Forest Sector Reducing Methyl Bromide Use

29 March 2007

Forest Sector Reducing Methyl Bromide Use

The New Zealand forestry industry is actively working on technical solutions to reduce the amount of methyl bromide released during fumigation at Port Nelson says Peter Bodeker, CEO of the Wood Processors Association of New Zealand.

Bodeker says that the forestry industry would prefer not to have to use methyl bromide. However, biosecurity standards imposed by New Zealand's trading partners, notably Australia, require treatment of export logs and lumber from New Zealand".

"The forestry industry is aware of concerns over methyl bromide emissions and is researching new technologies to reduce them. Stakeholders in Methyl Bromide Reduction (STIMBR), a group committed to reduction in emissions, is actively working on finding and implementing solutions including alternative treatments and methyl bromide capture.

STIMBR spokesman Mark Self says that the forest industry was a key driving force behind this initiative. Implementation of alternative log fumigants has already significantly reduced use of methyl bromide. Research projects currently underway include implementation of fumigant capture systems at Port Nelson. This technology can capture more than 95% of available methyl bromide gas, substantially reducing emissions and their effect on the ozone layer.

ENDS

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