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 REGULATORY NEWS
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EPA Issues Formaldehyde Rule
All composite wood products sold in the U.S. must meet federal formaldehyde emission levels. The new EPA rule requires fabricators who laminate wood veneer to meet the hardwood plywood requirement of 0.05 ppm or lower, unless exempt, using PF (phenol formaldehyde) or NAF (no added formaldehyde) resins. The requirement applies to both U.S. and imported composite wood products. The rule takes effect one year after it is published in the Federal Register.
Source: HPVA®; LBM Journal, Chem Info, August 1; EPA, Hardwood Floors, Remodeling, July 27, 2016.
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ECONOMIC TRENDS
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Plywood Imports From China Surge
After 4 months of declines, U.S. hardwood plywood imports jumped 27% in May, up 3% over the past 12 months. The value of these imports fell 5%. Chinese imports drove the increase, soaring 55% vs. the previous month. Shipments from Canada increased as imports from Indonesia fell 7%.
Source: Tropical Timber Market Report, July 31, 2016 (see page 22).
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ENVIRONMENTAL NEWS
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The Fight Against Illegal Logging
In London, the 26th Illegal Logging and Stakeholder Consultation highlighted forest law enforcement, governance and trade, and voluntary partnership agreements. China and Russia have signed a memorandum of understanding to combat illegal logging and related trade. As a result of the EU-China Forest Law Enforcement and Governance conference in Beijing back in 2007, China and the EU are just now exploring how to recognize legality verification schemes for timber and timber products.
Source: EU FLEGT Facility; Chatham House, June 16, 2016.
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REGULATORY NEWS
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Wood Under Legislative Fire
Progress on the Timber Innovation Act, which promotes the benefits of building with wood, has been painfully slow. It is unlikely that the EPA will classify specific biomass feedstocks as carbon neutral under President Obama’s watch. Anti-wood sentiment is evident in 2 states: a new ordinance in Georgia will prohibit wood frame construction in any structure taller than 3 stories and more than 100,000 square feet. Maryland’s anti-wood bill prohibits using lightweight combustible construction in multifamily dwellings.
Source: HPVA®.
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ASSOCIATION NEWS
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Need EPA Certification?
Look no further! HPVA Laboratories® provides EPA certification for fabricators affected by the new EPA formaldehyde regulation. Our experts have been testing formaldehyde emissions of wood products for over 35 years for U.S. and international producers - as well as CARB, CPSC, and HUD. HPVA Laboratories® is accredited by the IAS for ISO 17065 certification, 17020 inspections, and 17025 testing.
For more information, contact Josh Hosen at 703-435-2900 ext. 112 or add your name to the list to receive certification FAQs and analysis.
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NEWS BRIEFS
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U.S. Homeownership Sinks
The rate dropped from 63.5% in the first quarter to 62.9% - the lowest level since 1965.
Source: Construction Dive, July 28, 2016.
New Map Of Housing Starts
The latest NAHB report shows housing starts by census map. The South Atlantic, West South Central, and Mountain Divisions lead.
Source: Builder, July 26, 2016.
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Cal/OSHA Reviews Comments
Cal/OSHA is reviewing industry comments on the proposal to reduce wood dust levels.
Source: HPVA®, July 2016.
Homeowners Spend To Remodel
The thriving home renovation market should reach $321 billion by mid-2017. The 8% growth rate is nearly double the norm.
Source: Construction Dive, July 25, 2016.
U.S. Hardwood Exports To China Up
Exports grew 4.8% to $520 million between January and April due to China’s fast-growing real estate market.
Source: China News, June 30, 2016.
Report Backs Timber For Building
A UN report makes the economic case for a low-carbon future by building with wood.
Source: Timberbiz, July 28, 2016.
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Forestry, Agriculture Compete
Forests are losing 7 million hectares (about 17.3 million acres) every year, while agriculture gains 6 million hectares.
Source: FAO, 2016; IPS, July 26; Timberbiz, July 21; Myanmar Times, July 4, 2016.
Gypsy Moths Destroy NE Forests
NASA maps the month-to-month destruction.
Source: Business Insider, July 19, 2016.
Vancouver Taxes Foreign Buyers
The government hopes a 15% foreign buyer tax will dampen the hot housing market.
Source: Vancouver Sun, July 29, 2016.
Trees To Strengthen Auto Parts
Research shows how cellulose nanomaterials can be shaped into stronger bumpers and fenders.
Source: The Clemson Newsstand, July 27, 2016.
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Send Us Your Company News, Ideas For Articles, And More
We are always looking for great stories, news about your company, and interesting multimedia. We also welcome feedback on this week's content and suggestions for topics you would like to see in upcoming HPVA® eNews. Email us at innovate@hpva.org.
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