Friday Offcuts – 25 July 2025
Click to Subscribe - It's FREE! Welcome to this week's edition of Friday Offcuts.This week, major research investment headlines the forestry sector. As reported last week, FWPA is backing seven cutting-edge projects focused on forest health, robotics, and invasive species. A Grower CEO Research Roundtable, set for August in Melbourne, will bring leaders together to align on future research priorities. Also in Australia, a new national log haulage code has just been released. In New Zealand, bioenergy advocates are promoting forest- based fuels as a cheaper, more resilient alternative to LNG - timely momentum ahead of October’s Residues2Revenues 2025 event. We also cover new innovations in mass timber, low-carbon adhesives from recycled plastics, drone-based beetle monitoring, and the discovery of rare orchids in Kaingaroa Forest. NZ’s domestic log market remains strong, despite softening export demand from China. Looking ahead, Rotorua will host the inaugural Bioeconomy Innovations 2025 conference in October, showcasing fibre-based, value-added solutions - from farm and forest to next-generation export products. And finally, another FIEA event, Environmental Forestry, has been rescheduled for 23–24 March 2026. Read these and more in another packed edition of Friday Offcuts.
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This week we have for you:
FWPA’s transforming challenges into opportunities
Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) is continuing its strong
commitment to advancing Australia’s forestry industry, announcing
a major investment in new research worth $8.75 million. This latest
round of funding marks another milestone in FWPA’s mission to
deliver impactful, industry-led solutions through collaboration.FWPA is also preparing to host the Grower CEO Research Roundtable on 6–7 August at the Crowne Plaza Melbourne. This strategic event will bring together key industry leaders to align on future research priorities. Together, these initiatives highlight FWPA’s commitment to driving innovation, tackling challenges, and building a more sustainable future for forestry in Australia. Investment in $8.75 Million of Forestry Research Approved Earlier this month, FWPA approved seven research proposals selected from the January 2025 open call. Chosen from 36 total expressions of interest, the successful proposals represent some of the most forward-thinking ideas in the sector. Proposals were reviewed by scientific experts, grower representatives, and an independent economist to ensure a strong return on investment and direct benefit to the forestry industry. The approved projects focus on remote sensing for forest health surveillance and resource modelling, robotics and automation, phytosanitary treatments for log exports, and invasive species management. All major commercial forest-growing regions are represented, with proposals led by research teams in collaboration with growers. FWPA will publish further details of the projects in coming weeks, once contracting is complete. “In evaluating the proposals, there was a strong focus on scientific merit and benefit to industry, and I thank the many industry members and independent scientists who contributed to the robust process,” said Jodie Mason, FWPA’s Head of Forest Research. These new research investments align with FWPA’s Research, Development, and Extension (RD&E) Investment Plans. These plans were created in close consultation with Australia’s commercial forest growers in 2019 and have been progressively updated to ensure all research is targeted, timely, and focused on sector priorities. By investing in high-impact research, FWPA continues to support sustainable growth, improved forest management, and long-term resilience across the industry. Collaborative Funding Model Secures Long-Term Impact The total $8.75 million investment includes a $4.45 million contribution from FWPA. This is made up of industry levies, voluntary cash contributions from growers, and matching funding from the Australian Government. In addition, industry members and research partners are providing further financial and in-kind support. This collaborative funding model ensures long-term, stable investment in research that delivers real value to growers and the wider sector. Grower CEO Research Roundtable: Shaping the Future Together FWPA’s Grower CEO Research Roundtable will build on this momentum by bringing the sector’s leaders together to set the future research agenda. Held over two days from 6–7 August at the Crowne Plaza Melbourne, the roundtable will include CEOs from across the grower network. Under the guidance of FWPA’s Jodie Mason and Sarah Nolet from Tenacious Ventures, the event will focus on identifying research priorities to address industry challenges and unlock new opportunities for forestry innovation. More >> Source & image credit: FWPA Bioenergy: A ready, cheaper alternative to LNG
The release of the LNG import investigation confirms
what’s already clear. LNG is an expensive energy option.
“The Bioenergy Association welcomes the investigation,” says Executive Officer Brian Cox.“But we urge the need for a broader energy strategy that includes all technologies, and especially bioenergy. Growing New Zealand’s manufacturing and employment base depends on a stable, secure, and sovereign energy supply. Without it, industry struggles, as energy can make up a third of production costs.” Cox highlights that the report indicates that LNG’s landed cost is around $18/Giga Joule (GJ), with retail prices likely exceeding $36/GJ. “In contrast, bioenergy heat from wood residues starts at about $13/GJ, almost 40% cheaper than landed LNG. “Electricity-based heat can cost as much as $50-$60/GJ for most users, and upwards of $35/GJ even for very large users. This only reinforces the need to use the right fuel for the right application. “There’s no shortage of biomass for energy use,” Cox said. In addition to forest and processing residues, New Zealand exports 20 million tonnes of low-grade logs annually, mainly to China. In energy terms this is a lot - it represents 160m GJ of gas. For context the whole North Island only uses about 25m GJ of gas. You would need less than 20% of those logs to meet that demand, and could use the rest to make biodiesel, increasing New Zealand’s energy resilience and sovereignty. Instead of pursuing costly LNG imports or building more power stations under the ‘electrify everything’ model, Cox says policy should support fuel-use efficiency and value creation. Bioenergy from wood residues doesn’t require growing energy crops. It’s a by-product of forestry and wood processing, creating jobs and new business. Integrating forestry into farms improves land management and farm viability. Importing LNG does none of this—and only adds cost. Source: Bioenergy Association of New Zealand  NZ industry update - July 2025
The commercial forestry sector remains in good heart, with very
good domestic sawmill demand and export sales to China and India
chugging along. Prices have remained flat to very slightly up
in Export logs, which is positive for this time of year.In Canterbury, at least, we have high enquiry levels from local Sawmills looking for more log and also wanting some different grades and price levels in the mix. It is excellent to be taking enquiry around pruned log, confirming strong demand in the appearance grade lumber sector. My spies tell me things are quieter in other regions. China is softening in terms of daily usage, now hovering close to 50,000 cubic metres compared to 60,000 last month. This drop is entirely expected, as the summer heatwaves ensure lower productivity and shorter days worked. Inventory has started to increase again, currently sitting at around 4.1m cubic meters, which is not particularly healthy. For readers who follow my report and review others, I am sometimes asked why, for example, I report inventory at 4.1mill m3 and others will be reporting a much lesser number. The difference is my numbers reflect all softwood logs across all ports. Others sometimes only report Radiata pine and some also exclude minor ports without explanation. Prices in the wholesale sector in China are weakening, confirming demand across the eastern seaboard is also weak. Movements have been slight thus far, but sufficient to ensure it is unlikely we will see the price of NZ logs landed in China increase in the near term. Most commentary suggests it with be mid/late Q3 (September) before autumn sales will pick up with any positive movements in prices likely to remain on hold until then. At the same time, the delivery rate of NZ logs to China has also declined, with winter, including heavy rain events, impacting productivity. Current log prices are at annualised lower levels also ensuring harvest of forests at some distance from ports remains subdued. The antics of the illustrious Donald Trump continue to impact trade, which again is likely to negatively impact demand and therefore pricing. It is great to see, despite the stupidities, wood fibre markets internationally are actually quite stable. It is also good to see an increasing number of Americans are realising their election foley which we can only hope leads to Donald’s reins continuing to be pulled in. For the moment, CFR prices (cost of log landed in US$ per m3) for NZ Logs in China are stable to rising slightly. Latest commentary suggests a general movement from US$110 to $113/114 per cubic metre A grade basis, with the quality of cargo and percentages of long lengths impacting final negotiations. It is looking like there will be 37 – 40 shipments from NZ in July, which is 5 to 6 less than normal. More >> Source & image credit: Laurie Forestry
Bioeconomy conference showcases NZ fibre breakthroughs
A new innovation conference focusing on biotech opportunities is gaining
momentum across New Zealand’s land-based sectors. Bioeconomy Innovations 2025 is a must-attend event
for industry leaders working with fibre products who are interested in
cutting-edge, value-added solutions—from farm and forest to next-generation export products.Advances in green chemistry are opening up exciting new uses for natural fibres. From turning kiwifruit into leather to extracting cellulose from seaweed, there’s a wave of innovation happening—both here and abroad. Several local and international speakers will present these developments at the October event. The event takes place in Rotorua, New Zealand on 21–22 October 2025, alongside Residues2Revenues 2025, which also focuses on the potential of wood residues and sustainable bioproducts. For full details and registration, visit the conference website. Historically, New Zealand’s food and fibre exports—many owned and managed by Māori enterprises and trusts—have been sold as raw commodities, with export costs limiting their value. But new technologies are shifting that model. Chemical processes now allow high-value extracts to be created from waste streams of these natural materials. Already, test labs around the world are turning products like seaweed and wood pulp into valuable biochemicals. The NZ Government is backing this shift with the creation of a new Bioeconomy Innovations Research Institute, supporting science-led pathways to higher-value, sustainable exports. Bioeconomy Innovations 2025 brings together global leaders, researchers and innovators to showcase the latest in sustainable bioproducts and fibre-based materials. The conference will explore eco-friendly alternatives to petrochemicals and highlight opportunities to shape a $30 billion bioeconomy. A standout case is the partnership between AgriSea and Crown Research Institute Scion, launching the world’s first seaweed bio-refinery near Paeroa. This facility will convert waste seaweed into high-value nanocellulose—a biodegradable, eco-friendly material with global potential. Learn more in the NZ Business article: “New hi-tech seaweed product could make Paeroa world famous.” Source & image credit: Innovatek .jpg) Building on the strengths of our storiesTimber Queensland is pleased to announce the Cultural Agility Program: Building on the Strengths of Our Stories program, a vital initiative designed to deepen understanding of Indigenous perspectives across Australia’s forest and timber industries.Held in partnership with respected First Nations leaders and cultural educators through Regional Economic Solutions, the two-day program offers a unique opportunity for industry professionals to embrace an exploration of Australia’s shared history, current realities and pathways toward reconciliation and meaningful engagement. “This is about building respectful relationships and recognising the value of Indigenous knowledge in shaping a shared sustainable future for our industry,” said Timber Queensland CEO Mick Stephens.  “Understanding cultural context isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s an essential first step to understanding the legacy of past historical experience and the ongoing impact on indigenous people and the importance of trust,” he said. The program creates a safe yet robust environment where participants are encouraged to move beyond rhetoric toward genuine understanding and collaboration. “This shared understanding can enhance workplace inclusion, strengthen community partnerships, and support land stewardship aligned with both traditional and contemporary practices,” said Mick Stephens. Participants will take part in traditional yarning circles and powerful storytelling to discover Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing. Mr Stephens said the Albanese Government’s recently released National Timber Fibre Strategy acknowledges that our industry has much to learn from First Nations Peoples, particularly in forest management and Caring for Country. “There is a sector-wide commitment to increasing understanding and engagement; respectful and appropriate engagement is the starting point. “Timber businesses that embrace cultural agility are better equipped to work collaboratively with Traditional Owners, unlock new opportunities in land management, and contribute meaningfully to shared outcomes.” The program will be held in Brisbane on 9-10 September 2025. More >> Source & image credit: Timber Queensland Mass timber's undeniable role in low-carbon construction
A new Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) released for
MASSLAM — a laminated timber product made using Tasmanian
plantation hardwood by Australian Sustainable Hardwoods (ASH) with fibre
from Western Junction Sawmill (WJS) — confirms its
potential as a low-carbon structural alternative for multi-res
and commercial construction projects.The findings arrive at a time when the role of embodied carbon in construction is under increasing scrutiny. The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), in its recent report Our Homes Weigh a Tonne, found that upfront emissions are now seven times more impactful than operational emissions over a building’s lifespan. While the report focuses primarily on Class 1a dwellings, it highlights a broader trend that applies equally — and arguably more urgently — to more intensive building typologies – Class 2 (multi-residential) and Class 5 (commercial) buildings. Upfront emissions from materials like concrete, brick and steel are now the dominant contributors to a building’s total lifecycle carbon. As the electricity grid becomes greener, early-stage material choices are becoming the dominant factor in determining a building’s whole-of-life carbon footprint. MASSLAM EPD: carbon reduction backed by process, not just product The newly released EPD for MASSLAM, independently verified under EN 15804 and ISO 14025, demonstrates a net carbon benefit of -748 kg CO₂e for every cubic metre used (A1–A3 stages, including biogenic carbon). This performance doesn’t just come from using renewable raw materials. It reflects a deliberate and integrated manufacturing approach:
In practical terms, this means a MASSLAM superstructure delivers a carbon benefit from day one. Traditional materials can require decades of operational savings to offset their initial impact. For projects targeting genuine decarbonisation, MASSLAM provides a substantial head start. MASSLAM is manufactured using plantation-grown hardwood from Tasmania — fibre originally intended for pulp production but diverted to long-lived structural applications. The MASSLAM plant is capable of delivering the superstructure for the equivalent of 2,000 homes per annum using modern methods of construction (MMC). More >> Source & image credit: ASH  New Log Haulage Code focuses on promoting safety
The Australian Forest Contractors Association has welcomed the
release of the Log Haulage Code of Practice, developed through a lengthy
engagement process with industry.The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator developed the Code to assist industry to ensure safety in the transportation of logs and meet the requirements of the National Heavy Vehicle Law. "Safety is the number priority for all of us in the timber industry. Having this Code to provide guidance for everyone within the Chain of Responsibility is a practical development in a complex operating and legal environment," AFCA CEO Tim Lester said today. "Importantly, the Log Haulage Code is not a compliance document, and it does not create any new obligations. It does step through the stages of log haulage operations to describe key risks that may need to be addressed and propose steps that businesses could take in response depending on their role in the chain. AFCA worked with the NHVR and other industry partners to make sure the contents of the Code were relevant to industry and the advice it provides is practical. There are considerations at every stage of log haulage activities, from contracting and scheduling, route planning and navigating forestry and public roads, through to receival and delivery. By working together we can make sure we protect drivers, other road users, trucks and loads to make sure haulage is both safe and efficient and so everyone gets home safely at the end of the day. "Our thanks to all AFCA members who provided input and guidance for the development of the Code. We will continue to work with NHVR and forest services business to increase awareness of the Code and opportunities to mitigate and address risks," Tim Lester concluded. The Log Haulage Code can be downloaded from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator. Source: Australian Forest Contractors Association (AFCA)  Eyes in the sky: using drones to safeguard our forests
UC researchers are using drones and satellite remote sensing to
track the health of eucalyptus trees from above and protect the future
of New Zealand’s plantation forests. Originally from Nepal, Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) PhD candidate Shiva Pariyar is breaking new ground with remote sensing research that could help reduce economic and environmental losses caused by pest damage in non-native eucalyptus species. “In New Zealand, plantation forestry is dominated by Pinus radiata (pine), which needs chemical treatment to make the timber durable,” Pariyar explains. “To avoid the environmental risks of chemicals leaching into the soil and water, New Zealand Dryland Forest Innovation (NZDFI) has introduced naturally durable eucalyptus species as a more sustainable alternative.” However, these eucalyptus trees, imported from Australia, are vulnerable to paropsine beetles, also known as leaf-chewing beetles, and other pests. “Leaves are the most important part of the tree. Damage or defoliation significantly reduces the tree’s ability to photosynthesise, affecting their growth and forest productivity.” One of his supervisors, Associate Professor Steve Pawson, says New Zealand cultivates over 15,000 hectares of eucalyptus, with the impact of paropsine beetles varying widely depending on the severity of the attack and the type of eucalypt production system. “Potential yield loss is estimated at $10 million per year, with control costs currently estimated at $1 to $2.6 million,” he says. Using drone-mounted light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and multispectral sensors, and high-resolution satellite imagery from trial sites across Marlborough and North Canterbury, he is developing a new model to detect and quantify the spatial extent, intensity, frequency and timing of eucalyptus defoliation both at the individual tree-level and across entire landscapes. “Human eyes can’t always pick up subtle changes in canopy greenness or stress levels, but the technology we use can. Ground-based measurements are costly, time-consuming, labour intensive and often impractical in remote or dangerous environments. “Without timely and accurate information, forest managers are unable to respond to insect outbreaks effectively that may cause long-term ecological and economic damage. My research outcome supports forest managers and policy makers to take both proactive and reactive measures to improve forest health and vitality of eucalyptus plantation.” His research supports the expansion of targeted plantations of 100,000 hectares of naturally durable eucalyptus in New Zealand by 2050. “If the trial is successful,” says Pariyar, “ this model could be used not just here but globally—wherever eucalyptus is planted as a sustainable alternative to chemically treated pine. “I wanted to build on my skills in the field of remote sensing and technology. And luckily, I found this opportunity at UC to explore and expand my theoretical knowledge and practical understanding including recent technologies. “UC has given me all the facilities that I need, including learning how to operate drones. Now I can prepare flight plans, fly drones and analyse data for future use.” Pariyar is currently participating in the Research Student Showcase, an annual event for postgraduate students that offers valuable training workshops, great prizes, and the opportunity to present their research to a broader audience. His project is supported by the UC Doctoral Scholarship, NZDFI, and the School of Forestry, with supervision from Dr Vega Xu, Associate Professor Steve Pawson, Professor Justin Morgenroth, and Dr Ning Ye at UC’s School of Forestry. More >> Source & image credit: University of Canterbury  Rare orchid discovery boosts conservation efforts
A major find in Kaingaroa Forest is reshaping what we know about
one of New Zealand’s rarest plants and showcasing
Timberlands’ commitment to protecting biodiversity alongside
productive forestry.Over summer, Timberlands, Wildlands Consultants, and the Department of Conservation teamed up to search for Gastrodia cooperae, also known as Cooper’s black potato orchid. This critically threatened species, with fewer than 250 individuals previously recorded nationwide, was first detected in Kaingaroa Forest in 2022 by a University of Waikato student. Following that discovery, Timberlands commissioned a dedicated search to map its presence more fully. Surveys in December 2024 and January 2025 confirmed the orchid’s survival across multiple young radiata pine stands, identifying 154 flowering stems — a significant addition to the known national population. General Manager Sustainability Colin Maunder says the discovery highlights Timberlands’ role as stewards of the land. “This is an important new record for Kaingaroa and New Zealand. It shows that conservation and commercial forestry can go hand-in-hand when biodiversity values are recognised and protected,” he says. Department of Conservation Technical Advisor for Flora, Paul Cashmore, says the findings are “really important” as there wasn’t good data on population sizes or distribution at any sites in New Zealand before. “We now know that this is probably the largest known population in New Zealand and will be a key site for the ongoing management of this threatened species moving forward. “What this and the previous survey confirmed is that commercial pine forests can be an important habitat for a variety of native orchid species. The management regime of these forests is crucial to their ongoing survival.” Forest management adapting The surveys also highlight the adaptability of native orchids. Remarkably, the orchids were thriving in young pine stands, where sparse ground vegetation and relatively open canopies created ideal conditions for the underground tubers and their essential fungal partners. By contrast, older pine stands with denser shade and deeper litter layers appeared less suitable. Timberlands is now using these discoveries to inform its forest management. In particular, the timing of thinning operations in affected compartments has been adjusted to avoid disturbing the orchids during their critical flowering and seed-setting period. Beyond Gastrodia cooperae, the surveys recorded a suite of other native orchid species, including the nationally vulnerable red bearded orchid (Calochilus robertsonii). This work builds on Timberlands’ long-standing partnership with conservationists to protect the native orchids of Iwitahi — an area within Kaingaroa Forest where, in the 1980s, the Taupō Orchid Society first discovered a surprising abundance of indigenous orchids flourishing under exotic pines. This led to the establishment of the Iwitahi Native Orchid Reserve, now the only dedicated reserve of its kind in New Zealand. “Timberlands has a proud history of working alongside conservationists to safeguard native species," says Colin. “Our approach recognises that production forestry and biodiversity protection can, and must, go hand-in-hand.” The success of this summer’s orchid survey is a testament to that collaborative spirit and is a reminder that even in the managed landscapes of production forests, Aotearoa’s precious biodiversity can find a place to thrive. Source & image credit: Timberlands EOI for economic chamber rep for FSC Standards Development Group
FSC Australia and New Zealand is seeking nominations for an economic chamber vacancy on the Standards Development Group (SDG), which is responsible for revising the FSC Forest Stewardship Standard for Australia.This vacancy follows the departure of Simon Cook, who has stepped down from the SDG after his recent appointment to the Board of FSC ANZ. We thank Simon for his significant contribution to the revision process. We are seeking a candidate who can broadly represent the interests of the economic chamber, which includes individuals or organisations with a commercial interest in the forest sector. The draft revised Standard is now open for public consultation until 31 August 2025, marking a critical milestone in ensuring the Standard continues to promote best-practice responsible forest management and remains fit for purpose. The Replacement Process The replacement process will be identical to when the SDG was originally constituted. Upon publication of this call for expressions of interest, applications will be open for four weeks, closing on 18 August 2025, whereafter, the FSC ANZ Board will consider applications and appoint the successful candidate. Selection Criteria Standards Development Group members are chosen for their experience and ability to represent key interest areas that are important for the revision and FSC’s values and policies. Eligibility for the Standards Development Group requires that applications include and demonstrate:
For more information on the Standards Development Group and the process for appointment, please get in touch with Stefan Jensen, FSC ANZ’s Senior Policy Manager. How to submit your Expression of Interest To submit your expression of interest, email a letter outlining how you meet the eligibility criteria outlined above, your CV and two letters of support from members of the economic chamber to info@au.fsc.org by close of business 22 August 2025. Source & image credit: FSC Australia and New Zealand Spotlight on innovation: The 2025 Innovative Wood Product Competition
As Aotearoa New Zealand looks to the future of forestry and timber innovation, WIDE Trust is proud to support the 2025 Innovative Wood Product Competition, a national initiative designed to spotlight the next generation of thinkers and makers in wood technology.Held as part of the annual University of Canterbury School of Forestry showcase, the 2025 Innovative Wood Product Competition brought together some of the most promising minds in forestry, engineering, and design. Students from across Aotearoa showcased innovative ideas to improve sustainability, efficiency, and technology in the wood sector. Bridging Education and Industry The student competition is more than just a showcase. It represents how academic learning can translate into industry-ready ideas, solving genuine challenges faced in forestry and timber production today. Many of the students involved were part of the Bachelor of Forestry Science programme at the University of Canterbury, an applied degree combining science, technology, and practical skills. The 2025 Innovative Wood Product Competition gave them a chance to test their ideas in front of professionals from across the forestry and wood processing sectors. “This is where we start to see the future of the industry,” said Thomas Lim, WIDE Trust Senior Lecturer at the School of Forestry. “Students bring fresh thinking, and competitions like this give them a voice, and a runway.” Celebrating the Winners This year’s competition was judged by a highly respected panel made up of leaders from across the forestry, engineering, and timber sectors. WIDE Trust is proud to recognise the following winning groups and their awards: Best Performance Award – $1,000 Team Truss Samuel Carter, Kelvin Milne, Joshua Nolan, Will Potter Second Best Performance Award – $500 Team I-Lam Liam Cassidy, Sophie Cusack, James Dyne, Henry Roil Innovation & Environmental Sustainability Award – $500 Team Nailed It Rebecca Craven, Demi Mant, Phoebe Naske, Molly Sinclair Competitions like the 2025 Innovative Wood Product Competition are made possible through support, both financial and academic. That’s where WIDE Trust comes in. WIDE Trust exists to support Wood, Industry, Design and Education in New Zealand. For students, this means access to grants, scholarships and project funding that can help cover fees, support research, or unlock practical learning opportunities. The 2025 Innovative Wood Product Competition is just one example of how education, industry, and trust-backed support can come together to fuel progress. With the right backing, today’s students become tomorrow’s innovators, researchers, and industry leaders. More >> Source & image credit: WIDE Trust Low-carbon adhesive made from plastic waste
Cleantech company NILO has reached a significant technical milestone on
its journey toward commercialisation. NILO has developed a
sprayable adhesive made from plastic waste that significantly reduces
the emission of formaldehyde and the carbon footprint of engineered wood
products.Rigorous internal validation testing over the last month has confirmed NILO’s formulation meets key performance standards for furniture-grade products, which make up approximately 60% of the global particle board market. NILO’s adhesive is derived from hard-to-recycle plastic waste streams, specifically polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), that would otherwise be incinerated or end up in landfill. These plastics are commonly used in products like agricultural and industrial shrink-wrap. Using a patented process, NILO transforms the plastic waste into an industrial adhesive that is clean, safe and cost-competitive. Developed by NILO’s Auckland-based team, led by Chief Technical Officer Simon Oakley, the adhesive can be used with a wide range of fibre sources to produce engineered wood products in a heated press. In keeping with NILO’s circular model, products made using its adhesive can be reground and reused as feedstock for new board production. Using NILO adhesive helps global manufacturers move away from hazardous traditional adhesives, particularly urea formaldehyde (UF), melamine urea formaldehyde (MUF) and methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), while lowering the overall carbon footprint of the final product. NILO adhesive can be blended with existing adhesive formulations, increasing the speed to market and enabling a strong customer adoption pathway. “Our aim is to ultimately replace UF, MUF and MDI adhesives entirely,” says NILO CEO Michael Maunsell. “But right now, we’re offering a real, workable solution that integrates with existing manufacturing processes, which is critical for the sector to make meaningful progress on emissions.” Adhesives are one of the most emissions-intensive components in the manufacture of engineered wood products, which are used globally in furniture, cabinetry, interiors and construction. Reducing the use of UF, MUF and MDI, which are derived from fossil fuels and associated with health, safety and emissions concerns, is a growing priority for global manufacturers under pressure to meet environmental targets. NILO’s formulation is compatible with standard production lines and designed to be used as a drop-in component, supporting the transition to cleaner, lower-emission adhesive systems. Independent third-party testing will take place in the coming months, with full-scale production trials at international facilities scheduled for 2026. Backed by global investors – IKEA invested in NILO in May 2023 and has a seat on the board – NILO is one of a small number of companies globally working to decarbonise the adhesives that hold engineered wood products together. Source & image credit: NILO  Forestry workers’ perceptions on occupational safety
Forestry is, by its very nature, a high-risk profession. This
study dives into what makes forestry workers feel safe (or unsafe) on
the job, comparing the perspectives of those in British Columbia,
Canada, and South Korea. Both regions are committed to
sustainable forestry, yet they approach timber production and safety
management quite differently. The goal? To uncover unique opportunities
for improving safety in each area.Researchers from the University of British Columbia gathered insights from 158 forestry workers (64 from British Columbia and 94 from South Korea), asking them to rate their safety perceptions. The findings revealed some interesting commonalities and distinctions. For instance, workers in both regions overwhelmingly prioritised their own safety and that of their colleagues, valuing a "safety-first" culture more than simply following regulations. However, when it came to how safety should be managed, the differences emerged. South Korean workers showed a preference for online training, while their British Columbian counterparts leaned towards hands-on, on-site support. Both groups agreed on the importance of mandatory certification for tree fallers, with British Columbian workers also highlighting the need for regular refresher training. Regarding broader safety investments, British Columbian respondents saw the expansion of heavy machinery as a key way to reduce accidents, whereas South Korean workers emphasised a more comprehensive approach to safety measures. Interestingly, both groups preferred incentive-based safety programs over punitive measures. By understanding these shared views and regional nuances, this research proposes tailored safety management strategies for British Columbia and South Korea, aiming to make one of the world's most hazardous jobs safer for everyone involved. More >> (report can be purchased) Source: Taylor & Francis Online Jobs
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and one to end the week on... some short puns
What's the thing that spins around at the front of a plane do? It's a fan to keep the pilot cool. If you don't believe that, just watch how much he sweats if it stops spinning. And on that note, enjoy your weekend. Cheers.  Brand PartnersOur Partners & Sponsors Friday Offcuts is made possible through the generous support of the following companies.
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