Matt de Jongh and Brett Stevenson, Group Forestry Resource Manager, NSFP at a NSFP certified sustainably managed private forest estate.
Neville Smith Forest Products (NSFP) is a trailblazer in Tasmania’s forestry sector, renowned for its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and responsible sourcing. During a visit to NSFP’s Mowbray facility in Tasmania, Matt de Jongh, Sustainability Manager at Responsible Wood, had the opportunity to explore the company’s operations and discuss their approach to sustainable forestry practices with Brett Stevenson, Group Forestry Resource Manager at NSFP. Source: Timberbiz
NSP has a heritage spanning 100 years and it is known for producing high-quality hardwood products, all sourced from sustainably harvested regrowth and plantation forests.
The company was among the first in the timber industry to embrace sustainable forestry practices, holding PEFC certification for their commitment to environmentally responsible harvesting.
“Our focus has always been on sustainability and innovation,” said Mr Stevenson. “We believe in using every part of the tree and finding ways to add value to the timber we harvest. This is at the core of what we do and drives us to continually improve.”
NSFP’s products are used across Australia in building, construction, and consumer sectors, known for durability and quality.
The company sources all its timber from Responsible Wood-certified forests, which ensures that the timber is sustainably harvested, and the forests are managed in a way that promotes regeneration and biodiversity.
“NSFP’s approach to sustainability is truly impressive,” Mr de Jongh said. “They take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, from how the timber is harvested to how they utilise by-products like sawdust and off-cuts. It’s a zero-waste philosophy that’s setting new standards in the industry.”
One of NSFP’s most innovative initiatives is its pellet processing facility at their dry mill in northern Tasmania. This facility converts waste from the milling process into high-value wood pellets for heating and cooking, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. This initiative earned NSFP the EPA Sustainability Award for Tasmania in 2020.
“Our wood pellet facility is a testament to our commitment to reducing waste and maximizing the value of our resources,” Mr Stevenson said. “By converting sawdust and off-cuts into pellets, we’re not only reducing our environmental footprint but also providing a valuable product for consumers.”
NSFP holds Responsible Wood certification, which assures that their timber products are sourced from sustainably managed forests. This certification is part of their long-standing commitment to responsible forestry practices, ensuring that their operations meet the highest environmental, social, and economic standards.
“Having Responsible Wood certification is essential to our business,” Mr Stevenson said. “It’s not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it’s about demonstrating our commitment to sustainability and giving our customers confidence in the products they’re buying.”
The company continuously invests in research and development, finding new ways to enhance the value of their timber products. As an example the TimberBuild brand transforms timber shorts, traditionally a by-product of the milling process into functional and beautiful timber panels.
“We’re always looking for ways to innovate and add value to our timber,” Mr Stevenson said. “Our TimberBuild panels are a great example of how we turn what would have been waste into a high-quality product. It’s about making the most of our resources and ensuring that nothing goes to waste.”
Certification is increasingly important in today’s environmentally conscious marketplace. For NSFP, their Responsible Wood certifications are a key part of their business strategy, ensuring that their products meet the growing demand for sustainable materials.
“Certification is critical for us,” Mr Stevenson said. “It gives us credibility in the marketplace and ensures that our customers can trust that the products they’re using are sustainably sourced.”
The company also works closely with local communities, indigenous groups, and other stakeholders to ensure that their forestry operations are not only sustainable but also socially responsible.
“Collaboration is key to what we do,” Mr Stevenson said. “We work with a range of stakeholders to ensure that our operations benefit everyone involved, from the local communities to the environment.”
For Mr de Jongh, this collaborative approach is a shining example of how the forestry industry can work together to achieve shared sustainability goals.
“NSFP’s partnerships with local communities and other stakeholders are a model for how the industry can work together to create positive outcomes for people and the planet.”
Responsible Wood plays a crucial role in NSFP’s operations, providing a framework for sustainable forestry practices and ensuring that their products meet the highest environmental standards.
“Responsible Wood certification gives us the confidence to say that we’re doing the right thing,” Mr Stevenson said. “It provides a clear set of guidelines that help us manage our forests responsibly and ensure that our products are sustainable.”
Mr de Jongh said that Responsible Wood is about more than just certification.
“It’s about fostering a culture of sustainability in the forestry industry. Companies like NSFP are leading the way, showing that responsible forestry is not only possible but also profitable.”
For businesses looking to follow in NSFP’s footsteps, certification under Responsible Wood or PEFC offers a pathway to demonstrate commitment to sustainability. With consumer demand for certified products on the rise, certification can provide a competitive edge in the marketplace.
“If you’re thinking about certification, my advice is to go for it,” Mr Stevenson said. “It’s a rigorous process, but the benefits are worth it. Not only does it help protect the environment, but it also opens up new opportunities for your business.”
