Understanding Forest Industry Challenges and Opportunities Canberra, Australia – The Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) recently hosted its annual dinner in the nation’s capital. The event provided a platform for Responsible Wood to connect with certificate holders and key industry stakeholders to discuss the role of sustainable forestry in a world that is facing challenges in meeting net-zero targets. The…
Supporting Regional Communities and Mental Health Advocacy Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Tasmania, a remarkable project is raising the profile of mental health, supported by a 2022/23 Responsible Wood Community Grant. Spearheaded by the Tasmanian Arboricultural Organisation (TAO), this initiative painted two trees in prominent Tasmanian locations, contributing to the national Blue Trees Project. However, it was more than…
New Guidance Note on the Certification of Ecosystem Services Responsible Wood is pleased to introduce new guidance that presents an innovative opportunity that enables certified forest managers operating under AS/NZS 4708:2021 to enhance their scope of certification by showcasing verified ecosystem services. This new guidance allows forest managers to make substantiated claims about the non-wood forest values and benefits that…
Celebrating sustainable Australian forests When it comes to mitigating the effects of climate change as well as the need for investment in carbon smart and renewable products there is no better time to celebrate sustainably managed forests than on this year’s National Forestry Day – August 22, 2023. On National Forestry Day, the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) emphasises the…
Sustainable Shopping: How To Know You’re Buying Sustainably Sourced Wood Products Sustainable shopping refers to the practice of choosing to buy products that have minimal, or no, negative impacts on the environment as well as other social aspects. Shoppers might consider the lifecycle of a product, from how the raw materials were extracted to its environmental and social implications. Sustainable…
What Is Reforestation and What Are Its Benefits? Reforestation is the process of regrowing trees in areas where their numbers have declined due to either natural or other factors. Examples include sewing seed or planting new trees after a wildfire or promoting the natural recovery of degraded forests. A number of factors might lead to the need for reforestation.…
Responsible Wood Showcases Certification & Circular Design St. Lucia Campus, August 9, 2023 – The University of Queensland’s Bachelor of Design program is making waves in the world of sustainable innovation with its new multidisciplinary offering, UQ DESIGN 2200. The course, which centres around the principles of the circular economy and design, is paving the way for future designers to…
Responsible Wood visits ForestrySA We recently turned our focus to South Australia, where ForestrySA is continuing with its efforts towards the social and community aspects of sustainable forestry. The visit, which shed light on the positive impacts of several recent projects, provided insight into ForestrySA’s responsible forestry practices and commitment to sustainability. Matt de Jongh, Responsible Wood Sustainability Manager, had…
Leaders Meet to Discuss Sustainability Journeys We recently had the privilege of attending the Melbourne Launch of LiSN – the Leaders In Sustainability Network. At the event, we got to hear from a great panel of speakers who lead sustainability for several key organisations and brands in Australia. The event provided an opportunity to network, brainstorm and hear from people…
Understanding Deforestation Deforestation refers to the process of clearing or removing forests or woodlands, typically done for more agriculture land, or urban expansion. It involves the permanent destruction of trees and the conversion of forested areas into non-forest land. A key distinction to note is that deforestation is when a forested area of land is cleared and the land use…