As the summer season approaches, the Irish construction industry braces for a potential shortage of sawn timber due to the expected dry and hot weather. The Swedish Forest Industries Federation (Skogsindustrierna) warns that a lack of forest raw materials may occur in the autumn, urging the construction sector to consider using wood from forests infested with bark beetles. This recommendation comes with the emphasis on the importance of maintaining the supply of sawn timber.
Despite the weakened global market, the demand for Swedish wood products has been surprisingly strong throughout the year. In March, deliveries were still at record levels. However, the recession and reduced construction may lead to a decrease in demand for timber. This could have a significant impact on the supply of sawn timber in Ireland, as the country imports a significant amount of timber from Sweden.
The Irish construction industry is heavily reliant on timber imports, with 80% of timber used in construction being imported. The majority of this timber comes from Sweden, where the industry has been experiencing a shortage of forest raw materials. With the expected dry and hot weather, the shortage may worsen, leading to a potential crisis in the Irish construction industry. The industry must consider alternative sources of timber or risk facing a severe shortage.
The Swedish Forest Industries Federation’s recommendation to use wood from forests infested with bark beetles may be a solution to the shortage. The bark beetle infestation has caused a significant amount of damage to Swedish forests, resulting in a surplus of timber. This surplus timber could be used to meet the demand for sawn timber in Ireland. However, the use of infested wood may raise concerns regarding the quality of the timber and its durability. The construction industry must weigh the benefits and risks of using infested wood before making a decision.
The shortage of sawn timber may also lead to an increase in prices. The Irish construction industry may have to pay a higher price for timber imports due to the shortage. This could lead to an increase in the cost of construction, which may have a ripple effect on the entire industry. The government may have to intervene to ensure that the supply of sawn timber is maintained and that the cost of construction remains affordable.
In conclusion, the Irish construction industry must prepare for a potential shortage of sawn timber due to the expected dry and hot weather. The industry must consider alternative sources of timber, such as using infested wood from Swedish forests. However, the use of infested wood may raise concerns regarding the quality of the timber and its durability. The shortage may also lead to an increase in prices, which may have a significant impact on the cost of construction. The government may have to intervene to ensure that the supply of sawn timber is maintained and that the cost of construction remains affordable.
