According to the newly published Wood Volumes Analysis Report,
Australia has reliable access to structural forest and wood
products to meet future demand.
The report provides an analysis of the long-run supply of and
domestic demand for wood products in Australia, particularly
those used in construction.
Executive Director of ABARES Dr Jared Greenville said that the
findings reflect the diverse timber supply available to
Australians and that demand is likely to continue to increase.
“Timber is a valuable resource, widely used in Australia’s
construction sector,” Dr Greenville said.
“Demand for construction related timber is expected to grow
by about 50 per cent by 2050 as the population increases, but
the final volume will vary depending on our future preferences
for housing types, with some houses using more timber than
others.
“On the supply side, the report indicates that Australia’s
domestic log availability is projected to increase by
approximately 70 per cent through to 2055 with a record
availability of 16.8 million cubic metres per year of softwood
sawlogs for residential construction in 2050-2054.
“Australian plantation managers are working hard to maintain and
optimise log availability, and they are working alongside mills
to increase the output and variety of timber products available
to the domestic market.”
International markets have been crucial to meet wood demand,
particularly in times of short-run growth.
“The long-term nature of forestry production can mean that
pressure is placed on supply if there is a short-run surge in
demand. In those times, access to international markets has
provided access to key wood product supplies, helping maintain
the momentum in domestic construction,” Dr Greenville said.
“Global markets are expected to continue to be a reliable source
in the future, despite the disruptions seen through Covid, when
global freight was delayed. With strong global log availability
and advances in technology and innovation we are expecting
global trade in forest and wood products to continue.”
Source:
arr.news
