Trans-Tasman forestry venture up and running

Trans-Tasman forestry venture up and running

Forest Research and Australia’s CSIRO announced today that ensis, their new joint venture in forest industry research and development, has commenced trading.

Following two years of committed effort by the two leading forestry R&D agencies in both countries, ensis has been established to strengthen competitiveness and research capacity of the Australasian forest, wood and paper industries.

Dr Paul Cotterill, Chief of CSIRO Forestry and Forest Products and Bryce Heard, Chief Executive of Forest Research said today that the increased scale and depth of research capacity will place ensis in a strong position to deliver a full range of science and technology services for public and private sector clients.

“ensis will enhance the ability of both nation’s forestry industries to develop world-class products and services by making the most of the R&D and science investment synergies existing between the operations of CSIRO and Forest Research,” Mr Heard said.

The ability to access forestry research and development via a single point of entry has been welcomed by the industry. A major focus of the joint venture will be on securing and developing strategic partnerships with key sector players.

ensis comprises four R&D business units: Pulp, paper and packaging – optimising processes and products. Wood and wood products – ensuring the place of wood in a modern market. Tree improvement and germplasm – breeding better forests for maximum returns. Wood and fibre quality – linking quality to value.

At start up, ensis will have around 180 science and technical staff, with annual revenues of approximately $30 million. General Managers have been appointed for each business unit, and the appointment of a Chief Executive is expected soon.

The Australian and New Zealand Ministers of Science announced the deal between Forest Research and CSIRO in April this year. (ANZAC deal gives major boost to forest products industry).

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