German softwood sawmillers have called for a detailed overview of the market and accurate wood supply forecasts in the face of continued challenges facing the supply of logs.
Issues were discussed by mill representatives in the first softwood group meeting of The German Association of the Sawmilling and Timber Industry (BSHD) held at Pollmeier’s Aschaffenburg’s mill.
Participants agreed that the current scenario in roundwood markets of rising cutting capacities coupled with the pressure on raw material by changing forest management strategies should not be allowed to continue.
Members said it was “crucial” for the future to have a detailed market overview, including a survey of conservation and use restriction in the forests, as well as accurate supply forecasts.
A 1% annual loss of surface area in German coniferous forests also needed to be curbed. Adjustments were called for to ensure future mill production.
BSHD wants to see a cross-industry alliance formed to look at the issue, including the sawmilling, paper and roundwood sectors.
