WoodCentral

🎥 Meet the Aussie Banker Now Building Island Resorts Out of Wood! 🏝️ Who would have thought you could develop two luxury tropical island resorts built entirely of Indonesian timber? In this WoodCentral special feature, Ken Hickson Hickson interviews Andrew Dixon, a former investment banker turned “accidental hotelier,” who has done just that with Nikoi and Cempadak resorts. 🔍 Why This Matters: 1️⃣ Sustainable Construction: Dixon insisted on using local materials such as bamboo, driftwood, laminated rubber wood, and recycled teak for the construction and furnishing of the resorts. This approach showcases a commitment to eco tourism. 2️⃣ Eco-Friendly Practices: The resorts conserve native rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs while catering to a limited number of guests. Energy needs are met primarily through solar PV panels, and buildings are designed to utilise sea breezes and ceiling fans instead of air conditioning. 3️⃣ Community Impact: Dixon established The Island Foundation in 2010 to improve educational opportunities for children in the Bintan Regency, Riau Islands. The foundation focuses on learning centres, local teacher training, and community engagement. 🌐Andrew Dixon is a member of The Long Run organisation, which promotes sustainable tourism globally. He's exploring innovative solutions like electric battery-powered flying boats and biodiesel from used cooking oil to reduce transportation emissions. 🔗 Learn more about Andrew Dixon’s sustainable island resorts and his contributions to responsible tourism: https://lnkd.in/g8FA5Zdh 🗣️ #questionforgroup: How can the principles of sustainable resort development seen in Nikoi and Cempadak be applied to other tourism projects globally? Share your insights! #sustainableresorts #ecotourism #timberconstruction #responsibletourism #sustainabledevelopment #architecture #communityimpact #islandresorts #environmentalstewardship #hotels #recycledmaterials #renewableenergy #sustainableliving #tourisminnovation

🪵 Sink or Swim: Sluggish Plywood Demand Hits Indonesia Hard! 📉 Indonesia, one of the world's largest producers of plywood, is facing significant challenges as a global slowdown in demand impacts the local timber industry. Thousands of workers in the forestry sector have been laid off, highlighting the urgent need for policy intervention. 🔎 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Job Losses in the Industry: According to the Association of Indonesian Forest Concession Holders (APHI), more than 8,600 employees have been laid off in the upstream and downstream forestry sectors due to declining plywood exports. The ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts have exacerbated the situation, leading to excess inventory and operational difficulties for many producers. 2️⃣ Call for Policy Incentives: APHI is advocating for policy changes to revive the forestry industry, including expanding the range of processed wood products eligible for export. By allowing sawn timber exports, the organisation believes it can stimulate demand for wood and provide added value to the processing industry, helping to stabilise the market and protect jobs. 3️⃣ Opportunities in Furniture Exports: Despite the challenges faced by the plywood sector, Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has reported promising export figures for domestic furniture products, reaching $1.2 billion in the first half of 2024. The intense interest in Indonesian furniture highlights the potential for innovation and adaptability among small and medium enterprises, which could serve as a model for revitalising the broader timber industry. 🔗 Read more about the current challenges facing Indonesia's plywood industry and potential pathways for recovery: https://lnkd.in/gpS7V8du 🗣️ #questionforgroup: What innovative approaches can the timber and forestry industries adopt to adapt to market changes and increase their competitiveness? How can policy frameworks support this transition? #timber #plywood #trade #indonesia #wood #woodcentral #woodcentralau1 #masstimber #trade #china #globaltrade

🌲 New Era: UN Specialist Takes Over as FSC Director-General 🌍 The Forest Stewardship Council has ushered in a new leadership era with the appointment of Dr. Subhra Bhattacharjee as its Director-General, effective October 1, 2024. She succeeds Kim Carstensen, who has skillfully led the organisation since 2012. 🔎 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Extensive Expertise: Dr. Bhattacharjee brings over 20 years of experience in public policy, climate change, and sustainable development, having previously worked with the United Nations and the Reserve Bank of India. Her strong academic background, including a Ph.D. in Economics, positions her well to navigate the complexities of global forest stewardship. 2️⃣ Vision for the Future: Under her leadership, FSC aims to leverage its extensive membership and collaborations to enhance global forest management. Dr Bhattacharjee emphasises the urgent need to address the ongoing climate and biodiversity crises, reinforcing that forests play a crucial role in sustainable development. 3️⃣ Continued Commitment to Certification: Established in 1994, FSC has been recognised as the gold standard in forest certification, with over 200 million hectares of forests certified worldwide. Dr Bhattacharjee’s appointment is pivotal. FSC certification will be vital in ensuring timber supply chains comply with upcoming regulations like the EU's deforestation regulation (EUDR), which will take effect in December 2025. 🔗 Read more about Dr Subhra Bhattacharjee’s appointment and what it means for the future of FSC: https://lnkd.in/g39gMgRB 🗣️ #questionforgroup: How can organisations like FSC better engage stakeholders to promote sustainable forest management? What role do you see for eco-certification in addressing global environmental challenges? #sustainableforestry #fsc #leadership #certification #sustainability #naturepositive #climatechange #woodcentral #woodcentralau1

💡Flooring, Timber Windows and Framing to be Funded by AFWI 🪵Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI) has announced the funding of eight groundbreaking research projects through its inaugural $5 million National Open Call for Research, marking a significant step towards advancing Australia's forest and wood products industry. 🔎 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Diverse Research Initiatives: The funded projects address critical opportunities and challenges in the forestry sector, including assessing new timber species for Australian sports venues, modernising timber windows to meet regulatory challenges, and enhancing fire resilience in plantations. This initiative aims to support sustainable management practices and provide climate change solutions. 2️⃣ Strong Government Support: This funding is part of the Albanese Government’s $100 million commitment to drive research in the forest and wood products industry. The total investment, which includes over $8.3 million in industry and research contributions, reflects a collaborative effort to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of Australia's forestry practices. 3️⃣ Cultivating Future Talent: The eight selected projects will address industry needs and support 36 early-career and higher-degree researchers, fostering the next generation of forestry research professionals. This commitment to education and innovation is crucial for the sector's long-term sustainability. 🔗 Read more about the exciting research projects funded by AFWI and their implications for the future of the forestry industry: https://lnkd.in/g_g-W7kP 🗣️ #questionforgroup: How can the forestry and wood products industry leverage research funding to drive innovation and sustainability? What specific areas of research do you believe should be prioritised for the future? #sustainability #innovation #woodproducts #afwi #woodcentral #woodcentralau1 #masstimber #wood #woodsolutions #australia

⏰ EU Wants EUDR Delay: 12-Month Extension and New Rules in Focus! 🪵 The European Commission is seeking a 12-month delay for the implementation of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), responding to concerns from global governments regarding the readiness and traceability of forest products amid the introduction of the world’s strongest deforestation laws. 🔎 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Regulatory Changes: If approved, the EUDR will take effect for large companies on December 30, 2025, and for micro- and small enterprises on June 30, 2026. The Commission plans to publish updated guidance to assist stakeholders in adapting to the new regulations, which aim to minimise the import of deforested products into the EU. 2️⃣ Global Implications: As the third-largest timber market worldwide, the EU's decisions will significantly impact global supply chains for forest products. The delay raises questions about the EU's commitment to its Green Deal, as environmental organisations like WWF and Greenpeace emphasise the need for robust action against deforestation. 3️⃣ Clarifications and Support: Alongside the delay, the Commission intends to clarify key terms related to forest degradation and operator responsibilities while introducing a country benchmarking system to categorise nations based on their deforestation risk. Enhanced international cooperation will support a transition to deforestation-free supply chains, particularly in economies that may be severely impacted. 🔗 Read more about the proposed delay of the EUDR and what it means for the future of forest product regulations: https://lnkd.in/gasYDmjc 🗣️ #questionforgroup: How can we ensure that regulations like the EUDR are implemented effectively while balancing the needs of global supply chains? What role should international cooperation play in combating deforestation? #deforestation #sustainability #eudr #globaltrade #woodcentral #woodcentralau1 #wood #timber #eu #europe #pulp #compliance #paper #pefc #fsc #agriculture #beef #farmer #politics #wwf #greenpeace #germany #usa #china #india

📜 Wooden Tablet Reveals Japan’s Oldest Ever Multiplication Table! 🔍 A remarkable discovery has been made in Japan, where researchers uncovered a 1,300-year-old wooden tablet believed to be part of the country's oldest known multiplication table. This find highlights the advanced mathematical practices of early Japanese society. 🤔 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Historical Significance: The wooden fragment, discovered by the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, was unearthed at the site of Fujiwara-kyo, Japan's imperial city from 694 to 710 C.E. Initially thought to be a practice tablet, advanced imaging techniques revealed fundamental multiplication equations inscribed in kanji, confirming its role as an educational tool. 2️⃣ Similarities to Neighboring Cultures: This multiplication table's layout, with its five rows and equations like “9 x 9 = 81,” mirrors the structure of Chinese multiplication tables from the Qin and Han dynasties. This resemblance suggests that early Japanese mathematical practices were influenced by those of China and Korea, reflecting a shared intellectual heritage. 3️⃣ Practical Applications: Senior researcher Kuniya Kuwata posits that the Emon-fu, responsible for security and administrative duties, likely used the multiplication table for practical tasks such as tax calculations and organising work schedules. This discovery sheds light not only on the mathematical knowledge of the time but also on the administrative functions of early Japanese governance. 🔗 Read more about this fascinating discovery and its implications for understanding Japan's historical mathematics: https://lnkd.in/gHsganfg 🗣️ #questionforgroup: How can historical discoveries in mathematics influence contemporary educational practices? What lessons can we learn from the mathematical traditions of our predecessors? #maths #culturalheritage #japan #archaeology #woodcentral #woodcentralau1 #wood #timber #japan #mathematics #preservation #history

🏙️ Redfern’s ‘Murder Mall’ Gets New Lease of Life with $500m Village! 🚧 The transformation of Surry Hills Village, formerly known as "murder mall," is nearing completion, marking a significant step toward revitalising urban spaces in Sydney. TOGAS GROUP $500 million development aims to support increased density while honouring the local community. 🔎 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Mixed-Use Development: Designed by architect Adam Haddow the new Surry Hills Village includes a diverse mix of amenities—supermarkets, office spaces, restaurants, and a hotel—creating a vibrant community hub beyond the traditional nine-to-five office model. This thoughtful design is crucial for fostering a lively urban environment. 2️⃣ Commitment to Sustainability: The project emphasises sustainable practices by incorporating environmentally friendly materials and technologies, such as energy-efficient buildings, water-saving systems, and green rooftops. The six-storey commercial tower features a mass timber core wrapped in salt-and-pepper brick, showcasing an innovative construction approach. 3️⃣ Addressing Urban Density: With the NSW government focused on building upwards rather than outwards, developments like Surry Hills Village are essential in addressing the housing gap and promoting infill development. This initiative not only aims to tackle population density but also to reduce inequality in the area. 🌟 Projects like Surry Hills Village set a precedent for sustainable and inclusive development as urban areas grow. Real estate and construction industry stakeholders should prioritise mixed-use designs that enhance community living and contribute positively to the environment. 🔗 Read more about the exciting revitalisation of Surry Hills Village and its implications for urban development: https://lnkd.in/g5t9pY7P 🗣️ #questionforgroup: How can urban developments ensure they meet the needs of local communities while promoting sustainability? WoodSolutions Craig Rawlings Arnie Didier Mass Timber Focus Group International Mass Timber Conference #urbandevelopment #sustainable #community #murdermall #redfern #surryhills #woodcentral #woodcentralau1 #construction #engineering #crosslaminatedtimber #glulam #timber #woodsolutions #construction #engineering #masstimber #redfern #sydney

🏗️ Building a Plyscraper – Atlassian’s Timber Habitats Drive Faster Build 🚨 The construction of Atlassian’s Central Tower, set to become the world’s largest hybrid timber building, is progressing rapidly in Sydney. This innovative project combines 30,000 cubic meters of mass timber with 4,000 tonnes of green steel and is on track for a grand opening in 2026. 🔎 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Innovative Construction: The hybrid design allows for an accelerated building process, with the project team jumping five levels at a time while infilling timber within each zone. This method enhances efficiency, enabling a quicker facade installation than traditional construction methods. 2️⃣ Sustainable Materials: The tower combines cross-laminated timber flooring systems and steel-and-concrete mega floor plates, built over a robust concrete podium and structural steel exoskeleton. Designed by renowned architects ShoP and BVN, the building will house Atlassian and set a new standard for sustainable skyscrapers. 3️⃣ Industry Impact: The ambitious project aims to redefine expectations for embodied carbon in construction. Atlassian’s investment in low-carbon materials reflects a commitment to creating a sustainable and attractive workspace for the tech industry, with plans to accommodate 5,000 occupants. 🔗 Read more about the exciting developments at Atlassian’s Central Tower and its implications for the construction industry: https://lnkd.in/gMbWm2mP 🗣️ #questionforgroup: How can hybrid construction methods, like those used in the Atlassian Central Tower, influence future building designs across the globe? WoodSolutions International Mass Timber Conference Craig Rawlings Arnie Didier Mass Timber Focus Group #hybrid #building #architecture #atlassian #woodcentral #woodcentralau1 #timber #wood #crosslaminatedtimber #woodsolutions #atlassian #netzero #engineering #woodworks #sydney #greensteel #concrete

🪵 Suspected Illegal Timber Used to Repair WA’s Heritage Icons 🏛️ The preservation of Western Australia's heritage sites is facing challenges as repairs are being conducted with exotic hardwoods due to a shortage of locally sourced timber following the native logging ban implemented in 2021. 🔎 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Heritage Concerns: The Heritage Council of WA is grappling with a significant shortage of WA-grown hardwoods like Jarrah and Marri, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of heritage-listed buildings. One notable project impacted is the $4.5 million refurbishment of the Carnarvon One Mile Jetty, which suffered damage from Cyclone Seroja in 2021. 2️⃣ Alternative Sourcing: To complete the jetty repairs, the Department of Transport was compelled to expand its search for suitable hardwoods, eventually settling on Merbau, a timber logged in Southeast Asia. This decision has sparked outrage among opponents of the ban, who argue that using exotic timber undermines the authenticity and heritage of WA's iconic structures. 3️⃣ Ethical Considerations: While Merbau can be sourced ethically, concerns remain regarding its sustainability. A 2007 Greenpeace investigation highlighted the risks of over-logging and illegal practices associated with this hardwood. The Heritage Council states that ethical sourcing and certification are vital when selecting alternative materials for heritage projects. 🔗 Read more about the challenges facing WA's heritage projects and the implications of using exotic hardwood: https://lnkd.in/gjT6GNzB 🗣️ #questionforgroup: How can the timber industry balance heritage preservation with sustainable sourcing practices? What strategies can be implemented to ensure the responsible use of timber in heritage projects? #heritage #sustainability #timber #wa #wapol #australia #construction #architecture #woodcentral #woodcentralau1

🌍 Treatment is a Matter of National Interest as Termites Spread in Fiji 🏛️ The Fijian government is taking decisive action regarding the alarming spread of termites and the associated risks posed by substandard timber treatment. Concerns growing about misleading labelling practices in the timber market have become a matter of national interest. 🔎 What You Need to Know: 1️⃣ Government Concerns: Alitia Banivalu, the Fijian Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, recently highlighted the critical need for proper timber treatment to extend the lifespan of wood products and prevent termite infestations. Many locally available timber species, mainly pine, are unsuitable for exposed and ground-contact applications without appropriate chemical treatments. 2️⃣ Traditional Knowledge vs. Modern Solutions: In a parliamentary debate, Semi Koroilavesau, a member of the Fiji First opposition, emphasised the importance of integrating traditional knowledge for timber conservation alongside modern chemical treatments. This highlights the need for a balanced timber preservation approach that respects innovation and cultural practices. 3️⃣ Urgent Action Required: With termite infestations spreading from Lautoka to regions like Vanua Levu, the government is focused on containing the issue and minimising damage. Proper labelling and treatment protocols are essential to protect the integrity of timber products and ensure consumer safety. 🔗 Read more about the ongoing challenges and government responses concerning timber treatment in Fiji: https://lnkd.in/gxBVyQWu 🗣️ #questionforgroup: How can the timber industry in Fiji enhance practices to ensure proper treatment and labelling of timber products? What role can education and traditional knowledge play in addressing pest infestations? #treatment #timber #sustainability #fiji #termites #woodcentral #woodcentralau1 #preservation #pacific