Queensland event
There is still a lot of misinformation and misconceptions about forestry in general, making the topics of setting sustainability standards, certification, and implementing sustainable forest management systems difficult to explain. Source: Timberbiz
Victorian participants
To help address this, Responsible Wood organised field trips in Victoria and Queensland, providing a valuable opportunity to observe sustainability and real forestry practices in action. These field trips aim to showcase the importance of responsible supply chains and promote sustainable forest management.
The recent field trips, attended by architects, designers, builders, manufacturers, and wholesalers offered firsthand experiences that highlight the field trip partners’ commitment to driving positive change in the forestry industry.
Simon Dorries, CEO of Responsible Wood, expressed his satisfaction with the field trips, stating that they represent the Responsible Wood’s dedication to promoting sustainable practices and providing valuable insights for the field trip attendees.
The field trips immerse participants in the real world of sustainable forest management, allowing them to witness the thorough planning and operational execution of forest management by organisations including VicForests in Victoria and HQ Plantations and DAF Forestry in Queensland.
Participants had the opportunity to observe the use of advanced technologies in monitoring and protecting biodiversity, as well as the implementation of best practice, science-based forest management techniques.
The positive feedback received from participants speaks to the dedication and commitment demonstrated by these organisations in ensuring the long-term health, sustainability, and productivity of forests.
A significant aspect of the field trips involves tracing the journey of timber from the forest to the end consumer.
Participants gained an insider’s perspective of a responsible wood certified supply chain, witnessing the transparency and accountability maintained at each stage by Australian Sustainable Hardwoods (ASH) in Victoria and Hyne Timber in Queensland. This firsthand experience is aimed at helping inform participants to help them make informed choices as users and specifiers of timber products.
Responsible Wood Sustainability Manager, Matt de Jongh, emphasised that the field trips shed light on the positive impact of responsible forest management on biodiversity. Participants observed the integration of protective measures for flora and fauna, the preservation of critical habitats, and the protection of forest soils and water.
“Witnessing these processes fosters a deep understanding of the crucial connection between thriving ecosystems and sustainable wood production,” said Matt de Jongh.
These field trips represent an important milestone for Responsible Wood, actively engaging architects, designers, builders, manufacturers, and wholesalers in the pursuit of sustainable and ethically sourced timber. Building upon the success of these field trips, Responsible Wood aims to conduct similar trips across Australia throughout the year. By providing opportunities for industry professionals and stakeholders to witness sustainable forestry practices in action, Responsible Wood aims to continue to inspire and educate, showcasing a collective commitment to a sustainable industry with products that are around for many generations to come.
