Australian timber industry news

Washington State University researchers have received a two-year grant to make more resilient and durable housing materials from thermally-modified cross laminated timber (CLT) and recycled carbon fibre. Source: Timberbiz The researchers, including Pouria Bahmani, assistant professor and Karl Englund,  research professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, along with Hui Li, assistant research professor in the Composite Materials & Engineering Centre, are collaborating with Composite Recycling Technology Centre (CRTC) in Port Angeles and Construction Engineering Research Laboratory to explore ways to use advanced thermally-modified CLT material in deployable structures, with a goal of extending its application to single and two-storey residential buildings. As part of the project, the researchers will analyse the structure and materials and evaluate the possibility of mass-producing these panels, a one-of-a-kind initiative in the Pacific Northwest. “One primary objective of this project is to develop methods for connecting the panels together, facilitating the construction of modular and deployable structures,” Bahmani said. “We utilize steel connections and will conduct thorough testing to ensure the safety and durability of these structures.” CLT is an engineered wood product typically used for construction. It consists of layers of wood boards stacked in alternating directions and bonded together with structural adhesives. This cross-lamination technique enhances the strength and stability of the timber panels, allowing them to bear heavy loads and resist deformation. Testing thermally-modified wood lumber at the PACCAR structural laboratory at WSU. CLT is renowned for its sustainability, as it is often made from fast-growing trees. It offers several advantages over traditional construction materials, including faster construction times, reduced environmental impact, and excellent thermal properties. The wood product has gained popularity worldwide as a versatile and eco-friendly alternative to concrete, steel, and other conventional building materials.  Because it’s lightweight compared to other construction materials, using CLT in modular construction and building projects can also save energy during transportation. The CRTC has been developing advanced CLT timber that uses thermally modified western hemlock in its formulation. Thermal modification makes the wood more resistant to decay and increases its durability. The researchers have been working to strengthen the thermally modified wood by adding repurposed carbon fibre composites to the CLT panels. Carbon fibre composite materials are used in many modern products, from aircraft parts to wind turbine blades to fishing rods. “We are currently focused on exploring the thermal modification process for western hemlock species to create modular, durable, and deployable structures constructed from thermally treated CLT panels,” he said.

A new EU funded project MoniFun (2024-2027) aims to establish the blueprint for a comprehensive European Forest Multifunctionality Monitoring System (EFMMS). The EFMMS deals with the challenges posed by climate change and environmental stressors on Europe’s forests. Source: Timberbiz “The need for such an initiative has arisen due to lack of harmonized European-level information required by policymakers and other stakeholders regarding the multifaceted aspects of forests. These aspects encompass properties related to forest resources, and the connection of forests with society, climate and biodiversity to support progress towards climate action and reversing biodiversity loss,” said Project Coordinator Lauri Mehtätalo from Natural Resource Institute Finland. The project will use a multi-actor approach to ensure the wide applicability of the monitoring system, addressing the information needs of various institutions and stakeholders. MoniFun aims at mapping the essential information needs and responding to these using data with sufficient quality and the most suitable data sources, such as remote sensing, national forest inventories and other existing data sources. Key innovations in MoniFun are tools that can efficiently combine these data sources using semi-automatic methods without a need to risk the confidentiality of the original data sets. To address methodological challenges, MoniFun will develop harmonized solutions, maximizing the system’s applicability. EFI leads a task in WP2 in which expert indicator definitions and methods for monitoring forest multifunctionality will be developed. “This task focuses on wood material flows and the related climate and socioeconomic impacts. More specific, we will develop methodological guidance for improving the tracking of wood flows and as a result the understanding and monitoring of the effects of wood use via connecting wood flows with end-use sectoral data. This will help us better assess the sustainability of wood products and their carbon storage potentials, as well as the effects on society,” said EFI Researcher Cleo Orfanidou. In addition, EFI will contribute on the indicator definition on socioeconomic demands for ecosystem services. Furthermore, EFI will help in identifying user and policy needs for monitoring forest multifunctionality (WP1), and EFI will also launch and manage grants to third parties to test and validate solution developed in MoniFun. MoniFun has 13 project partners from 11 European countries and is funded under the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation program.

Highlights of joint outlook report by Russ Taylor Global and Margules Groome Consulting addresses key softwood and hardwood topics, issues and outlooks. This new report, China Forest, Log & Lumber Report: Supply, Demand & Prices to 2030/2035, shows China will again become a significant growth market for softwoods especially for lumber. Source: Timberbiz The Chinese hardwood pulp sector will also see substantial growth with important fibre sourcing implications and opportunities. Some key trends and questions answered in the report are as follows: Softwoods: China’s softwood lumber demand peaked in 2019, a level unlikely to be reached for a very long time. Demand will increase slowly, but only by about 20% from 2023 to 2035. Lumber imports will surge over the forecast period by 50-75% to offset supply limited declining log imports. Log imports peaked in 2021 and are forecast to decline by more than 50% from the 2021 level by 2035. While 2024 will likely be lacklustre, recovering demand, low inventories and tight log supplies mean that prices will rise. Hardwoods: China’s hardwood eucalyptus plantation estate has expanded exponentially and based on size is now on par with Brazil. This expansion allows for more domestic supply than many would expect. The analysis shows that there are opportunities now for China to re-align and optimise its hardwood value chain. The hardwood pulp industry is forecast to increase consumption from ~20 Mt in 2023 to ~31 Mt by 2035. For more information about the report contact  Russ Taylor at russtaylor@russtaylorglobal.com or visit: https://russtaylorglobal.com/report-china-log-lumber-outlook-to-2035/

Thousands of people flocked to the popular Heyfield Timber Festival on the weekend of 17-18 February 2024. Source: Timberbiz The Heyfield Timber Festival has been running since 2021, and Heyfield Fire Brigade has supported the event every year. Heyfield Fire Brigade members attended this year’s Heyfield Timber Festival to entertain locals and pass on fire safety information. Heyfield brigade members spoke to more than 1,500 people and provide not only fire safety information and important resources, they also made sure there was a lot of fun for the children. The brigade made wooden fire trucks to provide an additional activity for the children, who raced each other squirting the trucks with hoses. This was a huge hit. “This has been the biggest year yet. The brigade did such a fantastic job and was so well received by the community,” Brigade Training Officer and key organiser Phil Graham said. “Next year the organisers might extend the festival for an extra day because of its popularity.”

Scion’s Rotorua headquarters has gone head-to-head with the Silicon Valley campus of top tech company Google and come out on top. The Dubai International Best Practices Award for Sustainable Development was presented to Scion’s Innovation hub Te Whare Nui o Tuteata. Source: Timberbiz Designed by RTA Studios and Irving Smith Architects, it was a finalist alongside Google Bay View in the United States designed by Danish studio Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and London-based Heatherwick Studio. This week, Jeremy Smith of Irving Smith Architects gave BIG partner Kai-Uwe Bergmann the grand tour of the Rotorua building while Bergmann was visiting New Zealand for an architecture conference. Walking through the doors of Te Whare Nui o Tuteata for the first time, Bergmann says he was struck by the timber building’s warmth. “Being a finalist in the same category is a great honour. The Dubai award celebrates work that innovates the building industry and Te Whare Nui o Tuteata and Google’s building both achieve that.” The awards were held for the first time since 2019 in Dubai at the World Governments Summit. They featured five categories and attracted almost 3000 entries from around the globe. The Most Beautiful, Innovative and Iconic Building category recognises iconic, smart, innovative, human-centric sustainable projects that innovatively combine green design and construction practices with modern architectural excellence. The win adds to the list of more than 20 national and international awards Te Whare Nui o Tuteata has taken home since opening in 2021. The building’s name, meaning the great house of Tuteata, acknowledges Tuteata who is the ancestor of the three hapū who are the tangata whenua here: Ngāti Hurungaterangi, Ngāti Taeotu and Ngāti Te Kahu. The name was gifted to Scion by those three hapū. The three-storey 2000 sq m building was built using a diagrid timber structure using less material than traditional structures. Scion tested the strength of the diagrid components. The building has also been designed to be carbon-zero meaning it stores as much carbon as was emitted during its construction. Google Bay View opened in 2022 on a 42-acre site in Silicon Valley. It consists of three buildings totalling 1.1 million sq ft including two workspace buildings, an events centre and accommodation. The campus aims to operate on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030 and renewable energy and solar potential were prioritised. Globally, the built environment is responsible for about 40% of energy related carbon emissions. Bergmann says architects are increasingly finding new ways to incorporate timber into their multi-storey designs, but more education is needed. “We look at the operational energy of a building often but more important is the embodied energy, and that’s the building materials that we use. Fortunately, we are at a time when timber is an option,” he says. “There are structural advancements and pre-engineered wood manufacturing advancements happening alongside changes to building codes. High rises built using timber are getting up to 20 or 30 floors tall around the world.” Irving says winning the award is fantastic. “It feels amazing to be doing this kind of innovative work and to get noticed internationally. This building is achieving exactly what Scion is doing with its research – having an impact on the world stage.” Scion’s Forests to Timber Products general manager Henri Bailleres says the win solidifies the building as an “international timber architecture icon”. He says the building was carefully designed in a process involving engineers, architects, designers and Scion scientists, and collaboration was the key to success. “It’s an iconic building because there are a lot of elements attached to it. There are the Māori cultural elements, innovative design elements, seismic resistance, elegant design and maximal use of timber. “It’s a showcase technically and aesthetically of what can be done with timber,” he says. “It couldn’t have been done without having this synergy.” He says Scion led the sustainable building charge and this had flow-on effects, with the new Fisher and Paykel global headquarters being designed by RTA Studios using similar principles of sustainability and timber technology. RTA design lead Rich Naish accepted the award in Dubai and says it is a “great honour” to receive recognition on the world stage for innovation developed in New Zealand with partners. “What I believe has been recognised is a prototype for change to mitigate the effects of climate change in the construction industry, not just applicable to our region but the whole world. “Being present at the World Government Summit in Dubai provided acute relevance to me, the intent of this region of the world with UN Habitat to find immediate sustainable architectural solutions for our future.”

ABARES Outlook Conference is the place for ideas and evidence to progress issues that affect the agricultural, fisheries and forestry sector. The redesigned event for 2024 is hybrid and this year’s theme is Shaping the Future: Opportunities, risks, and resilience. Source: Timberbiz This reflects a commitment to explore the critical issues that will define the future of Australian agriculture, fisheries and forestry. The challenges we face today, such as climate change, evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and global trade dynamics, require us to adapt and innovate continuously. The conference is the perfect arena to discuss how we can navigate these challenges and seize the opportunities they present. “Attendees can choose to participate either in-person at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra or virtually from their homes or offices,” Dr Greenville ABARES Executive Director said. “Discounted, early bird registrations are now open, and we’re pleased to be offering flexible registrations so people can choose to join us in-person or online closer to the date. “We’re looking forward to people coming together for thought-provoking sessions and discussions, all geared towards advancing sustainable, productive, and resilient practices in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry. “The conference is also a great opportunity for participants to build new connections and collaborative working relationships.” ABARES Outlook 2024 will bring together 60 Australian and international speakers and panellists from industry and government in Canberra and online across 12 sessions. Delegates will dive into the diverse issues shaping the future of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries. ABARES outlook 2024 will be held on 5-6 March at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra and online https://www.agriculture.gov.au/event/abares-outlook Registrations are open.

US hardwood lumber exports to Australia increased by 22% in 2023 to a value of US$21million according to data from the United States Department of Agriculture. Source: Timberbiz While American white oak continues to dominate, its lesser-known cousin, American red oak, has shown extraordinary growth over the 12-month period. In 2023 Australia imported nearly 9000 cubic metres of red oak which is the most abundant species in the American hardwood forest. Readily available, and of a consistently high quality, red oak has similar characteristics to white oak in terms of strength and stability, but its more open grain means it is more suitable for staining which makes it a more versatile choice. “We’ve had a significant amount of interest in red oak from the savvier specifiers in Australia recently,” Regional Director for the American Hardwood Export Council Rod Wiles said. The American Hardwood Export Council is an international trade association for the US hardwood industry, representing exporters among US hardwood companies and all the major US. AHEC runs a worldwide program to promote American hardwoods in more than 50 export markets, concentrating on providing architects, specifiers, designers, and end-users with technical information on the range of species, products and sources of supply. In addition, AHEC also produces a full range of technical publications. “They recognise its quality and value and have anticipated the shift in demand resulting from the changes in native logging that came into force this year.” The new figures also show growth for other underutilised but available species including American cherry and American maple which have seen volume increase by 650% and 110% respectively. “Australia and New Zealand remain important markets for us,” Mr Wiles said. “Not only does the demand continue to be strong but the importers, manufacturers, designers and architects are very sophisticated in their understanding and use of different species. “They appreciate the advantages and limitations and also value the strong and proven environmental credentials of US hardwoods. We are delighted that our industry can supply raw materials that meet their exacting needs.”

Adding value to timber products on-island is essential to supporting local Tasmanian forestry businesses, jobs across the state, and regional and rural communities, according to the Tasmanian Forest Products Association (TFPA). Source: Timberbiz Speaking at the official launch of the first-priority in the TFPA Election Wishlist – Supporting Tasmanian Businesses in the lead-up to the State Elections in Tasmania on 23 March Chief Executive Officer Nick Steel said embracing a homegrown timber future policy is essential for the future prosperity of the state and its sustainable timber industry. “Encouraging on-island processing, growing the value of our products in Tasmania, and increasing regional and rural jobs is essential to supporting a sustainable timber industry, and must be at the forefront for all political parties during this election,” Mr Steel said. “That’s why today we’re calling on all political parties to stand with the timber industry and back our sustainable and respected businesses. There’s much government can do to ensure our industry continues to support the Tasmanian community. “As our resource moves to more plantation volume, we’re asking for the establishment of a long-rotation plantation forestry conversion fund, as well as grants to re-tool and re-skill our processing businesses – to make the best use of the new resource split,” Mr Steel said. “We’d also like to see a commitment to the development of new ways to process lower category logs in Tasmania, as well as a commitment to roll out the remaining funds under the On-Island Processing Grant Program to the whole industry. “Showing off the value of our state’s timber is essential, so we’re also asking all political parties to further commit to and fund the Tasmanian Timber Promotion Board. “There’s a lot that can be done to improve the timber industry in Tasmania, and we’re committed to working with all political parties to make sure the 5,500 Tasmanians employed by our businesses can succeed into the future,” Mr Steel said. The TFPA Election Wishlist can be downloaded here: https://bit.ly/4bPyfDF

In the wake of COP28’s landmark agreement and the global push for sustainability, the Australian construction industry is at a pivotal crossroads. The Buildings Breakthrough initiative, launched at COP28 with support from 27 nations, has underscored the urgent need to transform the sector. The building and construction industry is responsible for almost 21% of global energy-related CO2 emissions, and its impact must not be ignored. While Australia may not be among Building Breakthrough’s initial list of supporting nations, the industry must nevertheless brace itself for a net-zero future. Timber, being a natural carbon sink, has an important role to play a pivotal role in sequestering carbon dioxide. As the construction sector strives for net-zero emissions, the timber industry’s inherent capacity to absorb and store carbon positions it as a sustainable and low-carbon alternative, contributing significantly to the overarching goal. Large construction firms are embracing sustainability targets, driving a shift towards eco-friendly construction equipment. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are responding to the call for cleaner alternatives, moving away from diesel to embrace battery, hydrogen, and other environmentally conscious power sources. Battery-powered equipment not only reduces carbon emissions but also helps to reduce noise pollution, creating a more environmentally friendly construction environment all around. Hydrogen, emerging as a viable alternative, produces electricity through a clean chemical reaction, emitting only water vapour as a by-product. Innovations extend beyond batteries and hydrogen, exploring hybrid systems and advanced biofuels. Hybrid construction equipment, combining traditional engines with electric or alternative power sources, optimises energy efficiency while reducing environmental impact. Lower-emission generators, solar battery generators, and solar-powered light towers are becoming commonplace on construction sites, offering renewable and silent power sources. As technology advances and economies of scale make cleaner alternatives economically viable, the initial investment in eco-friendly timber equipment becomes a strategic move for long-term operational and environmental benefits. While sharing economy giants like Airbnb and Uber often steal the circular economy spotlight, the timber industry has long recognised the sustainable value of equipment sharing. Embracing a circular economic model, which focuses on reuse, repurposing, remanufacturing and recycling, can help to reduce over-production, over-consumption, and waste. Hiring equipment has emerged as a powerful solution within the circular economy framework, offsetting unnecessary emissions. Companies adopting this approach prioritise maintenance, care, and extending equipment lifecycles, contributing significantly to reducing environmental impact. Builders can adopt similar principles, making sure tools are used to their full life span before they’re disposed of responsibly. For suppliers to align with customer and government demands related to emissions and sustainability, they must take a longer-term view when investing in new products. Over time, increased demand will help to drive technology adoption, replacing older machinery and making eco-friendly options more accessible for the broader building industry. It’s time for timber industry leaders to spearhead the shift towards net-zero, creating demand for sustainable equipment that, in turn, drives technological advancements. By doing so, the industry can carve the way for a greener and more sustainable future for the entire Australian construction industry. James Oxenham, CEO at HRIA James Oxenham is the CEO of the Hire and Rental Industry Association (HRIA) and the Elevating Work Platform Association (EWPA). Having worked across the UK, Europe, and Australia, Mr Oxenham brings over 15 years of extensive industry experience to his role with the hire and rental sector’s peak industry body. With a background in management accounting, he has held pivotal roles at TUI AG Services Group (Spain), The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (UK), BB Retail Capital, and Aldi Stores in Australia. As the CEO of HRIA, Mr Oxenham drives industry excellence, focusing on training, operational efficiency, and safety standards. Under his stewardship, HRIA has experienced remarkable growth, establishing an EWPA Registered Training Organisation and pioneering digital training methods.

The news that US hardwood timber exports to Australia increased by 22% in 2023 with nearly 9000 cubic metres of red oak coming into the country should not come as a surprise to anyone. The end to native timber harvesting in Victoria and Western Australia has certainly had a massive flow-on effect. In Victoria alone, Australian Sustainable Hardwoods 30, 40-foot containers carrying American hardwood from the country’s north-east arrives in Heyfield. In 2017, ASH lost half its Vic Ash volume, which gradually diminished further to only three per cent of its supply in 2023. The Victorian situation has certainly amplified the significance of imported hardwood in Australia’s timber market. With restrictions on native timber, the demand for imported hardwood has surged, leading to a complex interplay of economic, environmental, and social factors. Conversely, Western Australia has continued with some native timber logging, albeit with stringent regulations aimed at sustainable forestry practices. While the WA State Government has implemented measures to promote sustainable forestry practices, questions remain about the long-term viability of native timber logging in the face of environmental concerns and shifting consumer preferences towards sustainability. The American Hardwood Export Council says that while it does not have data available linking the end of native timber harvesting in Victoria and WA to the boost in exports to Australia, “we think that that is a factor that has contributed to the increase in demand”. The importation of hardwood from the United States into Australia has obviously become a significant component of the timber industry. The demand for hardwood remains robust in various sectors, including construction, furniture manufacturing, and crafting. While Australia possesses its own native hardwood species, the allure of imported hardwood lies in its diverse range, quality, and sometimes lower cost. However, the reliance on imported hardwood has sparked debates regarding its environmental implications. Critics argue that the transportation of hardwood across oceans contributes to carbon emissions and exacerbates climate change. Moreover, concerns have been raised regarding the sustainability practices in the source countries. Despite certification systems like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), ensuring sustainable logging practices, questions linger about the actual enforcement and efficacy of such measures. Advocates of the ban argue that it encourages the exploration of sustainable alternatives, such as plantation-grown timber or innovative materials like bamboo. They contend that the ban serves as a pivotal step towards fostering a more sustainable and resilient timber industry, aligned with Australia’s commitments to combat climate change and preserve its natural heritage. However, critics argue that the ban merely shifts the environmental burden elsewhere, without addressing the underlying issues of consumption and resource management. They emphasize the need for comprehensive policies that tackle both the demand and supply sides of the timber industry, promoting responsible consumption while supporting sustainable forestry practices domestically and abroad. In navigating this complex landscape, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and environmental advocates must strive to strike a balance between economic interests, environmental conservation, and social welfare. Collaborative efforts towards promoting sustainable practices, investing in research and development, and fostering community engagement are essential to steer the timber industry towards a more sustainable and equitable future, both in Australia and globally.

Forestry England and British Airways have a one-year partnership to support planting 9,000 oak trees and help create an area of wildflower meadow at Wing Wood in Buckinghamshire. Source: Timberbiz Wing Wood is a new 51-hectare woodland Forestry England is creating to be an inspiring green space for local people, a valuable habitat for wildlife and a sustainable source of timber. Support from British Airways’ Better World Community Fund is boosting the number of trees being planted and has kickstarted funding for the wildflower meadow in the new woodland. Forestry England has already planted more than 109,000 broadleaf and conifer trees at Wing Wood and will plant another 23,000 this year. Thanks to British Airways’ support, this will include 9,000 oak trees, with British Airways staff joining Forestry England to begin the planting of these at Wing Wood. They also saw how the rest of the new woodland is being created including the preparations for the wildflower meadow, the first section of which will be planted in the spring. With kickstarter support from British Airways, Forestry England has launched a fundraising campaign using Crowdfunder. They are aiming to raise £16,000 to expand the new wildflower meadow at Wing Wood, which will cover just over half a hectare. It will blend with the woodland, providing essential food plants for pollinating insects such as butterflies and bees and shelter for small mammals and birds, creating a joined-up mosaic of habitats across Wing Wood. Later this year Forestry England will begin creating five new wildlife ponds, a community orchard and accessible paths. As part of the partnership, British Airways staff will volunteer alongside Forestry England teams to help look after woodlands and forests at four sites across England. The partnership announcement comes at a time of major national focus on tree planting, woodland creation and nature recovery, with Government targets to treble tree planting rates in England by 2024. Forestry England is planting at least 2,000 hectares of new, high-quality woodland in England by 2025. Several new woodlands are being created as Coronation Woods to mark the Coronation of King Charles III and leave a lasting legacy for people and nature.

A new study by researchers at University of Limerick has revealed a sustainable method of efficiently converting waste heat into electricity using Irish wood products, while minimising costs and environmental impact. Source: Timberbiz The groundbreaking study, led by researchers at UL in collaboration with colleagues at the University of Valencia, has demonstrated a method of generating electricity using low-grade heat recovered from lignin-derived membranes. Lignin, typically overlooked, is a sustainable by-product derived from wood in paper and pulp production. The study shows that these membranes can convert waste heat into electricity by utilising the movement of charged atoms (ions) within the material. This is a significant advancement as previous studies had only demonstrated this technology using cellulose from natural wood, and the new UL research has successfully applied it to lignin from waste wood – contributing to a more circular and sustainable economy as a result. Low-grade heat refers to waste heat generated at temperatures below 200 degrees Celsius. In industrial processes, 66% of the waste heat falls into this category, highlighting the potential of this breakthrough for developing sustainable heat-to-electricity applications. The NXTGENWOOD study, which was funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, has been published in the Journal of Advanced Functional Materials. Professor Maurice N Collins, Professor of Materials Science in UL’s School of Engineering and Principal Investigator at the Bernal Institute who supervised the study, explained: “Low-grade heat comes from various sources like waste heat in industries, heat losses in insulating systems, ocean thermal gradients, biomass fermentation, and solar heat. “Despite its potential, utilising low-grade thermal energy in energy harvesting applications has been challenging due to the lack of cost-effective technologies. “Our research explores the use of ionic thermoelectric membranes made from lignin, an underutilised by-product in the paper and pulp industry, offering a sustainable solution.” Lead author Muhammad Muddasar, a NXTGENWOOD PhD student based at the Bernal Institute, explained: “We have developed the first lignin-based membrane for ionic thermoelectric energy harvesting. “Our membrane is lightweight, easy to synthesise, and biocompatible, making it suitable for various applications, including thermal energy harvesting, temperature sensing, and biomedical sensors for health monitoring.” The UL researcher’s work on the NXTGENWOOD project comes under the umbrella of the Science Federation Ireland-funded Centre for Advanced Materials and BioEngineering Research (AMBER). The project is dedicated to developing new value-added applications from Irish wood. Professor Collins added of the environmental potential of the research taking place at UL: “While there is still room for further development in heat-to-electricity conversion applications, the study demonstrates that abundantly available lignin can successfully contribute to low-grade thermal energy harvesting, especially in scenarios where sustainability and cost-effectiveness are crucial.”

An interesting story has been emerging about two Merritt, Canada residents who have created a hybrid (diesel/electric) logging truck prototype that displays innovations and dedication to sustainability. It has taken them two years and over a million dollars (of crowd-source funds mostly from other truckers) to build their first two prototypes. Source: The Williams Lake Tribune Eric Little and Chace Barber (Edison Motors’ co-founders) were inspired to create their own electric truck since Tesla was so slow at releasing their electric truck as promised in 2016. The hybrid truck is a specially designed heavy-duty vehicle intended to replace traditional diesel-powered logging trucks. Little said much of the inspiration for the truck came from their mission to protect the environment. Also check out the You Tube videos which shows the truck as well as commentary by the builders about the problems they had to overcome to build and test the first prototypes. The electric motor had to be moved closer to the drive axles because the drive shaft and universal joints kept breaking because of the high torque from the electric motor. The prototype boasts features that make it unique and suitable for the rugged conditions of the logging industry. It is equipped with an electric motor and a diesel motor that promises more horsepower with a fraction of the fuel costs and emissions. The builders believe this version is the solution for now, as about only 10% of the industry can operate on fully electric trucks. For example, batteries are used when loggers go uphill with their empty trucks because they are still very light. Once loaded, more energy is produced going down the hill than you used going up. In order to meet the needs of the other 80% of logging truck situations that don’t always have logs on mountain tops for recharging batteries they have replaced a 15 litre diesel engine to a nine litre one and you can drive for about two hours off the batteries, depending on your load, and then the generator fires up for another 30 minutes. So you are only running a nine litre motor for a half-hour to drive off electric for two hours, instead of running a 15 litre diesel 100% of the time. While we wait for the delivery of these hybrid trucks we might start seeing electric motors on the logging trailers. Truck News April 2022 describes how FPInnovations is currently developing a hybrid trailer for forestry operations, with plans to replace a conventional trailer axle with an electrically powered drive axle. The project is reportedly worth around US$2.5 million and is funded by Natural Resource Canada’s Clean Growth Program. The fuel savings are claimed to be up to 15% with the trailers with greenhouse gas emissions reductions up to 40 tonnes per year. Another reported benefit to the trailers is nearly 50% better traction in slippery conditions. I think these hybrid systems are a good way to transition away from conventional diesel-powered trucks. The electric trailer prototypes will use regenerative braking to recharge the batteries, reduce brake fade, and increase safety in mountainous terrain for both log and biomass trailers. As Baber and Little point out in their video it takes time to find the weaknesses in any prototypes so the sooner we incorporate the hybrids into our truck fleets the faster we can make the improvements.

In log transport, an array of new innovations around electric, hydrogen and diesel-hybrid powered vehicles, truck automation and platooning continue to be rolled out. Right now, there’s huge interest being shown by local forestry and log haulage companies. Already, many firsts for fuelling log trucks in this part of the world are underway by some larger fleet operators. Source: Timberbiz Since last year’s major Wood Transport & Logistics event, new technologies and innovations that were unveiled in May 2023 have had 12 months of on and off-road testing and commercial operations under their belt. Now is the time to get meaningful results back on just how it’s all stacked up – operationally and financially. It’s for this reason and as overwhelmingly requested by last year’s delegates, a follow-up Wood Transport & Logistics event for log haulage, forestry and log harvesting companies has been set up by the Forest Industry Engineering Association. Support again has also been secured from key trucking associations from across the region. The event will run in Rotorua, New Zealand on 22-23 May 2024 as well as being live streamed to companies outside of Australia and NZ unable to travel into New Zealand to attend the event in person. For those attending in Rotorua, a conference, pre-conference workshops being run by the Log Transport Safety Council and Trimble Forestry, exhibitions (inside and outside the venue) and a 50th reunion of harvesting researchers from LIRO/LIRA – have all been planned around these dates. Registrations, program details and further information can be found on the event website, www.woodtransport.events  

Scion is rewriting the rulebook on tree propagation, ushering in a new era for forestry. It’s a world where trees are beginning their lives in a lab and where scientists are harnessing the power of AI and machine learning to boost productivity. Buckle up because the future of forestry has arrived. Source: Timberbiz The current approach to propagating forestry trees as varietals to deliver the very best trees into our forests is a labour-intensive exercise. Scion is partnering with Forest Growers Research (FGR) and industry on the Tissue Culture Techniques for the 21st Century Forests project which uses somatic embryogenesis as a reliable propagation method to ensure consistent results. Scion has a long history of growing plants from seed, and propagation techniques that create new plants from cuttings, grafting and layering. This project is exploring the potential of how we can create new trees by growing plant cells in culture in a petri dish – a process that doesn’t require seeds to germinate. Scientists working in Scion’s tissue culture labs are using a technique called somatic embryogenesis that is playing a critical new role in clonal propagation for woody plants. The research is advancing knowledge to help improve ways the forestry industry can rapidly grow new trees from proven and high-performing genotypes. Scion’s science lead on the project, Dr Jana Krajňáková, explains there is an urgent need for cost-effective, efficient tree vegetative propagation (bio)technologies for supporting the development of precision forestry, and delivery of forest products and services. The FGR-led programme is funded by the Forest Growers Levy Trust (FGLT), MBIE, and Strategic Science Investment Fund, and aims to produce a reliable and cost-effective tissue culture process by using bioreactors and other high productivity systems to quickly produce small, rooted plantlets. The work will make dramatic improvements in the delivery of genetic gain and future biotechnology developments into tree stock. Somatic embryogenesis is a process that takes immature embryos, formed after pollination, from green cones. These embryos are then induced to produce masses of cells which contain many tiny somatic embryos. The embryogenic mass that originated from one immature zygotic embryo is called a cell line. These cell lines can be encouraged to form mature embryos that develop into seedlings which are acclimatised to nursery conditions and finally planted in the forest. This process is an extremely attractive option for the rapid reproduction of genotypes with proven performance. Each tree species and cell line (genotype) within a single species requires its own set of instructions to get to the end goal – a robust plant. Ms Krajňáková stresses the complexity of figuring out the best conditions for a multitude of different cell lines. “Tissue culture can be considered advanced cooking – it is more art than science.” The current approach for somatic embryogenesis starts with a cell line and uses a semi-solid media for supplying the required nutrients. A potentially more efficient approach with liquid media in bioreactors is also being explored. Scion is the first institute to be investigating temporary immersion bioreactors for Pinus radiata. Using these bioreactors is a step towards automation and scale-up; instead of manually transferring somatic embryos between petri plates, the embryos grow in a liquid media in the bioreactors. Temporary immersion bioreactors of coniferous somatic embryos are not well studied. Scion has tried Pinus radiata, redwoods, and Douglas fir in the bioreactors; redwoods are the most promising at this stage. Scion tissue culture scientist Cathie Reeves has successfully developed a simplified propagation protocol that condenses the germination phase from five weeks to 10-14 days. The results showed greater survival rates and quality of the plants, which validates the shortened protocol – leading to reduced costs. Ms Reeves says “better quality plants mean better overall survival because the costs due to loss of plants is reduced”. “We are also looking at ways of further reducing the timing and even removing an entire step involved in the process, which would further reduce costs.” Ms Krajňáková says one of the key outcomes is the relationship and development of trust between Scion and our industry partners in working with cell lines. “Sharing the results with partners so far, our approach has created more openness,” she says. FGR Tissue Culture Techniques for the 21st Century Forests programme manager Russell Burton says the project is building the industry’s body of knowledge. “The more sharing we have, the more we all learn and the more New Zealand increasingly gains from the program.” In the current Pinus radiata somatic embryogenesis process, the resilience of tissue-cultured plants, when transferred to the nursery, is poor. Root systems are often a limiting factor for their clonal deployment potential due to scarcity of roots, cessation of their growth and unbalanced architecture. Machine learning wasn’t part of the original program but after the first year it was highlighted as an opportunity to improve productivity. A small pilot project indicated the promising potential for increased productivity and greater automation. Since that time, additional resources have been injected into the program in response to industry interest, and machine learning is now an integral part of the project. The team is embracing modern technologies and increasingly using automation, which allows for more accurate measurement of somatic embryos, helping the selection process and making it more efficient. The potential impact of this machine learning and artificial intelligence has been recognised by the forestry industry. FGR awarded Scion data scientist Sam Davidson the Young Researcher award for his machine learning work on this project at the FGR annual conference in September 2023. The scientific excellence of Scion’s tissue culture team was also acknowledged with the Science of International Quality award from FGR. This was based on the team’s ability to build key collaborations with world-leading international teams, and the number of scientific publications and speaking opportunities the team has produced in under four years.  

Australia is home to 134 million hectares of forests covering approximately 17% of the land area, and storing an estimated 10.5 billion tonnes of carbon, with 98.8% held in native forests. Source: Architecture & Design Of the 132 million hectares of native forest primarily dominated by hardwood species, two million are plantation, while five million hectares – 3.7% are accessible for timber harvesting. Each year, a nominal 78,000 hectares are carefully harvested, representing just six in every 10,000 trees, with the selective harvesting occurring exclusively in approved areas and followed by meticulous regeneration efforts, often involving replanting native species in much higher numbers than was removed. The Australasian Timber and Flooring Association (ATFA) says it is actively addressing the complex challenges posed by the timber harvesting dilemma across multiple fronts in Victoria (VIC) and New South Wales (NSW), following the permanent closure of forestry operations in VIC, and the suspension of forestry operations in NSW to establish 106 Koala Parks. ATFA also says it has been clarifying aspects such as wildlife protection, carbon sequestration, and the sustainability of timber products, particularly their ability to store carbon throughout their lifespan. With careful canopy management and forest renewal practices, younger trees thrive, contributing to healthy microclimates and stronger habitats, it notes. Australia’s native timber industry contributes significantly to the economy, generating $2.9 billion in gross revenue in NSW alone, while promoting job creation, supporting regional communities and bolstering Australian sovereignty in timber supply. Native timber harvesting plays a pivotal role in Australia’s sustainable forestry practices, effectively harmonising economic development with environmental preservation. Considering the multifaceted dimensions of the issue, ATFA has gone on the record saying that “only a balanced approach can safeguard both our environment and the livelihoods of many Australians dependent on this industry.” Over the next four years, both Federal and State Governments are allocating over $300 million to support the country’s forest industries. ATFA claims it’s initiatives “inspire innovation in these diverse sectors, fostering a harmonious balance between economic growth and ecological responsibility, while setting new benchmarks in eco-conscious design, and helping shape a sustainable future, where the choices made today resonate positively across industries and generations.”

Standards New Zealand has released a draft Technical Specification for Structural design actions – Part 5: Earthquake actions – New Zealand (TS1170.5) for public comment. The draft specification looks to provide updated engineering guidance to determine earthquake loadings when designing new buildings. Source: Timberbiz “Standards New Zealand and Engineering New Zealand were commissioned by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to develop a draft Technical Specification incorporating the science and insights gained from the updated 2022 National Seismic Hazard Model (NSHM),” said Malcolm MacMillian, National Manager, Standards New Zealand. “The draft Technical Specification has been developed through a robust process using the skills, knowledge, and experience of a committee of technical experts from across the building industry. We now welcome others to review the proposed draft and provide their feedback. Public comment will run for a four-week period. “Once published, a Technical Specification should typically be reviewed after three years to decide whether to extend its use for a further three years, revise it, withdraw it or develop it further to become a standard.” The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is encouraging people from across the engineering, building and property sectors to provide input into the public comment process being run by Standards New Zealand. “The current earthquake loading requirements for new buildings are not changing with the release of this Technical Specification. Once published by Standards New Zealand, it will be able to be used by designers on a voluntary basis as one way of demonstrating compliance with the performance-based Building Code, through an alternative solution” said Dave Gittings, Manger Performance Building and Engineering, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. “It’s important to note that the Technical Specification does not change the requirements of the earthquake-prone building (EPB) system. All seismic assessments, including voluntary seismic assessments, follow the same approach as for the national earthquake-prone building system and use the current standard NZS 1170.5:2004,” he said. The draft Technical Specification is a technical document. It has been developed to help engineers and designers voluntarily incorporate, into their designs, the results of new science in the NSHM. If the specification is followed, new buildings will be able to better withstand the range of earthquake shaking expected in different areas of New Zealand. “The draft specification is intended for most new buildings such as offices, commercial buildings, and apartments. Other buildings, such as dwellings and timber framed buildings up to two storeys’ high are generally not affected because a different design standard is typically used,” Mr Gittings said. “The use of a technical specification provides the framework to ensure that technical content being proposed is adequately ‘road tested’ by New Zealand engineers, with the opportunity for them to provide feedback before the information is published in a New Zealand Standard or considered for inclusion into the Building Code.” The draft Technical Specification 1170.5 can be found on Standards New Zealand’s website here. Public comment closes on 14 March 2024.    

Five Top of the South community organisations have been given a funding boost thanks to forestry company OneFortyOne’s community grants program. Kylie Reeves, OneFortyOne’s Corporate Affairs Manager explains that the company offers one-off grants of up to NZ$5,000.  Source: Timberbiz “We are particularly keen to support projects that relate to People, Ideas, Nature, Environment (PINE). We assess the applications every two months, giving consideration to our objectives and impact – this ensures the process is fair, but otherwise we leave it to applicants to let us know what they need most,” she said. “This funding round we received applications from a diverse range of projects. The five successful organisations were chosen as it was felt that they would all make a big impact in the community in their own way. “Since we launched in July 2021, we have supported 60 community projects in the region, contributing over NZ$160,000 in funding and building materials through the community grants program.” Below are the successful February grant recipients: Hearing Association Nelson Inc received a $5,000 grant which will help deliver their Dangerous Decibels program in schools. Pete Dowling, Manager of Hearing Nelson said this education program is the only World Health Organisation approved hearing loss awareness program in the world. “With the increased use of technology devices such as headphones and Bluetooth ear buds, it’s crucial for the younger generation to know how to prevent hearing loss. “Thanks to the OneFortyOne grant our interactive science-based program will be able to reach over 3,000 students within our region this year,” Mr Dowling said. EAP Marlborough received a NZ$1,800 grant which will help fund drama education for rural communities in Marlborough. Selena Tonks, Education Adviser for REAP Marlborough said the grant funding will allow them to deliver the drama workshops in six rural communities in Marlborough. “The performance will bring the community together as we use drama to learn about local Marlborough places and stories,” she said. “The programs will be aimed at tamariki and students and along with having fun and learning a new skill it’s also hoped it will help build student resilience and emotional regulation, leading to reduced stress and anxiety.” Tamaha Sea Scouts based in Mapua received NZ$1,430 to purchase a new inflatable tent and ground sheet. Amanda Brett, Group Lead, Tamaha Sea Scouts said a new tent will be a valuable asset they can use for their camps. “The funds will allow us to a purchase a modern style inflatable tent which will mean we can make the most of shorter camps as we’ll be spending less time trying to get all the setting up,” she said. “Having the youth able to go away on camps helps them build self-resilience. They make positive memories by cooking and playing together, going for bush walks and team building.” Valley Stags Rugby Club received NZ$2,000. The Valley Stags is the combined senior rugby team for Tapawera and Rangers clubs in the Tasman Rugby Union. There are also combined kids teams under the Valley Stags organization which includes players from the Murchison and Tapawera clubs. Dion McGaveston, Chair of the Valley Stags Rugby Club said rural rugby is at the heart of what they do, and we couldn’t operate without the support from local businesses like OneFortyOne New Zealand. “It’s fantastic to have them onboard,” he said. The Marlborough Fijian Community received NZ$1,800 which supports their Covenant Brothers Team, a dedicated group of rugby enthusiasts, to participate in the Marlborough 7s, hosted by Navigation Pasifika. For more information about our community grants, see www.onefortyone.com/community/grants The next funding round for New Zealand grants will be at the end of April 2024.

Bedford has officially unveiled new state-of-the-art equipment at its timber manufacturing facility in Mount Gambier, as part of a $7m investment in the region.  Source: SE Voice The upgrade is set to double production capacity, drive greater efficiencies and broaden timber processing services at its timber manufacturing facility. Bedford chief executive Myron Mann said the investment strengthened its commitment to building capabilities, partnerships and opportunities. “We are thrilled to officially launch major infrastructure upgrades and new facilities at our Mount Gambier site,” he said. “Our investment in advanced manufacturing demonstrates our long-term commitment to being a sustainable supply chain partner in the local community, taking waste timber and adding value and finishing services across a range of products.” Mr Mann said currently Bedford partners with local industry to manufacture products such as picket fencing and decking. “The introduction of new infrastructure including a filtration system is set to build on this and deliver additional environmentally sustainable practices into Bedford’s manufacturing process,” he said. “The introduction of a new filtration system at our timber mill demonstrates our commitment to an environmentally sustainable model of manufacturing, where nothing goes to waste. “The new system collects timber extracts from the manufacturing process, which is utilised across other industry, such as materials for duck nests.” Mr Mann said included in Bedford’s investment in the region was a new Learning and Experiences Hub, which was co-located on Bedford’s timber mill site and opened last September. “The purpose-built hub offers skill-based learning and experiences for the local community, with its core purpose to build learning and capacity across the region to support people with disability to live the life they choose,” he said. Bedford will formally launch its upgraded facilities and new developments to the Mount Gambier community and industry partners at an event on Thursday.

Responsible Wood Sustainability Manager, Matt de Jongh, recently visited Brisbane to strengthen partnerships and advocate for sustainable practices in the timber industry. Source: Timberbiz His agenda included meetings with key industry players and participation in the Sustainable Industrial Manufacturing Asia Pacific Conference (SIM-PAC) 2024. One of the notable meetings during Mr de Jongh’s visit was with Responsible Wood certificate holder Platinum Timber, a leading timber supplier committed to responsible and sustainable practices. He discussed the importance of Responsible Wood certification with Platinum Timber’s Director, Peter Kennedy. Mr Kennedy emphasised the value of Responsible Wood certification. “At Platinum Timber, we believe in the significance of responsible wood sourcing, ensuring that our products contribute to a sustainable and eco-friendly future,” he said. Platinum Timber has been a frontrunner in promoting environmentally conscious timber sourcing, and their dedication aligns with Responsible Wood’s mission to ensure the responsible management of forests worldwide. Jonathan Tibbits, Responsible Wood, Marketing and Communications Manager, emphasised the value of collaborating with an organisation such as Platinum Timber. “Platinum Timber not only promotes the sustainable and responsible use of timber, but has demonstrated this for many years,” he said. Platinum Timber can be found at https://platinumtimber.com.au/ Mr de Jongh also actively participated as a speaker in the SIM-PAC conference in Brisbane. He highlighted the pivotal role of responsible wood practices in industrial manufacturing processes. “Conferences like SIM-PAC provide a platform to share insights and innovations in sustainable manufacturing. Responsible wood sourcing is an integral part of creating a more environmentally friendly industrial sector,” he said. The SIM-PAC conference, as detailed on their website SIM-PAC, serves as a nexus for professionals in sustainable industrial manufacturing, facilitating discussions on eco-friendly practices and cutting-edge technologies. During his visit, Mr de Jongh and CEO of Responsible Wood, Simon Dorries met with Sebastian Jaimes from Rothoblaas, a global leader in providing sustainable solutions for timber construction. The meeting aimed to foster collaboration and exchange ideas on advancing sustainable practices in the timber industry. “Engaging with industry leaders like Rothoblaas is crucial for driving positive change. Together, we can elevate the standards of sustainability in timber construction,” Mr Dorries said. Mr Jaimes echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Rothoblaas’ commitment to developing innovative solutions that prioritize environmental responsibility. More information about Rothoblaas can be found at www.rothoblaas.com Mr de Jongh’s visit to Brisbane showcased the growing momentum in the timber industry towards responsible and sustainable practices. These partnerships and engagements underscore the collective commitment to creating a more environmentally conscious future for the timber sector.