European paper industry welcomes new EU Forest Strategy
The Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) welcomes the adoption of the new EU Forest Strategy by the European Commission. Most importantly, the Strategy will support the paper industry’s contribution to the European bio-based economy, as it comprises wood mobilisation as well as the “cascade” principle for wood use.
“The Forest Strategy will enable the full benefits of sustainable forest management in Europe at a time where the European paper industry is becoming a key contributor to the bio-based economy. It will help coordinate Member States and Commission acivities related to forests, while increasingly relying on wood as a valuable raw material”, commented Teresa Presas, CEPI Director General.
CEPI welcomes several key points listed in the Strategy, notably (1) promoting the use of wood, (2) facilitating wood mobilisation, and (3) conveying a focus on research and innovation in the forest sector. Each of these areas are important to the competitiveness of the European paper industry as wood is a critical raw material for them.
Moreover, CEPI highly appreciates the reference to the “cascade” principle of wood use, which will help the EU use its wood more effectively. Furthermore, its inclusion shows that the Commission gives prominence to the creation of value and jobs in a strategic industry sector in Europe.
In addition, CEPI offers to support the Commission in the implementation of the new Forest Strategy, particularly via the Advisory Group on Forestry and Cork. CEPI is a member of this group and intends to play an active role.
#END#
For more information, please contact Daniela Haiduc at , mobile: +32 (0) 473 562 936
Note to the Editor
Commission presents new EU forest strategy
http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-13-850_en.htm
http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-13-806_en.htm
http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-13-803_en.htm
CEPI aisbl – The Confederation of European Paper Industries
The Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) is a Brussels-based non-profit organisation regrouping the European pulp and paper industry and championing industry’s achievements and the benefits of its products. Through its 18 member countries (17 European Union members plus Norway) CEPI represents some 520 pulp, paper and board producing companies across Europe, ranging from small and medium sized companies to multi-nationals, and 950 paper mills. Together they represent 24% of world production.