SUSTAINABILITY
how to define this material both for domestic consumption and for export. The introduction of a comprehensive system is vital for ensuring consistency in how this sustainable material is defined. Without such standards, both manufacturers and consumers face uncertainty regarding the ‘bragging rights’ of using palm wood — as a sustainable, green, and climate-positive material. WHAT CAN BE DONE The current scenario underscores a pressing need for greater clarity and stakeholder engagement. Key actions include: Establishing and clarifying certification pathways for palm wood: This includes identifying appropriate certification bodies and adapting existing standards, or creating new ones that address the unique aspects of palm wood. Engagement with organisations like MSPO to explore possible adaptations or collaborations is crucial.
would simplify the regulatory and compliance landscape. This would help in distinguishing palm wood from traditional timber, thus streamlining the process of adhering to relevant regulations and avoiding unnecessary export cess. Coming together for solutions: It is imperative for industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and certification organisations to collaborate in addressing these issues. Such collaboration could lead to tailored solutions that recognise the unique nature of palm wood while ensuring compliance with sustainability and legality requirements. CONCLUSION The palm wood sector stands at a crossroads, with opportunities tempered by regulatory and certification challenges. Addressing these issues requires coordinated efforts from all stakeholders involved. By clarifying certification pathways, defining appropriate HS codes, and fostering collaboration, the industry can pave the way for the successful
integration of palm wood into the global market, ensuring sustainability, mitigation of climate change and confidence in regulatory compliance. P
Inspiring the next “material revolution” by creating sustainable and high- performance materials from oil palm waste, Peter Fitch , together with IOI, have set up IOI Palm Wood to commercialise this untapped potential.
Defining HS codes: The development of specific HS codes for palm wood products
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 | PANELS & FURNITURE ASIA 57
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