Our Environment

Sustainability in Motion

PNGFP is committed to building a better future through sustainable manufacturing practices. All timber is sourced from renewable pine plantations managed by the PNG Forest Authority, with a focus on minimising waste to achieve maximum utilisation of the wood fibre.

Traditionally, plywood manufacturers peel the logs for the veneers down to a core of approximately 110mm, which they discard, but PNGFP re-peels that core in a special spindleless lathe to about the thickness of a broom stick; in addition, we also join less-than-full sheets of veneer to create useable full sheets thereby maximising the recovery. All wood waste is chipped and used as fuel for the Biomass Boiler producing steam for the veneer driers, plywood hot presses and kilns; and any residual sawdust is used at PNGFP’s poultry farm. 

PNGFP also works in conjunction with the PNG Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) to ensure that the best environmental practices are maintained.  In fact, PNG Forest Products is the only company in PNG that has achieved PEFC Chain of Custody accreditation on the basis of 100% controlled wood. PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) is an international organisation based in Switzerland that promotes sustainable forest management through independent third-party certification.

As part of the company’s compliance with PEFC accreditation and certification, PNGFP’s environmental practices are audited annually and DEC conducts annual inspections as part of their operating permit conditions. PNGFP’s Chain of Custody certification demonstrates a commitment to sustainable forest management that is unique in this country.  

As a further commitment to sustainability, the manufacturing facilities in Bulolo are powered by PNGFP’s own Hydro Power stations.  This combination of a renewable timber resource processed with sustainable hydro power and biomass heat energy, makes PNGFP’s Engineered Wood Products truly and uniquely green.