Renewables present a significant job-creating opportunity for Tasmania, but the term covers a broad spectrum of products.
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When most people think of renewables, they think of renewable energy but the timber industry also falls into this category, as a renewable product.
Tasmania's forestry industry has held up well during the coronavirus pandemic, with the demand for timber remaining relatively steady.
However, some small timber processing plants have had to temporarily shut down due to changes in the export market and a slight softening of demand in those areas.
Coronavirus: All the latest updates on COVID-19 for Tasmani
Resources Minister Guy Barnett said he was extremely proud of the way the industry had weathered the virus storm so far.
"Thanks to the dedication and commitment of businesses and employees, and the ongoing demand for timber exports, the forestry sector will be an important leader in the recovery and rebuilding phase for the Tasmanian economy, driving investment and providing thousands of jobs, many in regional areas," he said.
"While we are all faced with the extraordinary challenge of COVID-19 I am extremely proud of the way the forestry industry has proactively adapted to working in unprecedented circumstances."
Strong results for the construction sector is the result of a strong construction industry, which is a key market for Tasmanian forest products. However, there is some concern that construction may slow down in the future.
Tasmania's road map to recovery
A spokesperson for Sustainable Timber Tasmania said the industry would be vital in the state's recovery from the health and economic crisis.
"As it continues to operate strongly, forestry will contribute to the overall recovery of the Tasmanian economy by continuing to generating revenues and employ people, and will help offset the impacts that are being felt in other sectors such as tourism."
In other news:
Renewable energy company Goldwind Australia, which is responsible for wind farm projects in Tasmania also believes the energy market has a role to play in recovery.
Managing director John Titchen said during the pandemic, construction on wind farm projects had been able to continue with social distancing, and as such shovel-ready projects like Low Head presented a unique opportunity.
"Low Head would be the next project in Tasmania we would look to advance, it has development approval so it does provide an opportunity to accelerate that project," Mr Titchen said. He said Tasmania's strong wind resource made it a competitive location for wind farm projects and he believed renewable energy companies did have a role in economic bounce back.
Mr Titchen said Tasmania had strong leadership from the government on this issue, citing a recent policy announcement by Premier Peter Gutwein to increase Tasmania's renewable energy by 200 per cent. He said the Battery of the Nation and Project Marinus projects would also be vital ways the government could help accelerate and stimulate the economy.
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