Friday Offcuts – 4 September 2026
Click to Subscribe - It's FREE! Welcome to this week’s issue of Friday OffcutsAustralia’s forestry industry has welcomed a major $150 million Federal Government investment, with funding aimed at supporting innovation, workforce development and the sector’s future. In New Zealand, the debate over climate policy and the ETS continues, with calls for immediate measures to stabilise the market. New economic data puts forestry’s contribution to the Tasmanian economy at $1.47 billion, while New Zealand members have unanimously backed a unified FSC governance framework for Australia and New Zealand. Safetree has also launched a new certification programme for forest management companies. There’s plenty more to explore, including changing hardwood export markets, the latest NZ log market, this year’s forestry award winners, XLAM’s proposed sale, conservation work, wildfire research and a new wood- based innovation from Canada. And finally, Residues2Revenues 2026 is now less than three weeks away. We’re already seeing a great turnout and are looking forward to catching up with many of you in Brisbane. Enjoy this week’s Friday Offcuts.
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This week we have for you:
Industry welcomes investment in forestry’s future [AU]
AFPA has welcomed the Federal Government’s Forestry Growth
Fund announcement today, which will help to build a stronger, more
sustainable and modern forestry industry for the future.Under the program, grants and initiatives will be delivered across five key streams focused on modernising the sector, supporting secure and well-paid jobs, strengthening innovation, securing sustainable fibre supply and increasing Australia’s sovereign capability. AFPA Acting CEO Richard Hyett said the $150 million in funding was a significant vote of confidence and step in the right direction for Australia’s forestry and forest products sector. “Forestry is already a major contributor to regional communities and the national economy, and this much-needed investment provides us with a vital opportunity to build on that strong foundation,” Mr Hyett said. “We sincerely thank the Government and Federal Minister for Agriculture Julie Collins for listening to industry, and applaud the fund’s strong focus on innovation, workforce development, fibre security and high-value manufacturing closely aligns with the funding priorities previously raised by industry. The $115 million for transformation and innovation grants will help industry adapt to the challenging and changing market. A further $15 million for the successful plantation establishment grants and $5 million to improve the integrity of the illegal logging laws will also boost the sector. “It’s really positive to see this program – which aligns with the Timber Fibre Strategy – been informed by industry, unions, communities and state and territory governments. This consultation has been crucial because the people working across our industry understand where the opportunities are and what is urgently needed to help forestry grow and thrive." Australia’s sixth largest manufacturing industry has an important role to play in our future, and we want to make sure we have the certainty and investment needed to keep growing and supporting communities. Read more about the new programs Source: AFPA NZ's climate crossroads [NZ]
While we all get our heads together to agree on that more
durable, more ideal solution, the Parliamentary Commissioner for the
Environment (PCE) also recommends immediate measures to buy
time - such as a temporary moratorium on new ETS forestry
registrations and the ruling out of "any new types of biological
offsetting in the NZ ETS, at least until the review has been completed
and decisions made on its recommendations".Indeed, the PCE's contention is that "it does not make sense to add additional supply to an already oversupplied market." The tension is real, and ever unresolved. The debate about gross versus net emissions reductions rages on, while others point out that less political meddling to date might have delivered a higher carbon price and more gross reductions. So whose fault is it anyway? Certainly, there's a caution worth sitting with: even those most focused on bold climate action must weigh the impact of their own words. Confidence in the ETS and carbon pricing is already fragile. Yet it remains an important guiding light for the capital required to green our infrastructure. The challenge for policy makers is to balance any reform with predictable and long dated, well signalled transition planning. The ETS is now far more deeply embedded, and far more complex, than a single price on a screen or a headline number of hectares planted. In our opinion, to treat it otherwise risks doing real damage to the entire system, to communities as well as investor confidence. Hard stops can cause big damage. More >> Source: Carbon Match NZ votes for unified FSC governance with Australia [NZ/AU]
A new chapter for FSC in New Zealand is taking shape, with New
Zealand-based members unanimously voting to join Australia under a
shared Australia and New Zealand governance model.This decision marks an important milestone for FSC across the region, solidifying a formal role for New Zealand-based members in FSC Australia and New Zealand’s (FSC ANZ) governance and laying a stronger foundation for expanding FSC’s work, engagement, and impact in New Zealand. Voting closed on Monday 3 August, with all ballots collated and independently verified by FSC ANZ’s Company Secretary. Every vote cast by New Zealand-based FSC members was in favour of the proposed model. This follows the passing of three special resolutions at FSC Australia’s AGM in May enabling the proposed cross-Tasman governance arrangements. New Zealand-based directors will be added to the FSC ANZ Board at the next Annual General Meeting to strengthen New Zealand’s representation and voice across the organisation’s Environmental, Social and Economic chambers. Importantly, this is just the beginning. FSC ANZ is planning to establish a dedicated presence in New Zealand, adding a new team member based in the country to work closely with members, certificate holders and stakeholders on the ground. This role will enable FSC ANZ to continue its work of building stronger relationships, supporting greater engagement, and creating new opportunities to advance FSC’s mission across New Zealand. “We’re really excited about what this next chapter means for FSC in New Zealand,” said Melanie Robertson, CEO of FSC Australia and New Zealand. “This decision has been driven and owned by our New Zealand-based members, and we’re pleased to have reached this point. We want to strengthen our relationships in New Zealand, be more connected to the people and organisations working there while increasing FSC’s impact. Having a team member based in New Zealand will be an important part of that.” This development reflects FSC ANZ’s ambition to work more closely across both countries while recognising the unique opportunities and needs of the New Zealand market. FSC ANZ will now work with the Board of Directors and FSC International to progress implementation of the new governance model, while continuing to engage with all members across Australia and New Zealand on timelines and the transition process. For FSC, New Zealand is a crucial part of the organisation’s future, and we are investing in building that future together with our members and stakeholders. Source: Forest Stewardship Council - Aus NZ  New report: Forestry's economic contribution to Tasmania {AU]
Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) has launched a new socio-economic analysis showing that Tasmania’s forestry industry makes a substantial contribution to the state’s economy, employment, regional communities and supply chains.The report, Economic contribution of the forestry industry to Tasmania, commissioned by FWPA and prepared by BDO with coordination support from the Tasmanian Forestry Hub, provides an updated evidence base for industry, government and regional stakeholders. It quantifies the value generated by forestry activity across softwood plantations, hardwood plantations and native forests, including direct economic activity and flow-on benefits through the broader supply chain. In 2023/24, Tasmania’s forestry industry contributed an estimated $1.47 billion to gross state product, equivalent to around 4 per cent of the state economy. The industry also supported 7,590 full-time equivalent jobs, including almost 3,900 direct jobs and a further 3,700 jobs supported through supply chain and household spending effects. Total output was estimated at $2.87 billion, with $660 million in household income flowing to Tasmanian workers and families. Kevin Peachey, FWPA’s Head of Built Environment and Statistics & Economics Programs said “this report gives industry a clear, evidence-based picture of the forest industry’s contribution to Tasmania. It shows the sector is not only a major employer and economic contributor, but also an important part of the regional supply chains, communities and businesses that rely on forest and wood products activity.” “FWPA invests in this type of work to support informed decision-making. By collecting robust data, economic analysis and industry insights, we help members and stakeholders understand where value is being created, where pressures are emerging and where future opportunities may lie.” The analysis highlights the strength and diversity of Tasmania’s forestry base. Softwood plantations generated the largest contribution by output, at $1.31 billion, while hardwood plantations contributed $812 million and native forests contributed $746 million. The report also shows the industry’s importance across regional Tasmania, with activity supporting jobs and economic value in the North-East, North-West and South regions. Importantly, the report looks beyond headline figures. It maps activity across the supply chain, including growers, primary processors, harvest and haulage contractors, silviculture, transport, wholesale, retail and export services. It also identifies non-timber values associated with forestry operations, including carbon credits, conservation areas and recreation-related uses. FWPA Statistics and Economics Program Manager Erick Hansnata said “the report gives industry a practical tool for planning and engagement.” “Industry can use this report to support investment discussions, regional advocacy, workforce planning and supply chain conversations,” Mr Hansnata said. “It provides a shared evidence base that helps explain forestry’s role in Tasmania’s economy and the benefits that flow well beyond the forest gate.” The report also forecasts total economic contributions through to 2025/26, helping industry interpret short-term movements and plan for future conditions. While activity is likely to have softened slightly in 2024/25, most measures are forecast to recover to, or exceed, 2023/24 levels by 2025/26. FWPA is an industry-owned, not-for-profit Rural Research and Development Corporation (RDC) for the forest and wood products industry. Partnering with the Australian Government and industry stakeholders, we invest in research, development and extension (RD&E) initiatives and marketing to improve the productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability of our industry. This report reinforces FWPA’s role in translating complex industry activity into practical intelligence that can be used by members, policymakers, regional leaders and supply chain partners. View Report Source & image credit: FWPA  Safetree launches Forest Manager Certification [NZ]
Forest management companies can now independently demonstrate
their commitment to health and safety leadership through a new
certification programme launched by Safetree.The Forest Manager Certification programme has been developed to recognise forest management companies that have the leadership, systems and operational discipline needed to manage risk effectively and support safe, productive forestry operations. Safetree Certification Manager Mark Preece says while forestry contractors have long had access to certification programmes, this is the first Safetree certification specifically developed for forest management companies. "Forest managers play a critical role in influencing safety performance across the contracting chain. This programme recognises that leadership role and provides independent assurance that robust systems are in place and working effectively." How it works Built around the internationally recognised Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) model, the certification combines a detailed review of company systems and supporting evidence with interviews and field-based discussions. Assessment focuses on three key areas:
"The programme is not only about providing recognition for strong management systems," says Preece. "It's about helping companies identify opportunities for improvement. And early assessments have highlighted practical opportunities for forest managers to pick up on, in areas like technology adoption, emergency management, lone-worker controls, leadership capability and contractor assurance processes. These can all make a real difference to standards in our industry." Laurie Forestry's experience Christchurch-based Laurie Forestry was among the companies that participated in the successful pilot phase of the programme. Managing director Allan Laurie says it was attracted by the opportunity to benchmark its systems and demonstrate its commitment to health and safety. "We thought this was an important space for us to get into. What came of it was a really thorough deep dive by an independent party looking at our business and all of its elements - policies, settings, questioning why we do what we do and how we do it. “And this caused a lot of thinking within our business and allowed us to fine tune some of what we do." Laurie says the process was well received by staff and prompted valuable reflection. He encourages other forest managers to take part and believes certification will become a valuable way of demonstrating capability and professionalism to clients and forest owners. "We're now a (Safetree) Certified Forest Manager with the Forest Industry Safety Council, and that's a far higher bar, and it's an industry-specific bar to reach. And people understand and recognise that as a qualification." Growing range of certification options The launch of the Forest Manager Certification follows the recent introduction of Safetree's Canopy Class Certification, which recognises forestry contractors demonstrating excellence in health and safety. Preece says the two programmes complement one another by recognising and encouraging strong health and safety performance throughout the forestry supply chain. "Together, they provide a clear pathway for continuous improvement and help strengthen safety leadership across the industry." Companies interested in learning more about the Safetree Forest Manager Certification Programme or Canopy Class Certification can contact Mark Preece. Source: Safetree Image: Mark Preece  Beyond Woodchips: Australia's hardwood value chain [AU]
For more than three decades, Australia's hardwood plantation
industry has been built on a simple but largely successful business
model: growing world-class plantation fibre for export to Asia's pulp
mills. It has underpinned regional economies, attracted significant investment and established Australia as one of the world's most reliable suppliers of hardwood fibre. But global markets are changing and have been for more than a decade. The export model that has served the industry so well is increasingly vulnerable. Recent export data points to more than a temporary downturn. It signals a structural shift in the global fibre market that has reinforced industry’s determination to pursue alternative means to capture value from the nation’s plantation resource. Australian woodchip exports have fallen by more than 10 per cent over the past year, with April export volumes declining 45 per cent compared with the previous month. While commodity markets inevitably fluctuate, the more significant story lies in changing demand from Australia's largest customer. China's pulp industry is becoming ever less reliant on imported Australian hardwood fibre. A prolonged slowdown in China's domestic housing market has released significant volumes of locally sourced fibre into the supply chain, reducing reliance on imported woodchips and enabling manufacturers to produce satisfactory pulp from a lower-cost fibre mix. Vietnam has the market At the same time, competition from Vietnam has intensified. During the first four months of 2026, China's imports of Vietnamese hardwood chips increased by 20.2 per cent to 4.054 million bone dry metric tonnes (BDMT), while Australian shipments fell 17.7 per cent to just 0.757 million BDMT over the same period. Vietnam now accounts for virtually all of China's growth in hardwood chip imports, with total Chinese imports increasing 11.4 per cent in early 2026. Meantime, Australian supply went backwards. The competitive landscape is also changing on price. Vietnamese hardwood chips averaged around USD175 FOB/BDMT in April, compared with Australia's average of USD166 FOB/BDMT. More importantly, Vietnamese suppliers have increased prices by approximately 25 per cent since September 2025 while remaining below the landed cost of Australian fibre in China. Australian export prices have risen by only around 8 per cent over the same period, reflecting weaker market demand and Australia's diminishing pricing power. This is a structural change For many years, Australian hardwood plantations enjoyed a clear competitive advantage. High-quality Eucalyptus globulus, dependable supply and Australia's reputation as a politically stable trading partner meant local fibre attracted a premium whenever global pulp markets strengthened. Today that advantage is eroding as Chinese manufacturers diversify supply sources, optimise fibre blends and reduce dependence on Australian imports. Taken together, these trends point to something far more significant than a cyclical downturn. They represent a structural shift in the global fibre market. The critical question for Australia is no longer whether we can compete harder in an increasingly crowded commodity market. It is whether exporting raw fibre is the highest-value use of one of our most important renewable resources. More >> Source & image credit: The Precinct project Ministry in gun for piles of destructive slash [NZ]
The Ministry for Primary Industries, which oversees
environmental standards for forestry, is itself in the gun for poor
compliance that led to huge amounts of slash entering Gisborne streams.
The Ministry is responsible for commercial harvesting of pine trees at Tokararangi Forest, 185km northeast of Gisborne, on land owned by the Māori Trustee (which acts as trustee to administer Māori freehold land and other assets on behalf of the beneficial owners). The forest sits on very steep land that is highly susceptible to erosion and sediment loss. Numerous streams flow through the forest and enter the sea, which at some points is just 400m from the forest boundary. In 2016 and 2018 the Ministry was granted resource consent by Gisborne District Council to harvest the forest, which covers some 1130 hectares. More >> Source: Stuff NZ log market update - August 2026 [NZ]
Market Summary: The New Zealand domestic market for sawn
timber continues to strengthen. Sawmillers report the best
winter demand for several years, with increasing forward orders and
improving residential construction activity providing confidence heading
into spring. An average 5% increase in sawn timber prices is planned for
September, while most processors will remove the existing fuel
surcharge.At Wharf Gate (AWG) prices for export logs were stable in August with no change from July pricing. However, ocean freight costs remain elevated, and the NZD has strengthened against the USD during August, both of which will place downward pressure on AWG returns. Offsetting these are modest increases in log prices in China, supported by stable daily demand and relatively low softwood log inventories. The Indian market remains subdued during the monsoon period. Weak sawn timber demand, unsold log inventories and port congestion are placing pressure on sawmill margins and limiting buyers’ appetite for additional logs. The weakening INR against the USD is adding further pressure to the landed cost of imported logs, with a more meaningful improvement in demand not expected until after the monsoon and Diwali periods. The Stand Forestry Log Price Index remains at $122 which is $2 above the two-year average and $3 above the five-year average. Domestic Log Market Most domestic log processors will remove the 2% fuel surcharge on domestic sawn timber in September, coinciding with an average 5% increase in sawn timber prices. A small number of suppliers are maintaining the fuel surcharge for now, although competitive pressure may see these suppliers follow the wider market relatively quickly. Sawmill managers report that the domestic sawn timber market continues to improve as building activity gradually increases. Winter demand has been stronger than experienced for several years, with forward orders providing increased confidence heading into spring. Without the disruption and additional costs associated with elevated fuel prices, market conditions would likely have been stronger again. The improving sentiment is supported by the residential construction pipeline. New dwelling consents have increased significantly compared with last year, led particularly by multi-unit housing. While a building consent does not immediately translate into timber consumption, the increasing pipeline of consented projects provides a positive indicator for residential construction activity over the coming months. Infrastructure activity is also providing increasing support to the broader construction sector. The latest National Infrastructure Pipeline shows $71.2 billion of projects currently under construction, with approximately $17.5 billion of additional projects expected to enter construction over the next 12 months. Civil and infrastructure contractors currently have stronger forward workloads than the residential and commercial sectors. Sawmillers are therefore increasingly optimistic heading into the traditional spring and summer increase in timber demand. However, this optimism remains tempered by uncertainty around fuel and other input costs, particularly given ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. More >> Source: Scott Downs, Stand Forestry Limited  NZIF honours forestry excellence at awards dinner [NZ]
The New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) has recognised
outstanding achievement, leadership and service to New Zealand forestry
at its 2026 Awards Dinner, held on 27 August 2026, at Larnach
Castle in Dunedin.The annual awards celebrate forestry professionals whose work is helping to strengthen the profession, advance sustainable forest management and support the future of the sector. This year’s recipients were recognised across four of NZIF’s major awards. Prince of Wales Sustainability Cup: Aidan Braid Aidan Braid, a Regional Forest Advisor with Te Uru Rākau – New Zealand Forest Service, received the Prince of Wales Sustainability Cup for his commitment to sustainable forest management, professional development and community involvement. Aidan Braid works across a broad range of forestry and environmental matters including native and exotic forests, biodiversity, pest management and the Emissions Trading Scheme. He also contributes to collaborative environmental initiatives and volunteers extensively in conservation, predator control, biodiversity protection and forest restoration. Forester of the Year: Peter Casey Peter Casey, Chief Executive Officer of Nateva, was named the 2026 NZIF Forester of the Year in recognition of his leadership, service to the forestry profession and contribution to professional standards and accountability. Peter Casey has played a significant role in strengthening the standing of Registered Forestry Professionals at a time of increasing scrutiny around forestry advice, carbon forestry, land use change and professional competence. His career spans senior roles across the private and public sectors, forestry governance, investment and carbon forestry. Kirk Horn Award: Phil Taylor Phil Taylor received the 2026 Kirk Horn Award, one of the most prestigious honours in New Zealand forestry. Presented every two years, the award recognises eminence in forestry and an enduring contribution to the sector. Phil Taylor’s forestry career spans more than four decades and reflects a strong commitment to stewardship, practical leadership and long term thinking. His contribution has included industry leadership, advocacy, forestry research, climate aligned forestry, workforce sustainability and the development of strong teams and future leaders. NZIF President Adrian Loo said the 2026 recipients reflected the depth of knowledge, leadership and commitment that exists across New Zealand forestry. “These awards recognise people who have made a real and lasting contribution to forestry, whether through professional leadership, sustainable land stewardship, research, industry service or by supporting the next generation. NZIF is proud to acknowledge their achievements and the example they set for the profession.” FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year: Hamish Scown The FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year Award was presented to Hamish Scown. Now in its third year, the award recognises a young forester who demonstrates strong professional commitment and contribution to the forestry community. The award continues to gain recognition within the sector and reflects the important role emerging forestry professionals play in shaping the future of the profession. Source: The New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF) Image: Phil Taylor XLAM commences process to seek new owner [NZ/AU]
The Hyne Group announced this week that it has commenced a strategic review of its XLAM Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) manufacturing business.Whilst XLAM has been the southern hemisphere’s pioneer and leading manufacturer of CLT, the division’s specialist focus on the commercial construction sector has limited alignment with the Hyne Group’s continued targeted expansion in Australia and New Zealand, nor does it fit with the long-term strategy of the Group’s parent company, James Jones & Sons Ltd. The review will assess all scenarios, but the preferred outcome is to secure a new owner with the capability, passion and commitment to build on XLAM's strong foundation, continuing to manufacture Cross Laminated Timber and providing specialised design and engineering services that support sustainable, carbon-storing construction throughout Australia, New Zealand and the broader southern hemisphere. The Group has therefore commenced a formal process to seek expressions of interest from suitably qualified parties within Australia and New Zealand, as well as North America and Europe. XLAM remains very well positioned to benefit from the growing adoption of ‘Modern Methods of Construction’ and demand for innovative building solutions. These include prefabricated and modular building systems, hybrid timber construction and vertical building extensions, where the strength-to-weight advantages and carbon storage benefits of Cross Laminated Timber continue to build market share and market penetration. Hyne Group Chief Executive Officer Jim Bindon said the Group remained optimistic that a suitable purchaser could be found while being transparent with employees, customers and stakeholders about the process. "Over the past 14 years, the XLAM team has established the business as Australia's leading Cross Laminated Timber manufacturer, delivering some of Australia and New Zealand’s most innovative and award-winning timber buildings while genuinely advancing the use of sustainable construction," said Jim Bindon. "Our clear preference is to see XLAM continue under new ownership, preserving its manufacturing capability, specialist expertise and the opportunities it creates for our people, customers and the broader construction industry." XLAM is a highly respected business with world-class manufacturing capability, experienced technical expertise and an enviable portfolio of landmark projects. It offers a compelling opportunity for an organisation whose long-term strategy is centred on mass timber, prefabricated and modular construction, and the commercial construction industry. The Hyne Group will work closely with employees, customers, suppliers and government throughout this process and will provide further updates as appropriate. Those who wish to explore this opportunity further should contact the Hyne Group’s General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Katie Fowden in the first instance on katie.fowden@hyne.com.au. Further information on both XLAM and the Hyne Group can be found on their respective websites. Source & image credit: Hyne Group Growing better together at Five Mile Wetland [NZ]
A simple idea is making a practical difference at Five Mile
Wetland, where Kaingaroa Tipu and Abodo have teamed up to support
predator control, protect biodiversity and give timber off-cuts a useful
second life.The collaboration centres on a new network of pest traps that will support predator control at the wetland, building on years of community-led restoration work including planting, weed management and habitat care in one of Rotorua’s best-known public wetland sites. Kaingaroa Tipu GM Sustainability Colin Maunder said the partnership reflects the organisation’s wider commitment to caring for the forest beyond the trees it grows. “Protecting places like Five Mile takes ongoing effort, and predator control is a big part of that, especially in wetlands where threatened bird species live,” he says. “This is about long-term stewardship – supporting healthier ecosystems as well as productive forests.” What makes this project especially fitting is the role timber plays in it. Timber manufacturer Abodo has repurposed off-cuts from its manufacturing process into wooden pest trap boxes for use at the wetland and around Whakarewarewa Forest, creating a simple example of circular forestry in action. Sustainably grown timber harvested from the wider Kaingaroa Forest Estate is returning to help protect the landscape it came from. Abodo Sustainability Lead Jade Harris says this practical action makes partnerships like this meaningful. “It’s a simple idea, but it shows how the right partnership can take a useful construction material into something that protects biodiversity as well,” she says. “Instead of becoming waste, these off-cuts are going back into the forest to do a job.” The traps, hand-crafted by the Men’s Shed, have been installed in the forest with Kaingaroa Tipu staff among those making weekly checks to monitor and report on the various pests captured. In the first four weeks, 220 pests were caught, including rats, hedgehogs and mice. Because Five Mile is a popular public site, the use of safe, toxin-free trapping methods is an important part of the approach. Red Stag near Waipa is one of many supporters of biodiversity protection in and around Whakarewarewa Forest and Five Mile Wetland. Site Project Manager & Electrical Engineer Anthony Gare also serves on the Whakarewarewa Pest Free Trust and says the latest collaboration is another tangible example of what can be achieved when organisations work together. “No single organisation can do this alone – biodiversity protection works best when efforts are connected. We know that small actions that are sustained can have a big impact.” Source & image credit: Kaingaroa Tipu  Prescribed burning linked to lower wildfire losses [AU]
A new research paper examines whether prescribed burning can reduce the extent and impact of wildfires. “Contrasting regional prescribed burning regimes effects the extent and impact of forest wildfire”, by John N. Cameron, David R. Packham, Glen A. Kile and Neil D. Burrows, analyses 60 years of data (1965-2024) from public native forests in south-west Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales.The researchers used a novel meta-analysis approach to compare the long-term effects of different levels of prescribed burning on total fire, the area burnt by wildfire, loss of human life and house loss. The analysis found an inverse relationship between the proportion of a region treated with prescribed fire and the area subsequently burnt by wildfire. However, there was no such relationship where the mean annual area prescribed burnt was less than 4%. WA had by far the highest level of prescribed burning, averaging 9.2% of the region each year, compared with 1.9% in Vic and 0.7% in NSW. The study found this higher level of burning was associated with a substantially lower proportion of the region being burnt by wildfire, as well as significantly fewer wildfire deaths and house losses. Per capita, wildfire deaths were 18 times higher in Vic and five times higher in NSW than in WA. The researchers attribute the increasing extent and severity of wildfires over the past two decades, particularly in southeast Australia, primarily to inadequate fuel management and a changing climate. They argue that, in a warming and drying climate unlikely to stabilise for many decades, fuel management needs to be intensified both near valued assets and across the broader landscape. Their analysis suggests that, in forest regions, at least 5-8% of the landscape should be prescribed burnt each year to reduce the area burnt by wildfire and help reduce wildfire losses. Read the full research paper (PDF) Source: John N. Cameron, David R. Packham, Glen A. Kile and Neil D. Burrows --(2022)2.jpg) Canadian ‘wood foam’ enters production [Int]
A landmark partnership between the Wet’suwet’en
First Nation and UBC is pioneering a made-in-B.C. solution to the global
plastic crisis, turning local forestry waste into biodegradable foam
packaging.Inside a new facility at Main Street and Terminal Avenue, wood fibre is moving through a production line and emerging, transformed, as a block of lightweight “wood foam.” For Dr. Feng Jiang, who first developed the material in his laboratory at the University of British Columbia, the moment is years in the making. For Reg Ogen, president and CEO of Yinka Dene Economic Development Limited Partnership (YLP) and a leader of the Wet’suwet’en First Nation, it signals a shift in the Canadian bioeconomy: a new economic relationship between Indigenous communities and the forests they have stewarded for generations. Millions of tonnes of plastic foam packaging end up in landfills each year, where they can persist for more than 500 years. This new facility aims to change that. By transforming wood waste resulting from logging or forest fires — material that might otherwise be burned or discarded — into biodegradable packaging and insulation, the partnership is turning a costly liability for the forestry sector into a high-value, sustainable product. Indigenous-led commercialisation The pilot plant is operated by DicinFoam, a majority-owned subsidiary of YLP, the business arm of the Wet’suwet’en First Nation. Dicin (pronounced DIH-chun), the Wet’suwet’en word for wood, reflects the company’s connection to both the forest and Wet’suwet’en culture. The underlying intellectual property is co-owned by UBC and YLP. “This partnership is a blueprint for the future of the forestry industry,” said Ogen. “Today’s forestry industrialization models have extracted value from all forest dwellers, communities, and our Indigenous cultures. Our project will maximize utilization to add value and respect to each harvested tree and land. Our wood-based biodegradable foam products will help protect Mother Earth for future generations.” From lab to pilot-scale production The plant converts softwoods such as spruce, pine and fir into a lightweight wood foam using heat, mechanical processing and minimal chemical additives. In packaging applications, the material is designed to break down in soil within months. The facility also produces insulation panels treated to meet building performance requirements, a market that currently relies heavily on imported wood-based products. The technology originated in the lab of Dr. Jiang, a professor in UBC’s faculty of forestry and environmental stewardship whose research focuses on turning underused forest biomass into high-value bio-based materials. His lab continues to support DicinFoam’s scale-up, testing new feedstock combinations and expanding the range of applications as the company grows. More >> Source & image credit: The University of British Columbia Jobs
Buy and Sell
And one to end the week on... AI Canada strikes back
If you’ve been following the latest Canada-US trade war (softwood lumber included), you’ll appreciate this one. A YouTube creator used AI to build a movie trailer about Canada striking back. It's totally over the top, strangely high-quality, and well worth a quick watch before the weekend. Source: demonflyingfox  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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