The European Union (EU) has presented a number of proposals that according to the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) can combine the need to protect forest biodiversity with social needs and a green economy. Source: Sustainable-timber-action

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures confirm a very weak quarter in new housing and major alterations during December 2011. Source: Timbernews

Elders will sell most of its forestry assets in the Green Triangle, Albany and Bunbury for more than $45 million. Source: Adelaide Now

The New Zealand Forest Owners Association (NZFOA) is developing a proposal for a commodity levy on harvested logs to support industry activities. Source: Bay of Plenty Times

Queensland's timber industry has asked the new LNP state government to consider allowing harvesters back into some native forests. Source: ABC Rural

Comments made by Tasmania’s anti-corruption watchdog saying it is a toothless tiger lacking sufficient powers to properly investigate the Lennon government’s possible collusion with Gunns to fast-track its pulp mill were reported by The Australian. Source: The Australian

A multi-year investigative report released by the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) says that since 2008 more than 20 US companies have imported illegally logged timber worth millions from the Peruvian Amazon. Source: AlertNet Thomson Reuters

In the North East Lincolnshire area of the UK the council has approved a biomass-fuelled plant that will be built at a cost of around £130 million. Source: Bioenergy News.