Respecting Our Resource

Central to our product quality is our excellent Araucaria (Hoop pine) resource. We have long recognised the value of our resource and have therefore worked towards utilising the veneer to its fullest potential. For instance, every log is peeled to maximise the recovery of high grade veneer. Once peeled, the veneer is carefully graded (and sometimes re-graded) so that it can be used in the highest application possible. Even veneer pieces are recovered by jointing into full sheets - little is wasted.

Utilisation of Wood Waste

During plywood production, wood waste is an unavoidable byproduct. Recognizing this challenge, Austral Plywoods implemented a heat plant solution that transforms wood waste into valuable energy. This sustainable system effectively eliminates waste while powering other stages of our manufacturing process.

Solar Energy

Driven by technological advancements in solar power and increasing energy costs, Austral Plywoods invested in a comprehensive solar energy system. Our facility's extensive roof space accommodates 360 solar panels, with additional capacity for future expansion as our renewable energy needs grow.

Environmental Licence

Operating under an environmental license from Queensland's Environmental Protection Agency, Austral Plywoods maintains rigorous environmental standards throughout our operations. Our comprehensive Integrated Environmental Management System (IEMS) guides all onsite activities, ensuring sustainable practices and environmental stewardship remain at the core of our business.

National Pollutant Inventory (NPI)

Since its inception, Austral Plywoods has participated in the NPI, an inventory of the types and amounts of pollutants being emitted by industry throughout Australia. Participation involves regular testing of a number of substance emissions, with results reported annually. Past results have shown our pollutant emissions to have a ranking of 1 (on a scale of 1-100, where 1 is the lowest emission rating available).

Future Improvements

Minimising our environmental impact is a continual work in progress. We are frequently investigating and evaluating methods of improving our environmental performance.