Forest

Wood and recovered paper are amongst the most sustainable raw materials in the world because they are renewable and recyclable. These unique qualities are central to the sustainable nature of the paper industry, but their benefits are not always recognised. For example, contrary to public opinion Europe’s forests are increasing not decreasing– by an area equivalent to 1.5 million football pitches every year -and responsible forest management is helping to drive this. Forests also have an important economic role beyond providing a renewable resource base; they also provide vital income and employment in rural areas and down the forest-based chain. However, policies impacting forests and the paper industry don't always reflect the 'big picture' on sustainability.

The increasing competition between wood for bio-energy and for the paper industry presents a new challenge. A recent European Enviornment Agency Report "How much bio-energy can Europe produce without harming the Environment?" only forecasts an annual additional potential of 200million m3 of biomass in Europe's forests. CEPI wonders how more ambitious targets on wood for bio-energy can be met without risking the overall sustainability of Europe's forest and agricultural resources as well as the competitiveness of the sector. This is particularly relevant in the light of the new EU targets for energy from renewable sources, to be fulfilled by 2020.

For more details on Forest issues, please read our ForestBackground and ForestFactSheet.

Bernard de Galembert, Forest Director
Ulrich Leberle, Raw Materials Manager
Noura Younes, Assistant