Megatrends in Australian Timber: Part 3

Welcome to part 3 of our series on megatrends in Australian timber. This series takes a look at how coming events and trends will affect the Australian timber sales industry. This has a direct effect on all of us here in the Brisbane area and we think this report is important for a variety of reasons.

A More Discerning Consumer Tightens Up the Ship

As consumers become more educated on our effects on the environment, consumers are demanding that timber come from sustainable sources. This has made its way up the line from consumer groups to environmental groups to businesses to governments. The net result is that more timber is coming from sources that are using responsible, sustainable harvesting and forestry practices.

In Australia, we currently work under the FSC, or “International Forestry and Stewardship Council,” and the AFS, or “Australian Forestry Standard.” The AFS is working hand in hand with the PEFC or “Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification,” which is internationally recognised.

The biggest change for commercial forestry is that they are being forced to adhere to higher standards. We see this as something they should be doing anyway: using sustainable and ethical forestry and harvesting practices. In Australia, the US and UK, it is now illegal to import timber that has been unethically harvested.

The paper industry is now requesting that their sources are FSC or PEFC certified. Many are also using recycled wood fibre in their manufacturing process.

Choosier customers are having two effects on the construction grade timber industry. The first is the same as those in other segments: most firms are using all certified timber. Another effect: furniture, cabinetry and retail fitouts are going to demand more timber as consumers become more fashion conscious and demand changes every few years.

What it Means to You

We think the price of timber is going to rise as these changes happen over the next 20-30 years. We are hoping the rise stays consistent with other economical inflation, especially wages. At any rate, we have the best prices for high quality timber right now. Call us to learn more: (07) 3888 1293.