A new resource for the timber industry, which is experiencing escalating energy, transport and raw material costs, has been launched in the form of Timcon’s new website.

Timcon (Timber Packaging and Palleting Confederation) has played a key role as an industry voice, highlighting the sustainable qualities of wood and re-inforcing the message that for a complete, cost-effective solution, timber remains the natural solution.

With the launch of its new website, Timcon has provided both timber packaging manufacturers and packaging purchasers with a comprehensive and informative industry tool. It has downloadable carbon fact sheets and the environmental benefits of using wood packaging explained in detail.

The site provides information on the latest industry developments and legislations, complete with compliance guidelines and a Q&A section. Most recently, the Timcon training scheme has been launched online, enabling members to advance their employee’s industry skills and knowledge through in-house training modules.

Timcon has also addressed the ongoing biomass debate, acknowledging the importance of the forest products cascade model while highlighting the importance of protecting the existing industry and woodworking customers through sustainable forest management.

Timcon president John Dye said: “Timcon is working hand in hand with plant health scientists to minimise the spread of pests and proactively take measures to preserve the world’s forests, and there are a growing number of initiatives encouraging people to think more seriously about wood recycling.

“It is our responsibility to advise our members of the latest industry developments and legislations and provide them with information and guidance to achieve the best results,” he said.

Through CEI-Bois, the European Confederation of Woodworking Industries, Timcon is working to raise awareness of ensuring that before subsidies are given to biofuel, there is enough resource to meet existing demand. A key point for consideration is that if limited resources are available, prices will continue to increase and supplies will be restricted.