Sustainability in the Spotlight
Responsible Wood proudly showcased its role in promoting sustainable forestry and reducing embodied carbon through certification at the Sustainable Industrial Manufacturing – Asia Pacific Conference (SIM-PAC Live) held on December 2-3, 2024. The event provided a valuable platform to discuss the importance of forest management and chain of custody certification in transforming industries toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. In addition, Responsible Wood was named a finalist for the Primary Sector Sustainability Award, a testament to leadership in standards development and a commitment to driving positive environmental change.
Matt de Jongh acknowledged the award nomination:
Being named a finalist for the Primary Sector Sustainability Award is a great honour and recognition of the incredible work being done by Responsible Wood, and the certificate holders throughout Australia and New Zealand. It underscores our commitment to driving positive environmental change through leadership in standards development, certification and sustainable forest management.
A Leading Forum for Industrial Sustainability
SIM-PAC Live is recognised as the Asia Pacific region’s premier event for sustainable industrial manufacturing, drawing industry leaders, innovators, and sustainability advocates worldwide. Covering the full spectrum of industrial manufacturing—from mineral extraction to composting—the forum explores ways to integrate sustainability into entire supply chains. The event is key in promoting the transition to a circular economy by connecting passionate individuals with actionable solutions through networking events, conferences, and interviews.
In his presentation at the conference, Matt de Jongh, Responsible Wood’s Sustainability Manager, emphasised the pivotal role of certification in supporting sustainable practices across a variety of industries. Certified sustainable forestry offers a unique opportunity to significantly reduce embodied carbon in industrial manufacturing by ensuring materials are responsibly sourced and contribute to the circular economy.
Visual artist Elise Motalli captures the essence of SIM-PAC Day 1.
Insights from a Forester and Advocate
Matt de Jongh brought a wealth of on-the-ground expertise to SIM-PAC Live, shaped by over 20 years of experience in forest management and policy development. His operational career spans both native and plantation forest management with the Forestry Corporation of NSW, where he developed a practical understanding of sustainable forestry practices. Matt’s combination of operational and strategic experience underpins his passion for promoting active and adaptive forest management and highlighting its environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Certification & Sustainability
In his presentation, Matt explained how Responsible Wood certification is integral to sustainable industrial manufacturing. Certification assures stakeholders that forest-derived materials are responsibly sourced, fostering trust and transparency throughout supply chains. These principles align closely with the objectives of SIM-PAC Live, which seeks to drive sustainable practices across industries by championing collaborative, actionable solutions.
Matt de Jongh presenting on the strength of certification through the PEFC International alliance at a recent workshop.
Recognition for Leadership in Sustainability
Responsible Wood’s recognition as a finalist for the Primary Sector Sustainability Award further underscores its impact in advancing sustainability. This accolade highlights the organisation’s dedication to promoting certified sustainable practices that contribute to healthier ecosystems and a thriving primary sector.
The Role of the Forest and Product Industry
Matt de Jongh reflected on the role of the event:
SIM-PAC Live is an importan platform for discussing how certified sustainable forestry can lead the way in reducing embodied carbon across many industries. By connecting with stakeholders and showcasing actionable solutions, events like this help the forestry sector champion sustainability at every step of the supply chain.
For forest and product industry organisations, staying informed about advancements in sustainable industrial manufacturing is essential. As the global demand for low-carbon products and sustainable reporting grows, these industries are uniquely positioned to reduce embodied carbon and promote a circular economy. Engaging in forums like SIM-PAC Live ensures they remain at the cutting edge of innovation, fostering collaboration and driving market opportunities.
Visual artist Elise Motalli visually captures and summarises SIM-PAC Day 1.
As the Industry Looks Ahead
Responsible Wood’s participation at SIM-PAC Live underscores its commitment to engaging with industry leaders and advocating for sustainability. Events like this are pivotal for creating meaningful connections and driving actionable change. As the transition to sustainable industrial manufacturing accelerates, Responsible Wood strives to remain at the forefront, helping shape a cleaner, greener future for all future forest and wood-based construction product users.
