Enabling a National Timber Circular Economy: Launch of the Timber Circularity Resource Map [Impact Case Study Report, May 2025]

Penelope Mitchell; Melanie L Harris; Martin Strandgard; Tripti Singh

doi:10.25907/01061

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Enabling a National Timber Circular Economy: Launch of the Timber Circularity Resource Map [Impact Case Study Report, May 2025]

Penelope Mitchell, Melanie L Harris, Martin Strandgard and Tripti Singh

University of the Sunshine Coast

2025

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25907/01061

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Abstract

Timber Circularity Project

Advancements in preservative treated timber and engineered wood products (EWP) have increased the strength, durability and longevity of timber, allowing greater high value use of wood in indoor and outdoor applications. However, the preservatives and adhesives that improve the performance of wood products also present major barriers to reusing, repurposing, or recycling this timber at end-of-life (EOL). With few alternatives to landfill or incineration, EOL timber products are currently underutilised, contributing to environmental impact and lost economic value. As a low carbon, renewable resource, timber should play a vital role in Australia’s transition towards a circular economy (CE) and a net positive future. The Australian Government have committed to a national circular economy transition1, which will require the reintegration of manufacturing byproducts and EOL resources into the supply chain. A CE model for Australia could add $26 billion in gross domestic product each year by 2035, while saving 165 million tonnes of CO2 per year by 2040.

Details

Title: Enabling a National Timber Circular Economy: Launch of the Timber Circularity Resource Map [Impact Case Study Report, May 2025]
Authors: Penelope Mitchell - University of the Sunshine Coast
Melanie L Harris - University of the Sunshine Coast
Martin Strandgard - University of the Sunshine Coast
Tripti Singh - University of the Sunshine Coast
Publication details: 7 pages
Publisher: University of the Sunshine Coast
Date published: 2025
DOI: 10.25907/01061
Organisation Unit: National Centre for Timber Durability and Design Life; Forest Industries Research Centre; School of Science, Technology and Engineering
Language: English
Record Identifier: 991239198202621
Output Type: Report

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