration with different base machines and applications. The KESLA F-series has been developed as a unified product family, where key structural solutions and operational characteristics remain consistent throughout the range. This supports: efficient production, easy maintenance, a consistent user experience, smooth integration with OEM partner machines, efficient spare parts management.   During development, extensive customer feedback from existing cranes on the market was collected and combined with comprehensive field testing across different markets. The cranes have been tested in multiple applications and on various base machines, with highly positive user feedback – particularly regarding motion control, power feel and swing torque. Key benefits for the operator Performance: strong lifting torque and smooth power delivery across the entire working range. Controllability: precise and predictable movements in all working situations. Geometry: optimized boom dimensions, efficient operation with minimal crane movement. Durability: thoroughly tested structure both in forest conditions and on test benches. Serviceability: designed for easy maintenance. Smart hydraulics: proven hose routing solutions and component selection; internal hose routing inside the extension boom is a patented solution.   The modular design of the F-series enables a wide range of configuration options to meet different customer needs. The cranes are compatible with various link options and offer multiple pillar height alternatives, facilitating integration with different base machines and applications. The modular approach also minimizes the number of spare part items, supporting efficient product support. Thanks to the versatility of configurations, the new F-series cranes are also well suited for feeding chippers and other industrial applications. “The F-series represents a new level in Kesla’s crane development. By listening closely to crane users, we have combined our long experience with modern product development to create a product family that meets the needs of both machine manufacturers and contractors well into the future,” said Mika Tahvanainen, Product Management Director at Kesla.

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Global oil prices fell on Monday following news of a tentative deal between Iran and the US to extend their ceasefire agreement and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but a veteran oil watcher doesn’t see crude prices returning to pre-war levels anytime soon. BNN Bloomberg Eric Nuttall, partner and senior portfolio manager at Ninepoint Partners, told BNN Bloomberg on Monday that traders are trying to determine where the price of oil will settle out in the coming days and weeks, as many key details about the deal still need to be ironed out. “Will the Strait of Hormuz actually be toll-free? The (US) vice president this morning said that those details are going to be worked out over the next 60 days, and that has a really profound impact,” he said. Stay on top of your portfolio with real-time data, historical charts and the latest news on oil Nuttall noted that even if the strategically important Strait of Hormuz is fully reopened as a result of the Iran-US deal, it will take time for oil markets to recover from the volatility of the last three and a half months. “Let’s acknowledge where we sit today; the market has forfeited 1.7 billion barrels of Middle Eastern (oil) production by the time the lag effect ends,” he said. “We will have lost roughly 11 million barrels per day of that production, and it can’t come onstream until ships are actually willing to not just leave the Strait empty but actually come back.” In addition to the logistical backlog and supply chain disruption, the war in Iran has caused extensive damage to petroleum facilities across the Middle East, Nuttall explained. “We also have enormous damage at a number of facilities, about 70 in the world,” he said. “I was in Washington last week and some of the scuttlebutt was that damage in some countries is far worse than has been let on.” Although the Iran war led to higher oil prices, which is typically a positive for North America’s major petroleum producers, Nuttall noted that energy investors “should never have wanted” the direction oil markets were heading prior to Monday’s ceasefire extension. “The US strategic petroleum reserve only really had 50 million barrels left of actual usable capacity,” Nuttall said, citing information he and his team gathered after recent meetings in Washington. “That would have been exhausted by July to August, so we think the US administration was under far, far more pressure than what they acknowledged, and the new normal, so to speak, for the oil market is much, much different than what it was three or four months ago.” Nuttall said he believes around US$80 a barrel for the US benchmark West Texas Intermediate will “serve as the approximate floor” for oil prices going forward. Oil prices were sitting at roughly US$70 per barrel prior to the start of the Iran war in late February. “Just getting all of this unbelievable, nausea-inducing volatility out of the way, where we have to spend our Saturdays following Donald Trump’s Truth Social network, hopefully those days are over,” said Nuttall. “But again, we will not have details for either days, weeks, or up to two months.”

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SouthPAN is boosting mapping and GIS accuracy for New Zealand’s Bioeconomy Science Institute. The Institute’s remit includes managing forest inventory, keeping track of pests and diseases, and supporting precision forestry operations. Source: Timberbiz First introduced in 2020, SouthPAN (Southern Positioning Augmentation Network) is now a core part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute’s forestry workflows. Accurate positioning is crucial for the Institute’s success; it wanted to see if SouthPAN could make a difference. SouthPAN, or the Southern Positioning Augmentation Network, is a space-based augmentation system that vastly improves the accuracy obtainable from the various GNSS such as GPS. A joint Australia/New Zealand project, it is being led by Geoscience Australia and Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand (LINZ). The Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao makes use of a wide variety of equipment and workflows that rely upon precision positioning, such as field mapping and UAV-based aerial imaging. Traditional positioning technologies such as handheld GPS units often can provide accuracy of only 15 metres in some challenging forestry environments. Utilisation of other systems such as RTK or higher-grade GPS units dramatically increases capital and ongoing costs. There are also the problems of sometimes-long acquisition times, which means more time spent in the field and inconsistent data quality due to variable positioning performance. That’s where SouthPAN comes in. The Institute put SouthPAN to the test using a low-cost GNSS receiver to see how its performance would compare with traditional systems. The evaluation showed that using the low-cost unit with SouthPAN can, for the Institute’s purposes, give results comparable with more expensive systems. Importantly, the combination resulted in sub-metre accuracy. This means the Institute has been able to capture more data, more quickly. “SouthPAN can help turn precision forestry into a more accessible and more scalable capability across forestry operations,” said Peter Massam from the Bioeconomy Science Institute. Other benefits include being able to standardise workflows, cutting point acquisition from three minutes to 20 or 30 seconds, and speeding up of data collection by three to five times. “SouthPAN delivers a quicker, more precise location in less time, with little to no post-processing,” Mr Massam said.

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The tree policy for Yarra Ranges residents has been officially updated at the last council meeting on 9 June, and the process for complaints along with it. Source: Ranges Trader Star Mail Aligning itself with principles across the council’s tree canopy strategy, nature and liveable climate plans, the new 2026 tree policy endorsed by councillors last week has had some changes made to the way complaints and reviews are managed. Bringing the complaints process into line with council’s customer complaint policy, residents must now settle issues or disputes over trees by going through a four-level complaint system. Previously, the residents unhappy with a decision to retain a tree could bring the matter through the Tree Management Team hierarchy, potentially involving senior managers and councillors. The policy also includes new sections and guidance on roots, infrastructure and cultural significance and was out for community consultation on the Shaping Yarra Ranges website from 15 January to 8 February this year. The policy was delayed for approval earlier in March when it was slowed from a majority vote by councillors. On 9 June, Councillors Gareth Ward and Tim Heenan spoke in support of the motion before it was put to a vote. “The substantive change in this version aligns with the decision review process with our customer complaints policy,” said Cr Ward. “When a resident queries a tree decision, they should encounter the same escalation pathway, the same accountability structure, and the same external review options they would find with any other council matter,” he said. “The community response during the consultation period was broadly supportive, and operational queries raised through submissions were addressed through the arrangements platform, so I’m happy to support tonight’s motion.” With around 1,250 ha of Council controlled parks and reserves, 1,757 kilometres of road corridors, and 600 km of roadsides on main roads, the policy said in a report on Australian local government tree canopy cover, Yarra Ranges was said to have the highest number of trees in Victoria and the second highest in Australia. Less operational than the 2017 document, the new policy references Council’s separate Tree Risk Assessment Framework and other operational documents in how they will manage trees on council-owned land and roadsides. The updated policy aims to balance the need to protect and retain trees alongside managing the risks they can pose to people and property. Cr Tim Heenan spoke about the level of supreme responsibility the council has regarding tree management, the large number of trees they deal with, and the high quality and experience the tree management staff bring to the table. “Over many, many years on council, we’ve had major issues with trees, either ones that we want to retain or ones that we believe should not be retained,” he said. “What we have in front of us here tonight, I believe, after everything that we’ve gone through, is a fair assessment of what we need to do for the future.” The motion, moved by Cr Gareth Ward and seconded by Cr Tim Heenan, was carried unanimously, with all councillors voting in favour.

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Engineers at the University of Auckland have carried out one of New Zealand’s most demanding full‑scale earthquake tests to understand how modular timber buildings behave under real‑world shaking. Source: Timberbiz The team, led by Dr Ashkan Hashemi and Professor Pierre Quenneville, along with PhD student Rajnil Lal, tested a two‑storey structure made from cross‑laminated timber (CLT). CLT is becoming increasingly common in modern construction thanks to its low-carbon profile and fast assembly. But despite growing interest in timber buildings, there is limited full-scale evidence of how they perform during major earthquakes. To address that challenge, the engineers developed a novel system that includes prefabricated building modules with a resilient seismic connection between floors and walls. The system allows the structure to move in a controlled way during an earthquake, reducing the forces that typically cause damage before returning the building to its original position. “This has the potential to become groundbreaking research,” Dr Hashemi said. “The future of the construction industry is modular buildings, with modules fabricated off-site and assembled on-site … New Zealand’s high earthquake demands have made this less feasible, but this research provides a novel solution.” The test was carried out on a two-storey timber building with the weight of a third storey simulated on top – a set up reflecting the medium-density townhouses and apartments now common across New Zealand. Testing took place at the University’s Structures Test Hall in Newmarket, one of the few facilities capable of shaking a full‑size building using realistic earthquake motions. Over several weeks, the team ran the structure through simulations based on real earthquake records, including both horizontal shaking and twisting motions to capture the complex forces buildings experience during major seismic events. The building remained stable throughout the tests, with no damage found in the main timber elements. About 60 industry professionals attended an open day to watch the system in action. Many attendees were struck by the building’s low damage performance and the fact it withstood 100 strong shakes without structural harm. “They were surprised because they’re not used to seeing a building sustain even one major earthquake, let alone a hundred,” says Dr Hashemi. The technology could support modular housing, mid-rise commercial buildings, schools, healthcare facilities and rapid-build projects in the future, all while reducing carbon and construction waste, he says. “This test proves that sustainable, fast-to-build timber structures can stand up to major earthquakes, and signals more seismically resilient construction is ahead.” The research was supported by the Wood Industry Development and Education (WIDE) Trust and Te Hiranga Rū QuakeCoRE, along with sponsors from the timber construction sector. WIDE Trust funds a range of timber design, architecture and sustainable forestry projects at the University of Auckland.

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New Zealand’s forestry sector is set to benefit from sensible regulation to help meet environmental obligations whilst lowering the cost of compliance, Forestry Minister Todd McClay says. Source: Timberbiz “The wood and forestry industries are important contributors to New Zealand’s economy, supporting 42,000 jobs. Last year the sector contributed NZ$6.2 billion worth of export earnings,” Mr McClay says. “It’s prudent we set appropriate legislation and provide the tools that support the sector – and this Government has been fixing the basics to do exactly that.” Recent action from the Government includes: Further reducing the costs of participating in the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) Registry Updating the National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry (NES-CF) with targeted changes to reduce the regulatory burden for forestry operators, while ensuring environmental risks continue to be managed Simplifying the legal harvest assurance to be voluntary and fit-for-purpose to better meet current and future business needs   “The last Labour Government wanted forest owners to pay an excessive NZ$30.25 per hectare per year to enter the ETS, forcing the sector to take legal action,” Mr McClay said. “Following consultation, we’re lowering that, for a second time, to $NZ10.28. “This represents a 66% reduction in the annual charge since the National-led Government took office. We have been working to ensure the system is fair, efficient and proportionate.” The updated structure also lowers ongoing costs for mature forests, addressing concerns about indefinite charges, and eight new targeted fees will be introduced to better align costs with services used. The Government has been focussed on cutting red tape for farmers and growers and this includes forestry. “Through targeted changes to the NES-CF we are making council rules more consistent, so the commercial forestry industry can meet their environmental obligations without being unnecessarily held back. “The current standard was designed to provide a nationally consistent framework for managing the environmental effects of plantation forestry. However, changes have allowed councils to bypass that intent by imposing more stringent rules without clear evidence or justification. “This change focuses on risk and will mean rules are targeted to sites where slash is most likely to mobilise and cause harm.” The forestry sector will also benefit from a simpler, fit-for-purpose legal harvest assurance system, with the Government agreeing to a model and to develop legislation to replace the 2023 mandatory system to better meet current and future business needs. “Consultation feedback was clear; that there is a better way to support legal harvest assurance without adding unnecessary cost and complexity. We have listened,” Mr McClay said. The redesigned model allows exporters to voluntarily access a government assurance to help underpin their work in international markets and competitiveness, by providing consumers’ confidence the products were harvested legally.

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Sustainable Timber Tasmania has officially wrapped up a late fire season, with expanded AI-powered camera and satellite-based detection technology supporting bushfire detection across the state. Source: Timberbiz In the 2025-2026 season, Sustainable Timber Tasmania increased its AI-powered smoke detection camera network to 11 sites with new cameras installed at the Dazzler and Platts fire towers in the northeast. Satellite-based detection was merged with the camera network, adding a new layer to the existing technology network. This introduces efficiencies with verification and improves overall coverage, particularly in remote areas, and provide an additional independent detection source. Between November 2025 and the end of May 2026, the network detected 1,112 potential ignition or smoke incidents and escalated 91 fires to Tasmania’s three fire management agencies, including 73 to Sustainable Timber Tasmania. The busiest detection sites for the season were Doodys, Mt Horror and Mt Arthur. An escalation refers to a detected fire that is not a registered or permit burn and requires further assessment or response. Sustainable Timber Tasmania remains committed to enhancing Tasmania’s ability to detect bushfires early and respond quickly, helping safeguard forests and communities.  

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The Housing Industry Association (HIA) has told a Senate Inquiry that the Federal Government’s proposed tax changes will result in 35,000 fewer homes, despite being promoted as a solution to Australia’s housing affordability crisis. Source: Timberbiz HIA warned the reforms risk undermining the Government’s broader housing agenda and called on Senators to reject measures that Treasury itself expects will reduce housing supply. “At a time when Australia is struggling to build enough homes, Treasury is forecasting these tax changes will deliver 35,000 fewer homes. That’s an extraordinary admission for a policy being sold as improving affordability,” HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin said. “You cannot solve a housing supply crisis by making housing investment less attractive. More investment builds more homes – less investment builds fewer.” Ms Martin said the reforms rely on unrealistic assumptions about investor behaviour. “The changes assume investors will simply redirect their money into new housing. In reality, housing competes with shares, commercial property, term deposits and countless other investments. “Investors are free to take their capital elsewhere – and Treasury’s modelling suggests many will do exactly that. “The result will be fewer projects proceeding, fewer homes being built, and even greater pressure on affordability.” Ms Martin said the policy would do little to address the underlying supply challenge. “Budget papers indicate that around 75,000 existing homes may shift to owner-occupiers over the next decade. While increasing home ownership is a worthwhile goal, it does not increase the number of homes – it simply redistributes them. “Our core challenge is supply, and this policy does nothing to address it.” She added that the impact would be particularly acute in regional Australia, where smaller investors are critical to delivering new housing. “In many regional communities there are no large institutional investors waiting in the wings. Local investors are often the difference between projects proceeding or not. “Reducing their participation risks stalling much-needed housing supply in these areas.” HIA also said the reforms fail to recognise the role of diverse housing supply pathways, including knock-down rebuilds and medium-density developments. “A knock-down rebuild that replaces an ageing home with a modern, energy-efficient dwelling should be encouraged, not penalised. “It is also unclear why housing options such as dual-key developments and granny flats are overlooked, despite their capacity to increase supply.” Ms Martin said the changes come at the worst possible time, with Australia already behind schedule to meet the National Housing Accord target of 1.2 million new homes. “If we are serious about affordability, every policy should be judged on one question: will it deliver more homes? “On Treasury’s own numbers, these changes fail that test,” Ms Martin said.

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Queensland’s development sector is facing a pivotal moment, with a $127.5 billion pipeline of major projects expected over the next five years and growing pressure on project feasibility. Source: Timberbiz As construction costs rise and labour availability tightens, developers are increasingly focused on buildability, program risk and delivery models that can shorten timelines without adding cost. A Brisbane industry forum later this month will bring together tier-one contractors including Hutchinson Builders, Kane Constructions and engineering firm Aurecon to assess how prefabricated timber systems are performing across commercial and civic projects. Hosted by WoodSolutions, Timber Queensland and the ARC Advance Timber Hub, the Queensland Timber Trajectory forum will focus on the commercial realities of delivery, including procurement models, risk allocation and cost competitiveness. The discussion comes as developers face ongoing challenges with cost escalation, labour shortages and program delays, placing increased emphasis on methods that can accelerate delivery without increasing project risk. Recent Queensland projects are beginning to demonstrate how these efficiencies can be achieved. At the Inala Infill Apartments social housing project, cross-laminated timber floor panels were installed in just two days compared with a six-day program using traditional construction methods reducing crane time and improving build efficiency. Research across Australian mid-rise developments indicates prefabricated timber systems can further streamline construction by compressing program timeframes and reducing on-site labour demands. The forum will examine where these efficiencies translate into commercial advantage and the conditions required for broader adoption. Key sessions include: Olympic infrastructure insights: Lessons from the Paris 2024 Aquatics Centre and implications for Brisbane 2032 delivery, Tier-one builder perspectives: When timber construction becomes cost competitive at scale, Project case studies: Queensland examples demonstrating improved delivery outcomes. Timber Queensland General Manager Strategic Relations & Communications Clarissa Brandt said the industry was increasingly focused on performance outcomes.   “Developers are looking for greater certainty in delivery whether that is program, cost or risk,” Ms Brandt said. “Modern timber systems are part of that conversation because they can improve buildability, reduce site complexity and support more predictable outcomes.” The Queensland Timber Trajectory forum will take place at the University of Queensland on 30 June 30 12:00pm – 5:00pm at the GHD Auditorium, University of Queensland, St Lucia. More information at https://www.timberqueensland.com.au/event-details/woodsolutions-presents-queensland-timber-trajectory-award-winning-exemplars-showcasing-the-way-to-modern-construction

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Mature and old-growth forests are vital for biodiversity, carbon storage, cultural traditions and economic activity. But in Alaska and British Columbia, these rich resources haven’t been reliably mapped, leaving much unknown about what land is protected. Source: Timberbiz Now, University of Oregon researchers are leading a comprehensive mapping effort that sheds light on the location, makeup and conservation status of old-growth forests across the region. Their data show that more than 40% of mature and old growth forests in the study area are in places that lack permanent legislative protection. These forests also store the most carbon in the study area. “Our goal was to better capture where old-growth forests exist, how and where they’re being conserved and what the different vulnerabilities are based on the policies that govern conservation efforts,” said study lead author James Lamping. The study was recently published in the journal Ecosystems. Old-growth forests in Alaska and British Columbia are protected through a range of land classifications, including national parks, national monuments and wilderness areas. But by far the greatest area of old-growth forest was found in “Inventoried Roadless Areas” in Alaska. Inventoried Roadless Areas lack the permanent legislative protections found in places like national parks or monuments. Instead, they’re governed by the federal administration. For over 20 years, the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule has prohibited road construction or timber harvests in these areas. But changes in administrative priorities can alter the protections given to Inventoried Roadless Areas without going through Congress. “One of the biggest takeaways from our research is that the highest amount of old-growth forests are in Inventoried Roadless Areas, which happen to be the most vulnerable to changes in the policies that govern these forests,” said Melissa Lucash, UO geographer and co-author of the study. “The mapping effort showed just how much old growth, and how much carbon storage, exists in areas that are more vulnerable to these types of policy changes.” The researchers don’t call for policy changes or conservation protections in their paper. Instead, they provide the status of old-growth forests in Alaska and British Columbia, which can be used to track changes and guide policy. In Alaska, they found 3,720 square kilometres of old-growth forests in Inventoried Roadless Areas, compared to 1,560 square kilometres in national monuments and 730 in national parks. In Oregon, Washington, and northern California, land managers have used this kind of data to inform the Northwest Forest Plan, which dictates land use and management on federal lands in the Pacific Northwest. But in Alaska and British Columbia, there have only been piecemeal snapshots of old-growth forests, or global maps that lack precise information about their location and makeup, the researchers said. Mapping this data for Alaska and British Columbia was particularly challenging because the area spans international borders. “It’s been hard to get a good idea about how much old growth there is in Alaska and British Columbia because different agencies apply different definitions for old-growth forests, and these maps are often artificially dissected by borders,” Ms Lucash said. “We wanted to create a consistent framework that offers confidence in the maps that we produced.” Mr Lamping started with forest inventory plots that contain data about the makeup of forests, including tree species, vegetation and structure. He linked those measurements to satellite imagery, climate variables and topographic data to create a detailed map, making inferences based on how similar a given spot’s environmental conditions were to places that have been measured on the ground. The group mapped the different species in each forest, the type of forest, the amount of carbon storage and what percentage of each area is classified as mature or old growth. Knowing the makeup of the forest helps land managers better understand where conservation efforts could significantly enhance biodiversity and carbon storage. The group’s methodology can also be used to track changes in the forests over time. “The Northwest Forest Plan highlights how important old growth is and how much we need strong and consistent data for policy decisions,” Mr Lamping said. “But this data is just as important in Alaska and British Columbia. The Pacific Northwest’s temperate rainforests are all connected, so it’s vital that we have maps and continued monitoring for mature and old growth forests across the entire region.”  

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Proposals to reduce forestry activity and increase protected forest areas have become an important part of the European forestry debate. However, according to a new impact assessment, such measures risk leading to lower production, tens of thousands of lost jobs, and higher societal costs — without delivering any climate benefits. Source: PaperAge A new national forestry impact analysis shows that a more restrictive Swedish forestry policy would have far-reaching consequences for the economy, employment, and energy supply. The study was conducted by Tomas Thuresson, a forestry PhD and former Head of Silviculture at the Swedish Forest Agency, together with Runar Brännlund, Professor Emeritus of Economics at the Centre for Environmental and Resource Economics (CERE) at Umeå University. The report was commissioned by SCA. Jonas Mårtensson, Head of Business Area at SCA Forest, notes that the report highlights both the significant benefits of active forest management and the risks associated with seeking “simple solutions.” “Actively managed forests generate enormous benefits, both economically and for the climate. The fundamental principle is to harvest mature forests and replace them with new forests that can continue absorbing carbon dioxide. This also forms the basis for renewable products that replace concrete, steel, plastics, and other emission-intensive materials,” Mårtensson said. “The entire forestry system, which provides substantial climate benefits, is profitable and creates value. It generates jobs, investments, export revenues, and tax income. To me, the report illustrates how easily one can lose sight of the bigger picture in the pursuit of simple solutions and instead risk damaging a socially beneficial forest industry without actually achieving anything positive.” The researchers analyzed the effects of several policy proposals currently being discussed within the framework of EU forest policy development, including reduced harvesting, increased conservation set-asides, and so-called “Closer to Nature” forestry, which involves a greater use of continuous-cover forestry methods instead of clear-cutting. The report concludes that a reduction in harvesting would have a nearly proportional effect on forest raw material production. If harvesting decreases by 15%, production and economic value would decline by a similar amount. The most significant impacts occur under the “Closer to Nature” scenario, in which half of Sweden’s managed forests are converted to continuous-cover forestry methods and a larger share of forest land is set aside for natural development. According to the analysis, harvesting would then decline by 25-%30%, while the supply of sawlogs would fall by 30% – 40% for several decades. This would result in the loss of between 25,000 and 35,000 jobs and a reduction in value added of up to one-third. “Restricting Swedish forestry is a costly illusion that in practice leads to leakage to other countries, a weaker economy, fewer jobs, and a reduced climate contribution. To me, it is an obviously expensive and ineffective path that hinders the transition from fossil-based to renewable solutions.” Said Tomas Thuresson, a forestry PhD and former Head of Silviculture at the Swedish Forest Agency. Mr Thuresson points out, “Restricting Swedish forestry is a costly illusion that in practice leads to leakage to other countries, a weaker economy, fewer jobs, and a reduced climate contribution. To me, it is an obviously expensive and ineffective path that hinders the transition from fossil-based to renewable solutions.” A central question addressed in the report is how reduced forestry activity would affect the climate. The analysis shows that carbon storage in forests may increase in the short term when less timber is harvested. In the longer term, however, forest growth declines, which according to the report’s authors leads to reduced carbon sequestration both in forests and in wood products. The researchers also argue that the climate benefits of forest products may diminish. When wood is used in buildings, packaging, or energy systems, it can replace materials and energy sources associated with higher fossil emissions. If the supply of Swedish forest raw materials decreases, this so-called substitution effect is weakened. The report also highlights the risk of carbon leakage. If demand for wood products remains unchanged while production in Sweden declines, production may instead shift to countries with higher emission levels. Runar Brännlund notes, “The climate benefits of these measures, when material substitution and carbon leakage are excluded, do not justify the costs. When carbon leakage is also taken into account, one cannot rule out the possibility that the overall climate impact becomes negative.” Forest biomass currently accounts for nearly 40% of Sweden’s energy consumption, and a reduced supply of raw materials could affect the energy system, particularly district heating networks in larger cities. According to the report, the consequences would not be limited to the forest industry. Forest biomass currently accounts for nearly 40% of Sweden’s energy consumption, and a reduced supply of raw materials could affect the energy system, particularly district heating networks in larger cities. The analysis also shows that the socioeconomic cost of additional conservation set asides is substantial and is estimated to be roughly twice the cost of acquiring the land outright. According to the report’s authors, the focus should therefore be on maximizing the climate benefits of Swedish forests through active management and the continued development of resource-efficient products and materials. “If the goal is to achieve genuine climate benefits — that is, global emissions reductions rather than merely reductions in national emissions — the focus should be on active Swedish forestry and the continued development of the Swedish forest industry,” Brännlund says. “This would ensure both increased climate benefits and higher employment in Sweden.” The core of SCA’s business is the forest, Europe’s largest private forest holding. SCA offers packaging paper, pulp, wood products, renewable energy, services for forest owners and efficient transport solutions. SCA was founded in 1929 and has its headquarters in Sundsvall, Sweden.

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WoodWorks – Wood Products Council in the US has announced eight 2026 Wood in Architecture award winners, celebrating excellence and innovation in mass timber, heavy timber, light-frame, and hybrid building design. Source: Timberbiz The annual award program recognizes developers and design teams using wood in innovative ways that positively impact the environment, occupants, and communities throughout the US. “WoodWorks was founded to support innovation in modern wood design, and we’re fortunate to work alongside the teams taking on that work every day. Our award program gives us a chance to step back and celebrate what they’ve accomplished, and the projects that represent the best of what wood can achieve,” said Jennifer Cover, PE, WoodWorks President & CEO. An independent jury of design professionals reviewed, deliberated, and selected the winning projects based on four criteria: design excellence, innovative use of wood, sustainability & resilience, and market impact. Winning projects reflect a broad and evolving landscape for mass timber and light-frame wood construction, ranging from urban campuses to rural communities, and from small-scale buildings to flagship headquarters. “The winning projects illustrate not only what is possible today, but where the industry is headed,” Ms Cover said. “High-performance envelopes, advanced acoustic and vibration solutions, and hybrid structural systems are enabling wood to meet rigorous program requirements while delivering warm, human-centered spaces.” 2026 winning projects Amy Gutmann Hall, Data Science & AI Building Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Architect: Lake Flato Architects (Design Architect, Architect of Record); KSS Architects (Associate Architect) Structural Engineer: Buro Happold General Contractor: Gilbane Building Company Developer/Owner: University of Pennsylvania Cincinnati Public Radio Cincinnati, Ohio Architect: emersion DESIGN Structural Engineer: Schaefer General Contractor: Skanska Developer/Owner: Cincinnati Public Radio Doris Duke Theatre at Jacob’s Pillow Becket, Massachusetts Design Architect: Mecanoo; Architect of Record: Marvel Structural Engineer: TYLin General Contractor: Allegrone Companies Developer/Owner: Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival Knight Building Big Sky, Montana Design Architects: Integrated Design Cubed (IDCUBED) / NKBAK / Peter Rose + Partners; Architect of Record: Peter Rose + Partners Structural Engineer: RSE Associates, Inc. General Contractor: Highline Partners Developer/Owner: Lone Mountain Land Company The Kreher Preserve & Nature Centre Environmental Education Building Auburn, Alabama Architect: Leers Weinzapfel Associates Structural Engineer of Record: Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH); Delegated Design Engineer: KPFF General Contractor: W.W. Compton Contractor, LLC Developer/Owner: Auburn University – College of Forestry, Wildlife, and the Environment Mercer Middle School Seattle, Washington Architect: Bassetti Architects, A Design Studio of HMC Architects Structural Engineer: Coughlin Porter Lundeen General Contractor: Cornerstone General Contractors Developer/Owner: Seattle Public Schools Orange County Sanitation District Headquarters Fountain Valley, California Architect: HDR Structural Engineer: HDR General Contractor: Swinerton Developer/Owner: Orange County Sanitation District Under Armour Global Headquarters Baltimore, Maryland Architect: Gensler Structural Engineer: Thornton Tomasetti General Contractor: The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company Developer/Owner: Under Armour

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The Threads of Tomorrow Summit, to be held on 16 June in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland, will bring together leaders, innovators and change makers from across the fibre, textile and fashion industries to explore solutions, foster collaboration and inspire innovation for a more sustainable future. Source: Timberbiz Presented by FSC promotional licence holder Fashion & Textiles New Zealand, the summit will feature talks from industry experts and leaders, alongside the opportunity to explore the Innovation Hub stalls and discover the latest developments in sustainability within the fashion industry. FSC Australia and New Zealand will be participating in the Innovation Hub, showcasing how responsibly sourced forest-based materials can support the fashion industry’s transition towards more sustainable practices. From fibres and textiles to footwear and packaging, FSC certification helps verify that forest-based materials are sourced responsibly, supporting forests, biodiversity and the rights of workers, Indigenous peoples and local communities. As fashion brands increasingly seek lower-impact and traceable material solutions, FSC-certified forest-based materials like viscose, lyocell, natural rubber and paper-based packaging offer verifiable pathways to responsible sourcing and greater supply chain transparency. At the Summit, FSC will host an exhibit featuring apparel, textiles, footwear and packaging solutions from FSC promotional licence holders and certificate holders across Australia and New Zealand. The exhibit will highlight innovative applications of responsibly sourced forest-based materials and demonstrate how FSC-certified solutions can help drive more sustainable, scalable and circular approaches across the fashion and textile sector.

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Port Stephens Koala Hospital is strengthening its koala conservation efforts thanks to a recent koala feed tree donation from Forestry Corporation of NSW. Source: Timberbiz The koala hospital plays a vital role in caring for and rehabilitating injured koalas in the Port Stephens region, which is home to one of the state’s most important koala populations. Over the past five years, Forestry Corporation has donated more than 10,000 feed tree seedlings to the hospital. This year, the hospital has just received 2,600 seedlings grown from seed at Forestry Corporation’s Grafton nursery. PSKH General Manager Karen Varker said the seedlings will be planted and cultivated to support koala feed tree programs. “Every koala in our care relies on access to around approximately 1,000 trees for feed and habitat, so this donation from Forestry Corporation is greatly appreciated,” Ms Varker said. “Port Stephens Koala Hospital is committed to increasing and growing its work in plantations for koala feed trees and we have planted over 8,000 trees to date across a number of plantations. “The donations that the Forestry Corporation have contributed are vital to our work in this area and we are grateful for the continued support in this important work around koala conservation.” Forestry Corporation Partnerships Leader Alex Capararo said the donated seedlings include primary koala feed tree species forest red gum, grey gum and tallowwood. “This initiative represents a strong collaborative effort, drawing on the propagation expertise of eucalyptus species at the Forestry Corporation Nursery in Grafton to supply these essential trees,” Mr Capararo said. “These plantings play a critical role in the conservation and care of koalas, and we are proud to support and contribute to the outstanding work of the Port Stephens Koala Hospital.” As the land manager for NSW State Forests, Forestry Corporation grows millions of seedlings each year to plant in softwood and hardwood plantations.

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The launch of the new NZ Pine brand gives New Zealand’s forestry sector a stronger platform to promote the quality, performance and responsible production of radiata pine in global markets, the New Zealand Forest Owners Association says. Source: Timberbiz New Zealand Forest Owners Association chief executive Dr Elizabeth Heeg says the brand will help build recognition of New Zealand wood across global export markets. “NZ Pine gives growers, processors and exporters a shared platform to tell the story of versatile, reliable and sustainably grown New Zealand radiata pine in international markets. A stronger national identity can help customers understand where our wood comes from, how it performs and the responsible forestry practices behind it.” Dr Heeg says the brand’s credibility will be boosted by a government-backed standard, overseen by the Ministry for Primary Industries, setting out evidence behind its product and sustainability claims. “International customers are asking more detailed questions about the products they buy and the supply chains behind them. A clear standard will give customers confidence in the NZ Pine brand,” Dr Heeg said. New Zealand’s plantation forests also provide a renewable, year-round wood supply, with many forests independently certified under internationally recognised sustainability programs. “New Zealand pine comes from forests planted and managed to produce a renewable material,” Dr Heeg said. Our expertise and research base give us a highly regarded export product. The brand gives the sector a better way to promote those strengths to the world.” Dr Heeg says the brand launch complements the Government’s recent investment in new wood-processing technology. The Government is investing NZ$3.2 million over three years in an NZ$8 million project with VoMo Limited, a Red Stag Investments company, to assess the feasibility of producing prefabricated, fully fitted mass timber modules. “The NZ Pine brand will help us promote New Zealand wood more effectively overseas, while investment in new technology can expand the ways we use and process it here. New technology and better processing can help New Zealand use more of what we grow, reduce waste and build higher-value supply chains around a renewable resource,” Dr Heeg said. Dr Heeg says both announcements reflect the scale of the opportunity available from New Zealand’s renewable plantation forests. “A stronger international identity and continued investment in new products can help New Zealand earn more from the wood we grow,” she said.

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From the classroom to the workshop floor, students are getting a firsthand taste of life in the timber industry. With strong industry backing and growing demand, the ‘Try a Timber Trade’ Program is gaining momentum across Australia. Source: NTHA NTHA Trainees & Apprentices’ new Educational Pathways Program – Try a Timber Trade – is proving a hit with students and industry alike, giving young people a rare opportunity to step inside real timber businesses, get hands-on with industry tools and explore rewarding career pathways firsthand. With a successful inaugural program completed in Mt Druitt and a strong Liverpool intake now underway, the program is generating growing momentum across New South Wales as students discover the diverse opportunities available throughout the timber and manufacturing sectors. Funded and supported by the NSW Government, Try a Timber Trade is designed to bridge the gap between school and employment, helping young people build practical skills, industry knowledge and workplace confidence while connecting employers with the next generation of apprentices and trainees. The first program, held in Mt Druitt from 25 May to 3 June, combined practical workshops, classroom learning and industry immersion experiences. Students gained firsthand exposure to the timber supply chain, visited workplaces, met industry professionals and built their own timber projects using industry-standard tools and equipment. Following the success of the pilot program, the Liverpool intake commenced on 9 June, reflecting strong demand from students eager to explore new career opportunities. Open to students aged 15 and over in Years 10–12, the seven-day program combines four days of practical training with three days of workplace visits and industry engagement. Participants complete four nationally recognised units of competency, providing a valuable foundation for future apprenticeships, traineeships and vocational training pathways. NTHA Trainees & Apprentices Program Manager Natasha Ryan said the program was opening students’ eyes to career opportunities they may never have previously considered while giving them real-world experience that cannot be replicated in the classroom. “Try a Timber Trade gives students the chance to experience the industry firsthand and gain skills that can support future employment and training opportunities,” Ms Ryan said. “Several participants have already expressed interest in school-based apprenticeships, traineeships and full-time apprenticeships, while others are considering further vocational training pathways.” The hands-on nature of the program proved a major highlight. “Students loved the practical workshops, particularly making chopping boards they could take home. Creating something with their own hands and using industry tools gave them a real sense of achievement,” Ms Ryan said. Industry immersion days also left a lasting impression. “Visiting worksites, meeting apprentices and seeing the journey from milling through to finished products gave students a much deeper understanding of the opportunities available across the industry.” Ms Ryan said the program was equally valuable for employers. “It gives businesses the opportunity to connect with motivated young people, identify emerging talent and help build the industry’s future workforce.” The program’s success has been strengthened by strong industry support. Canterbury Timbers generously donated 16 lengths of Tasmanian Oak for students to use during their practical project work. NTHA also thanked the following businesses for hosting industry immersion days: Heritage Profiles & Mouldings DuraCube Australia Ryder Shop and Office Fitting Knights Timbers Belmont Timber Windoor Joinery   Upcoming program dates: Murwillumbah: 24 August – 2 September 2026 Mt Druitt: 9 November – 18 November 2026   Students interested in future programs are encouraged to speak with their Careers Adviser and complete an Expression of Interest form. Employers interested in becoming involved can contact Natasha Ryan on 0407 442 070 or natasha.r@ntha.com.au, or visit NTHA’s website for further information.  

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Global fire experts recently gathered in Hobart for the 8th International Fire Behaviour and Fuels Conference, bringing together fire managers, scientists and Indigenous land stewards from 22 countries. The event focused on one of the sector’s biggest challenges: how to live with fire in a rapidly changing climate. Source: Timberbiz A strong line-up of presenters shared their knowledge, with Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) making a strong contribution. Dr Victor Hurley presented the Pine Plains Fire Management Plan, showcasing how regionally grounded science can support clear, defensible fire management at a landscape scale. Phillip Brien highlighted innovative approaches to integrating complex analytics into operational planning, including a Loddon Mallee fire response tool that helps identify and protect sensitive ecological and cultural assets during suppression, while optimising burn scheduling in the region. Sam Hillman and Merinda Day-Smith shared research aimed at improving fuel assessment to strengthen fire behaviour modelling. Their work is testing a more consistent, structured approach to how fuel is measured, which will improve model accuracy and help evaluate fuel management outcomes. Peter Ashton presented on the First Attack Decision Support Tool, highlighting its development, trial and use in operational preparedness, and identifying areas for improvement and potential future use. Pauline Rudolph examined the cumulative impacts of fire across the Grampians and Little Desert, highlighting the scale of recent fires and the ongoing challenge of maintaining critical biodiversity in landscapes dominated by younger, more fire-prone vegetation. Tim Gazzard and Sam Hillman contributed to a session on firefighting effectiveness, sharing insights from the development and use of remote helidip sites in eastern Victoria. Their presentation covered operational learnings, testing of tank designs and how these insights are shaping future infrastructure. Levi Lovett and Tom Robinson presented as part of the Working as One – Culture and Country session. They spoke about how cultural burning and modern fire management can work together to care for Country and support safer communities. They also shared how FFMVic worked alongside Traditional Owners and incident management teams during the 2024–25 Gariwerd (Grampians) and Little Desert bushfires to help protect important cultural heritage. Mr Lovett further highlighted work at the World Heritage-listed Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, showing how strong partnerships, Traditional Owner leadership and tailored fire response helped protect this significant place. A key theme across the conference was the shared challenges facing fire agencies worldwide, including rising bushfire risk, increasing community expectations and the need for transparent, evidence-based decision-making. The conference also provided valuable opportunities to strengthen partnerships across agencies and countries. By sharing local expertise and learning from global peers, FFMVic is helping ensure Victoria’s fire management remains forward-looking and better equipped to protect communities, culture and the environment.

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Australia has some of the world’s strictest illegal logging laws, with due diligence requirements applying to both domestic processors and importers before timber products can be placed on the market. Source: Timberbiz To help businesses navigate these requirements, Responsible Wood has developed a new Technical Note explaining how PEFC certification can support compliance with the Illegal Logging Prohibition Act 2012 and Illegal Logging Prohibition Rules 2024. For countries without Commonwealth Country Specific Guidelines, certification can provide a practical pathway to demonstrate compliance and simplify evidence collection. Download the technical note here.

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Sydney based fund manager New Forests has launched its Global Landscape Opportunities (GLO) strategy, the company’s first global natural capital offering, investing across forestry, agriculture, and complementary markets such as carbon and biodiversity. Source: Timberbiz To be established in Luxembourg, the new strategy brings together New Forests’ two decades of experience investing across regional markets into a single, globally integrated portfolio, targeting opportunities across North America, Europe, Australia-New Zealand, Latin America, Southeast Asia and Africa. GLO will be open for institutional investment only. The launch responds to growing investor demand for institutional-grade, global allocations to natural capital, as capital markets increasingly recognise the role of land-based assets in delivering inflation resilience, diversification, and the potential for attractive long-term real returns, alongside environmental outcomes. “The launch of our Global Landscape Opportunities strategy marks a significant step in the evolution of New Forests as a global natural capital investment manager,” Mark Rogers, Chief Executive Officer, New Forests, said. “We are seeing strong investor demand for scalable, institutional strategies that provide diversified exposure to natural capital. This strategy responds directly to that need – bringing together our global platform, investment expertise, and track record into a single, offering. “Natural capital is increasingly recognised as a core component of resilient portfolios, offering the potential for long-term returns while supporting critical outcomes such as climate stability, biodiversity and sustainable land use.” The GLO strategy will invest across a broad spectrum of natural capital assets, including sustainable forestry assets, agricultural land and food production systems, carbon and climate-related investments, and biodiversity and ecosystem markets. “Historically, many investors have accessed natural capital through regional allocations, but not all institutions have the scale, resources or expertise to build and manage global portfolios themselves,” David Shelton, Global Head of Investments, New Forests, said. “Building on New Forests’ regional return performance, this strategy allows investors to access a diversified global portfolio where we actively allocate capital across regions, sectors and markets to optimise outcomes.” “Natural capital offers a compelling investment proposition, with characteristics such as attractive long duration return profiles, inflation hedging, and low correlation to traditional asset classes. It also provides exposure to fundamental global demand for food, fibre, renewable energy and ecosystem services.” The proposed asset allocation will be: United States, Canada, Europe, UK, Australia, and New Zealand – 60% to 80% of the portfolio Developed Latin America (Brazil, Uruguay and Chile) – up to 30% of the portfolio Southeast Asia, other Latin America regions, and Africa – up to 20% of the portfolio   The target audience for GLO is institutional investors including pension funds, insurance companies, family offices, endowments and foundations.

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