The US and Canadian forest industries take issue with NRDC’s recent toilet paper claims, saying tissue products are a sustainable choice and it’s their report that belongs in the toilet. In related news: SAPPI on paper that inhibits germ growth without chemicals; and California may phase out paper receipts. Meanwhile, inventors of bullet-proof wood create fire-proof wood; tall-wood buildings are sprouting up in Canada; Sweden’s tallest timber building is open for business; and more on BC’s wood design awards.

In Business news: the ups and downs on lumber prices (Madison’s); the building permit trend is encouraging (National Bank); clarity on the softwood lumber dispute (Russ Cameron); and a policy review preview for BC’s Interior (Minister Donaldson).

Finally, celebrating International Woman’s Day at: FPAC, West Fraser, Blue Ridge Lumber and Tolko; and BC’s air quality was among the world’s worst in 2018.

Kelly McCloskey, Tree Frog Editor