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According to Grobbelaar , the weak point in the South African timber supply chain is its sawmilling sector , which has not , over the years , kept up with new technology . “ In addition , sawmilling has lost a lot of critical skills and knowledge ,” says Grobbelaar . Another aim of the Chair at UP , says Grobbelaar , is to improve the sawmilling sector ’ s competitiveness .
Despite several significant challenges facing the timber industry , he remains optimistic about the future of timber in South Africa though . “ The innovation and market development initiatives by the dtic are encouraging . Although still in its initial stages , at least there is some momentum . Government policy was not aligned with industry for a long time , which made it difficult , but at least that has changed now . In the sawmilling sector we need one or two companies to take the lead and show the industry what impact innovation can have , and the rest will follow . The step that York Timbers took to sponsor a research Chair at UP was a strategic decision that will increase competitiveness ,” he adds .
As South Africa moves into a new normal , timber construction will have to form part of the conversation when it comes to affordable housing . The benefits of building with timber are well-known and well-researched but still not embraced by the general South African population . The current efforts by Universities , the timber industry and government , needs to be supported and promoted to create a vibrant timber sector in South Africa .
The Engineering 4.0 Complex includes wide , open social areas , both inside the facility and in the surrounding natural forest areas .
The innovation and market development initiatives by the dtic are encouraging . Although still in its initial stages , at least there is some momentum . Government policy was not aligned with industry for a long time , which made it difficult , but at least that has changed now .
Dedicated artworks have been installed inside the main building .
www . timberiq . co . za // APRIL / MAY 2021 23