Tag Archives: Forestry investment

Business

FRA says Bamboo Prices could Rise

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FRA says it is “excited” by the prospects of bamboo being hailed as the new super material, which can be used for everything from housebuilding to garment manufacture.

Seattle, United States, April 12, 2012 — Forestry Research Analysis (FRA) says it is “excited” by the prospects of bamboo being hailed as the new super material, which can be used for everything from housebuilding to garment manufacture.

The research and analysis consultancy, which specialises in the forestry investment sector, claims that bamboo’s uses could make prices rise hugely over coming years, making it a good prospect for alternative investors.

“As the demand for raw materials increases in countries like China and India, the price of bamboo, which has so many uses and is a fast growing species, is bound to rise significantly.” FRA claims that bamboo, like other forestry stocks, absorbs carbon from the atmosphere, which means that when grown sustainable, it can offer one of the most cost effective ways of limiting climate change. All this while also producing a material that has so many purposes.

FRA’s analysis partner, Peter Collins, added, “We believe that bamboo, along with teak, eucalyptus, and other fast-growing durable forestry species, offers a wonderful opportunity or environmentally conscious investors.

“Prices of these asset classes are expected to grow over the coming years, as emerging economies continue to expand and demand more and more raw materials for construction and infrastructure projects.”

FRA supports investment in sustainable forestry projects, and bamboo, although not strictly a timber product, comes under the same banner. In fact, bamboo is being touted as the ‘timber of the 21st century’.

“As with projects like the plantations run by Greenwood Management and other companies in developing countries, the growing of bamboo in a sustainable way has the potential to help people living in these countries to establish a living and safeguard it for the next generation, providing proper forestry management techniques are used,” added Collins.

About Forestry Research Associates

Forestry Research Associates is a research and advisory consultancy that focuses on forestry management, sustainability issues and forestry investment around the globe.

Media Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(206) 316 8394
info@forestry-research.com
http://www.forestry-research.com

Business

Demand for Timber Frame Houses is ‘Good news’ for Forestry investors, says FRA

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A new report from MTW Research shows that demand for timber frame housing will increase hugely over the coming four years in the UK. This could prove good news for forestry investors, according to FRA.

Bainbridge Island, WA, April 11, 2012 – A new report from MTW Research shows that demand for timber frame housing will increase hugely over the coming four years in the UK. This could prove good news for forestry investors, according to Forestry Research Associates (FRA).

The researchers found that as demand for sustainable, energy efficient building materials increases, sales of timber frame homes will increase by 60 per cent in volume. Sales values will increase even further, growing by 80 per cent from current levels.

FRA, a research and analysis consultancy focusing on forestry investment, claims that those with investments in the timber industry could benefit from this new popularity of timber framed homes. The researchers claim that new regulations, such as the Code for Sustainable Homes is helping to promote timber as one of the lowest carbon forms of construction material.

“The research carried out by MTW Research was very comprehensive,” stated FRA’s analysis partner, Peter Collins. He added, “Around 80 per cent of the industry was involved in the study and much of the industry seemed extremely positive about what the future holds in store for them.” Growing demand is expected to come from the house-building sector, but also from the commercial, leisure and retail sectors, which are all also under pressure to turn to more sustainable building materials.

FRA is an advocate of investment in sustainable forestry projects, such as those run by Greenwood Management in Brazil. More and more people are investing in alternative asset classes such as forestry as the traditional financial markets continue to be volatile places to invest – where people can lose a fortune overnight.

“Investing in forestry and timber, however, is much less risky,” added Mr Collins, who went on to say, “If your timber stocks come to maturity at a time when the market is less than strong, you can just hold on a little longer before harvesting and watch your asset continue to grow in the meantime.”

Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(206) 316 8394
info@forestry-research.com
http://www.forestry-research.com

Business

Bamboo could prove a Good Investment, says AAA

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Investors seeking a new, sustainable plantation investment could consider investing in fast-growing species like bamboo, explains AAA.

Boston, MA, USA, April 4, 2012 — Investors seeking a new, sustainable plantation investment could consider investing in fast-growing species like bamboo, explains Alternative Asset Analysis (AAA).

Bamboo is being celebrated by many as a new ‘super material’ which can be grown quickly in plantations, which also help to absorb carbon from the atmosphere if managed sustainably. The mature plants are harvested, while others continue to grow in a sustainable cycle, which means there is always standing bamboo forests, always harvested bamboo to use in construction and always habitat for animals and forests for people to enjoy.

“This sustainable plantation model has proven successful as a means of providing an ongoing supply of materials, while helping to reduce the amount of carbon in the atmosphere, explained AAA’s analysis partner, Anthony Johnson.

The real selling point of bamboo is that the material can be used as a hard alternative to timber, or can be used almost as a material or fibre in weaving or in garment making. It can also be eaten. There is said to be 1,500 uses for the material, which grows fast and helps people living in poorer counties to make a living.

The World Bamboo Organization’s president, Michael Abadia, explains, “From the field and the forest to the factory and the merchant, from the design studio to the laboratory, from the universities to those in political power, people are more and more aware of this potentially renewable resource.”

AAA, an ethical and alternative investment advocacy group, has long-been a supporter of sustainable forestry investment. Plantations of species like Eucalyptus and teak, run by firms like Greenwood Management, offer a great opportunity for investors who want to diversify their portfolios.

Now, it is adding bamboo to its list of recommended asset classes for very similar reasons. “Many of us are pulling away from traditional stocks and bonds, with our sights set firmly on ethical and environmentally-responsible asset classes instead,” stated Mr Johnson.

About Alternative Asset Analysis:
The remit of Alternative Asset Analysis is to analyse and provide news on the global performance of a wide range of alternative asset classes including, but not restricted to, commodities, real estate, forestry, foreign exchange, hedge funds, private equity and venture capital.

Media Contact:
Anthony Johnson
Alternative Asset Analysis
71 Commercial St
Boston, MA 02109-1320
617-939-9596
info@alternativeassetanalysis.com
http://www.alternativeassetanalysis.com

Business

AAA welcomes New on Institutional investors’ interest in Alternatives

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Figures suggest that over a quarter of all searches carried out by institutional investors, relating to new mandates, are expected to be looking for alternative investments.

Boston, MA, March 30, 2012 – According to new figures from a survey carried out by eVestment Alliance in the US, over a quarter of all searches carried out by institutional investors, relating to new mandates, are expected to be looking for alternative investments. The news has been welcomed by alternative investment advocacy group, Alternative Asset Analysis (AAA), which supports many forms of alternative investments.

eVestment’s Casey Quirk spoke to some 30 investment consultants between December 2011 and January 2012 and found that those surveyed predicted that the alternative sector will be the most popular search category for institutional investors.

“This news is very welcome from our perspective as it illustrates the fact that alternatives are becoming increasingly attractive to institutional investors, as well as individuals, as a way to diversify the risk in a portfolio,” stated AAA’s analysis partner, Anthony Johnson.

The survey found that consultants expect alternative managers to be the subject of more than a quarter of searches carried out by institutional investors looking for new investments. The next two most frequently expected searches were domestic an international equities, which are expected to attract 19 per cent and 14 per cent of searches respectively.

AAA claims that the results show that the popularity of alternative asset classes, such as real estate, hedge funds and private equity, is continuing to grow as a result of the volatile equity markets. “Alternatives, such as hedge funds and real estate, as well as more left field alternatives, such as art, antiques, gold, forestry and even wine, are proving to be much more popular as here is evidence to show they are often outperforming equities in the current economic climate.”

AAA supports a range of alternative and ethical investments and concentrates much of its focus on environmentally responsible sustainable forestry investment, such as the plantation projects run by firms like Greenwood Management in Brazil ,Canada and elsewhere.

Contact:
Anthony Johnson
Alternative Asset Analysis
71 Commercial St
Boston, MA 02109-1320
617-939-9596
info@alternativeassetanalysis.com
http://www.alternativeassetanalysis.com

Business

FRA Flags Up ‘Future Climate’ Tree Species Trials

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An interesting research project is taking place in the UK, which could lead to some exciting plantation investment opportunities in the future, according to FRA.

Seattle, United States, March 30, 2012 — An interesting research project is taking place in the UK, which could lead to some exciting plantation investment opportunities in the future, according to Forestry Research Associates (FRA).

The Forestry Commission’s Forest Research division is carrying out a series of tests to try to establish species of trees that could survive and flourish in a ‘future climate’. Project REINFFORCE, as it is being known, is being funded by the European Union, explained FRA, which supports renewable forestry and forestry investment projects all over the world.

The project is growing 30 different tree species in 37 West Atlantic regions, including three trial sites in Britain. Forest Research is also carrying out three trials in Swinley, Berkshire and Peebles.

FRA’s analysis partner, Peter Collins, explained that the research is intended to find species that are most likely to be resilient to the challenges that may become more common in the future. For example, they are looking for species that may withstand high temperatures, a lack of water and more pests.

FRA claims that investing in these species once they have been established as the species of the future will be a good move for those looking to invest in an asset class that will see prices rise. Mr Collins explained: Sustainable forestry is undeniably an attractive investment opportunity these days, particularly in light of the volatility of the stock markets.”

FRA claims that people want to put their cash somewhere ethical and that investing in forestry research such as this project will help the human race to adapt to the changing climate. In addition, planting more trees is never a bad thing for the fight against climate change as trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere making forestry one of the most cost-effective ways to limit carbon emissions.

FRA supports a range of forestry investment schemes, including the plantation schemes run by Greenwood Management in Brazil.

About Forestry Research Associates

Forestry Research Associates is a research and advisory consultancy that focuses on forestry management, sustainability issues and forestry investment around the globe.

Media Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(206) 316 8394
info@forestry-research.com
http://www.forestry-research.com

Business

FRA welcomes Prediction of Timber demand increase

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A recent report in the Financial Times has provided a boost for the forestry investment industry, as it outlines how timber demand could increase by 55 per cent by 2050, according to FRA.

Bainbridge Island, WA, March 29, 2012 – A recent report in the Financial Times has provided a boost for the forestry investment industry, as it outlines how timber demand could increase by 55 per cent by 2050, according to Forestry Research Associates (FRA).

The feature begins by talking about how sustainable forestry investments are “flourishing” as the commodity’s value will rise “exponentially” as demand starts to exceed supply.

The increase in the demand for timber will result from the growing population and the increasing wealth of highly populated nations such as India and China, whose demand for raw materials is on the up as they invest billions in infrastructure and housing.

FRA’s analysis partner Peter Collins said, “We welcome the report from the FT, which plainly advocates investment in sustainable forestry projects as a viable, ethical and profitable alternative to traditional investments, such as stocks and shares, which are anything but reliable in the current economic climate.”

The report explains that biological growth means that tree value rises regardless of the market conditions for timber. When combined with the rising prices that are expected to result from the increase demand, investors could see huge returns for relatively small investments.

The FT also talks about how timber has been the only asset to experience price rises during three of the four market collapses in the past century. Forestry investment has, as a result, begun to attract those who are keen to diversify their investment portfolios with a asset class that is not aligned with general economic trends

Through projects like those run by Greenwood Management in Brazil, individuals can invest as little as EUR 10,000 to buy their own section of plantation land, which will be devoted to growing non-native, sustainable trees for domestic use and export to emerging economies. Mr Collins added, “Sustainable forestry projects also help to add to the earth’s carbon sequestration capabilities and contributes to habitats and green space for people and animals to enjoy.”

Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(206) 316 8394
info@forestry-research.com
http://www.forestry-research.com

Business

FRA urges Investors to seek out RISI Forestry Industry Report

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FRA is urging those interested in alternative investments to get hold of a copy of the new RISI Global Tree Farm Economics Review.

Seattle, United States, March 01, 2012 — Forestry Research Associates (FRA) is urging those interested in alternative investments to get hold of a copy of the new RISI Global Tree Farm Economics Review.

The review is a comprehensive look at the market for investing in sustainable plantation projects and other timber investment schemes all over the world.

The report looks at the various trends, economic and political factors that could impact the industry and investment returns for those with money in the industry.

FRA, which is a research and analysis consultancy, was keen to highlight the reports findings regarding China’s use of timber imports. The report confirms that China’s timber demand has increased in recent years and shows that the timber supply deficit in the country increased by 30 per cent in 2011 to 152 million cubic metres.

The figures show that China’s import of pulp, lumber, logs and woodchip reached record level last year.

“These figures are bound to cheer timber investors as they show that China’s demand for timber is ongoing and should provide a strong market for timber exports,” explained FRA’s analysis partner, Peter Collins.

The reports also reviewed the major timber producing countries of the world in terms of their performance for timber investors and also their general outlook. The report’s co-author, Robert Flynn stated, “The Review is specific enough to be useful, but broad enough to cover the very wide range of geographic and product variations in type of timber investment projects.”

The report also outlines the benefits and risks involved with timber investment in each of the included countries. FRA supports forestry investment schemes such as the sustainable plantation schemes run by Greenwood Management in Brazil, which help to reduce the pressure on native trees to provide charcoal and other timber products.

“We believe that investing in timber is a good bet in view of the growing demand for wood products in emerging economies,“ concluded Mr Collins.

About Forestry Research Associates

Forestry Research Associates is a research and advisory consultancy that focuses on forestry management, sustainability issues and forestry investment around the globe.

Media Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Tel: (206) 316 8394
E-Mail: info@forestry-research.com
Web: http://www.forestry-research.com

Business

FRA Claims Protecting Indigenous Rights is Vital to REDD+ scheme

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FRA claims that the REDD+ project is more than just about preventing deforestation and has backed a statement from a high profile member, who talks about the importance of helping those living in and around the forests.

Bainbridge Island, WA, February 21, 2012 – Forestry Research Associates (FRA) claims that the REDD+ project is more than just about preventing deforestation and has backed a statement from a high profile member, who talks about the importance of helping those living in and around the forests.

Kuntoro Mangkusubroto, one of the leaders of the REDD+ task force in Indonesia, has spoken out to highlight the fact that the campaign should be just as much about safeguarding the rights of indigenous people as preventing deforestation.

He stated, “It’s not as simple as the destruction of forests by logging companies. That certainly happens, but the real issue in REDD is poverty, and we must link the two together.”

FRA, which is a research and analysis consultancy, and Mangkusubroto, agree that poverty has become rife in some regions that have experienced a high level of deforestation due to the failure to recognise indigenous peoples’ land rights.

FRA also points out that these kinds of land rights issues can occur as a result of REDD+ measures. Mangkusubroto points out an example that occurred in Sumatra, where an indigenous population were told to move away from their homes as the forest land they lived in was designated a conservation area. Mangkusubroto was keen to point out that he intends to avoid these kinds of measures being introduced. He stated, “We will not implement a ‘father knows best’ approach, but instead we’ll do this cooperatively.”

FRA supports sustainable forestry investment schemes that help to safeguard valuable forests in developing countries. An example is the non-native forestry plantations grown by Greenwood Management in Brazil. The growth of non-native trees for use as charcoal by the domestic steel industry, can help reduce the reliance on native trees. Peter Collins, AAA’s analysis partner explained, “This kind of scheme helps local people realise the value of their standing forests.”

Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(206) 316 8394
info@forestry-research.com
http://www.forestry-research.com

Business

Forest Carbon Partners funding scheme wins support of FRA

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News of the new Forest Carbon Partners forestry investment scheme from New Forests Inc. has won the support of FRA, which analyses various forms of forestry investment project.

Seattle, United States, February 17, 2012 — News of the new Forest Carbon Partners forestry investment scheme from New Forests Inc. has won the support of Forestry Research Associates (FRA), which analyses various forms of forestry investment project.

Forest Carbon Partners is an investment vehicle that offers funding for carbon offsetting projects in California. The fund helps to manage these projects and deliver revenue to landowners.

Among the first projects it is involved with is a scheme to develop forestry carbon offsets over 11,000 acres in the West of the US. The scheme sees it partner with a Native American tribe and a family who own the forest in the area.

The project is intended to help finance a total of 100,000 acres of forestry carbon offset schemes, which will generate returns for land owners, as well as increasing natural habitats and absorbing large qualities of CO2.

FRA is a research and analysis consultancy that specialises in forestry investment projects. It supports investment projects in developing countries, as well as carbon offsetting schemes all over the world.

The Forest Carbon Partner is one such project, and its managing director, David Brand commented: “As the California carbon market comes online, New Forests believes that forest carbon projects will become a critical source of offset supply.

“Forest Carbon Partners brings together a sophisticated understanding of both forestry and carbon markets to meet the demand for high-quality carbon credits that ensure important co-benefits for family forest landowners and the environment.”

FRA also supports schemes such as the renewable plantations run by Greenwood Management in Brazil and Canada. These projects help to reduce the reliance on natural forests by providing alternative non-native forests, which are managed in a sustainable way.

FRA’s Peter Collins, said, “We welcome the New Forests project as it will help to boost carbon sequestration in one of the world’s most high impact regions, in terms of CO2 emissions.”

About Forestry Research Associates

Forestry Research Associates is a research and advisory consultancy that focuses on forestry management, sustainability issues and forestry investment around the globe.

Media Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Tel: (206) 316 8394
E-Mail: info@forestry-research.com
Web: http://www.forestry-research.com

Business

FRA supports Congo’s call for Indian forestry investment

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The Republic of Congo’s decision to encourage Indian private companies to invest in its forestry industry has been welcomed by FRA.

Seattle, United States, February 07, 2012 — The Republic of Congo’s decision to encourage Indian private companies to invest in its forestry industry has been welcomed by Forestry Research Associates (FRA).

FRA welcomed the news that Henri Djombo, the Forestry and Environment Minister in the Congo, spoke out in favour of Congolese forestry investment at the Delhi Sustainable Development Summit.

Speaking to the Economic Times in India, Djombo said, “We have a big timber industry and would want Indian private companies to come and invest in the our timber companies.”

He also took the opportunity to call for more funding from developed nations to help the Congo and other developing nations to manage their forests sustainably. He explained, “There is a financial and climate injustice being done to us. We are making so much efforts for forest management compared to the Amazon forest in Brazil or rainforest in Indonesia but compensation is less.”

FRA, a research and analysis consultancy specialising in sustainable forestry and investment, said that Djombo’s views highlight how important funding in the form of forestry investment is. “Attracting foreign investment into the forestry industry in developing countries is vital to ensure that those working in the industry can benefit form their forests being managed sustainably,” claimed FRA’s analysis partner, Peter Collins.

FRA believes that developing countries need to be compensated for forestry management in order to highlight the fact that forests can be worth more standing than as timber. This is due to importance of living forests for the absorption of carbon dioxide.

In addition, FRA said that money can be made for investors, through schemes like those run by Greenwood Management in Brazil, where investors buy up sustainable plantation land and sell the timber when the trees have reached maturity. This schemes also offer an alternative to native timbers for the production of charcoal.

About Forestry Research Associates

Forestry Research Associates is a research and advisory consultancy that focuses on forestry management, sustainability issues and forestry investment around the globe.

Media Contact:
Peter Collins
Forestry Research Associates
620 Vineyard Lane
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Tel: (206) 316 8394
E-Mail: info@forestry-research.com
Web: http://www.forestry-research.com