More efficient technologies needed in order to safeguard Europe's forests

Brussels, May 2003

A study commissioned by the confederation of European paper industries (CEPI) has highlighted the need for further research by the wood-based industries in order to improve efficiency and safeguard Europe's forests.

Three policy developments are expected to have a direct impact of the future supply of wood: nature-oriented forest management, carbon sequestration of forests, and the increased use of wood as an energy source.

'At the moment there are certainly ample wood resources in forests, but due to these government policies, technical and economical accessibility, environmental considerations and market conditions, the mobilisation of this available wood is now at risk,' reads a statement by CEPI.

If current practices are adhered to, the supply of roundwood in 36 European countries may reach 718 million cubic metres by 2060, with the identified policy developments creating an additional shortfall of 195 million cubic metres in Europe by the same date.

CEPI recommends that wood-based industries enhance cooperation with other players in order to share knowledge and experience, and invest more in research and development in order to improve technology.

CEPI would also like to see the development of networks and strong, long term partnerships aimed at securing the origin and traceability of wood to ensure that it is coming from sustainably managed forests. To read the study, please visit: http://www.cepi.org/files/Wood_AvailFINA L-090159A.pdf

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