Welcome to ForestTECH News!
Forestry is a physically demanding job, but it also relies on a growing understanding of the science behind our forests. This month, we’re looking at developments on both fronts.
We start with trials of wearable exoskeletons, exploring whether the technology can reduce the physical strain on pruning and planting crews, and whether it can stand up to the realities of working on rugged terrain. On the research side, new New Zealand findings reveal how much methane planted forest soils absorb, while an international study looks at how trees form wood as the climate warms. We also look at the ICFPA’s latest global sustainability figures.
A quick reminder, too, to put ForestTECH 2027 in your calendar. The event moves from its usual November slot to Brisbane on 9-10 March, followed by Rotorua on 16-17 March 2027. Registrations are now open, with programme details for both events due shortly.
Grab a coffee and catch up on the latest developments across the sector.
12 Oct 2026
Can exoskeletons ease silviculture work?
Pruning and planting are among the most physically demanding tasks in forestry. Workers spend long hours undertaking repetitive movements, working with their arms elevated, handling loads, and navigating challenging terrain. While these activities are fundamental to establishing and maintaining productive ...
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12 Oct 2026
Global sustainability progress report
The International Council of Forest and Paper Associations (ICFPA) released its biennial Sustainability Progress Report which demonstrates progress in seven key areas of sustainability. The 2026 report also highlights the role the forest products sector can play in helping meet ...
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12 Oct 2026
Study shows forest soils help offset methane emissions
Run over two years, the research looked at the methane uptake of soils in three planted forests – Orton Bradley Park and McLeans Island in Canterbury and Kaingaroa (New Zealand’s largest commercial pine plantation, in the Bay of Plenty) – ...
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12 Oct 2026
Faster wood formation matters more than longer growing seasons in a warming climate
In non-tropical forests, cold winters hinder tree growth. There, climate warming prolongs the period during which trees absorb carbon through photosynthesis and store it in wood, known as the growing season. This could potentially mitigate further climate change as wood ...
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Upcoming Events
WoodWorks 2026 Conference
28-29 October 2026, Hastings, New Zealand
Growing the capability & use of wood in commercial and multi-residential buildings
HarvestTECH & Wood Transport Logistics 2026
10-11 November 2026, Rotorua, New Zealand
Smarter Technologies to Improve our Industry
ForestTECH 2027
9-10 March 2027, Brisbane, Australia
16-17 March 2027, Rotorua, New Zealand
For 20 years, ForestTECH has been the 'must-attend' technology event for forest resource managers, remote sensing, GIS and mapping specialists, inventory foresters, and tree crop and forest establishment managers from across Australasia.
Environmental Forestry 2027
25-26 May 2027, Rotorua, New Zealand
This series is dedicated to advancing sustainable forestry practices and environmental stewardship within the sector.
Woodflow & Logistics 2027
3-4 August 2027, Brisbane, Australia
Our Woodflow & Logistics conferences have served as a key forum for professionals in the forestry and wood harvesting and log transport sectors across Australasia
Carbon Forestry 2027
17-18 August 2027, Rotorua, New Zealand
This event covers key issues of interest to local and international forest managers and investors. Industry leaders and government will discuss government policy, ETS regulation, markets, certification, voluntary carbon markets - including biodiversity and nature-based credits.
Bioeconomy Innovations 2027
14-15 September 2027, Rotorua, New Zealand
Join industry leaders, researchers, and innovators, where the latest advancements in sustainable bioproducts and forest-based materials come to life. Be part of shaping a $30 billion bioeconomy.
Residues2Revenues 2027
14-15 September 2027, Rotorua, New Zealand
We have the potential to transform the forestry sector into a provider of biofuels, bioenergy and a range of renewable bioproducts. This event highlights the real value of wood residues.
WoodWorks 2027 Conference
19-20 October 2027, TBC, New Zealand
Growing the capability & use of wood in commercial and multi-residential buildings