Responsible Wood Extends 2026 Leadership Award Deadline

Nominations Open Until August 28 for 2026 Award

Responsible Wood, the national forest certification system for Australia and New Zealand, has extended the nomination deadline for its 2026 Richard Stanton Memorial Leadership Award. Nominations will now be accepted until August 28.

Established in 2015, the award acknowledges individuals who show leadership, innovation, and commitment to sustainable forest management or Chain of Custody certification under the Responsible Wood Certification Scheme.

It specifically targets contributions within Australia and New Zealand's forestry and forest products sector, aiming to recognise efforts in responsible forestry and certified supply chains.

Award Honours Sustainable Forestry Pioneer

The Richard Stanton Memorial Leadership Award was established to honor the late Richard Stanton, recognized as a pioneer in sustainable forestry both within Australia and internationally. The award seeks to acknowledge an individual who has demonstrated leadership, innovation, and commitment to sustainable forest management or Chain of Custody certification.

The recipient receives a A$2,000 bursary, intended to support professional development activities such as conference attendance or a chosen course.

Industry Encouraged to Nominate Leaders

Simon Dorries, Responsible Wood chief executive, encouraged professionals in the forestry and forest products sector to submit nominations. He stated that many individuals in the industry contribute significantly to responsible forestry and certified supply chains.

Dorries described the award as an opportunity to acknowledge those who lead by example, foster collaboration, and uphold the integrity of sustainable forest management and sustainably sourced materials. The focus remains on individuals operating within Australia and New Zealand.

In 2025, Shona Heading received the award for her work in sustainable forest management and her efforts to promote certified Australian timber.

Implications for Asia-Pacific Sourcing

For procurement directors and specifiers sourcing building materials in Asia, this award highlights the ongoing focus on certified timber and sustainable forest management in Australia and New Zealand.

Projects seeking materials with verified Chain of Custody certifications, such as those under the Responsible Wood Certification Scheme, can consider these regions for their timber needs.

The award's emphasis on leadership in these areas signals a continued commitment to traceable and responsibly produced wood products, offering a benchmark for supply chain transparency from these markets.