For Hyne Timber, sustainable development is about ensuring our company contributes lasting benefits to society through the consideration of social, environmental, ethical and economic aspects in all that we do. Working through complex operational issues associated with our operations has highlighted environmental and social performance as a critical success factor for the Company.

Our aim is for zero harm to people, communities and the environment:

1. We aspire to create a workplace that is injury and incident free.
2. We seek to minimise and, where possible, eliminate our environmental impacts over time.
3. Being preferred by employees for providing a safe, healthy and equitable workplace and caring about the communities in which we live.
4. Being preferred by the communities in which we operate for our contribution to sustainable community well-being.
5. Being preferred by our customers, suppliers, contractors – as a committed and reliable partner in delivering sustainable value.

Our emphasis on sustainable value means we have the willingness to invest for the future while ensuring we deliver value in the shorter term.

Wood is 100% sustainable:

1. "Substituting a cubic metre of wood for other construction materials (concrete, blocks or bricks) results in the significant average of 0.75 to 1 tonne of CO2 savings"*.
2. The process of manufacturing timber uses substantially less fossil fuel energy per unit volume than steel, concrete, or aluminium; meaning that timber has a very low carbon footprint.
3. Since timber is a natural element, it is non-toxic and safe to handle. Even as it ages, it does not cause damage to the environment.
4. Timber is renewable, recyclable, waste efficient, biodegradable, carbon positive and sourced from Australian grown plantations.
5. Using timber in building construction can maximise Green Star energy ratings and carbon credits.

The environmental and psychological benefits of timber are outlined in Planet Ark's new report Wood – Nature Inspired Design, which details the importance of connecting buildings with the natural world through ‘Nature Connected Design’ (biophilic design) for a healthier and happier environment.

* Source: Using wood products to mitigate climate change: A review of evidence and key issues for sustainable development (January 2004), International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) and The Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Management (ECCM).