Case Study: Implementing Sustainable Forest Management Practices for a Regional Timber Company
The Client
A regional timber company with operations in 2 states.
The Challenge
The client was facing pressure from local regulators to improve its sustainability practices. Their annual deforestation rate was 1.5%, above the state average of 1.1%. Operational costs were rising due to inefficient harvesting processes, with average cost per cubic meter 6% higher than industry benchmarks. The company needed to enhance its sustainability while improving operational efficiency.
Solution
Over an 24-month period, we:
1. Developed a targeted sustainable forest management plan, including selective harvesting techniques.
2. Implemented a GPS-based monitoring system to track harvesting activities and identify areas for improvement.
3. Optimized harvesting schedules using data analytics, reducing average transportation distance by 8%.
4. Introduced drone technology for forest surveying, improving data accuracy by 15%.
5. Trained 80 field staff on sustainable practices and new technologies.
Results
After 36 months:
- Reduced annual deforestation rate from 1.5% to 1.0%.
- Increased FSC-certified forest area from 70% to 90% of total holdings.
- Improved operational efficiency, reducing cost per cubic meter by 8%.
- Achieved 95% compliance with state sustainability regulations.
- Secured a new 5-year supply contract with a major regional retailer.