As projects seek avenues to meet increasingly stringent carbon reduction goals, the recent 5th International Conference on Timber Bridges (5ICTB) in Rotorua, New Zealand, put a spotlight on the important role of certification in sustainable timber infrastructure.
Marking the first time the global conference has been held in the southern hemisphere, the event brought together engineers, researchers, timber industry professionals and sustainability advocates from around the world to explore the future of timber bridges, including Responsible Wood’s own Sustainability Manager, Matt de Jongh.
With supply of timber bridge components important business for many Responsible Wood members, attending the event represented a key opportunity for ensuring timber bridge procurement incorporates credible sustainability credentials.
“Certification demonstrates that timber comes from sustainably managed forests and supports ethical, transparent, and climate-positive supply chains,” said Matt. “Responsible Wood, as the Australian national governing body for PEFC, plays a key role in assuring that the timber used in bridges is sourced responsibly.”
With renewed support for timber bridges, the sustainable infrastructure option is fast emerging as a high-value opportunity for certified hardwood and engineered timber products.
“It’s not just about building with timber; it’s about building trust in timber. Certification gives designers, engineers, and governments the confidence to specify sustainable wood with full visibility of its origin and impacts.”
Professor Tripti Singh, a key member of the 5ICTB organising committee and Director of the National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life at the University of the Sunshine Coast, praised both the international turnout and the calibre of discussion at the event.
“The conference has been an incredible opportunity to connect global expertise with the local momentum we’re seeing in Australasia around timber infrastructure,” Dr Singh said. “It’s especially important for future engineers to see what’s possible with certified, durable timber – something Matt and Responsible Wood actively promote.”
