Fibre supply models for the Australian and New Zealand paper industry

The paper summarizes latest developments in fibre supply models. Pulpwood planning models are discussed based on new techniques using time dependent Markov models for consistent tree growth and stand yield estimates, These models also enable yields to be predicted within fibre property classes, facilitating the planning of the fibre input mix for particular products and processes, The increasingly important area of secondary fibre supply planning is given a new treatment in that fibre quality deterioration through recycling is incorporated. Using a simplified model of fibre supply for the newsprint industry in the region the important complicating factors are introduced. These include the spatial distribution and collection of virgin fibre rich recycled papers, a strategic competitive dimension which is becoming more important in this region.