The industry had long been at
loggerheads with environmentalists, and has been slow to shake off its
traditional commodity mindset. Now, however, customers and legislation
are driving eco-innovation
In theory wood and wood
products should be the most sustainable of industries since the basic
raw material is a renewable resource. However, some forest extraction
techniques are non-sustainable. The sustainable forest industry project,
an international study, aimed to create a factual base upon which to
begin a constructive dialogue process with stakeholders on broader
forest issues
The industry's key challenge is to live off
interest, not capital and create new markets for forest foods and
services, for example, medicines, recreation and carbon fixing.
Links and
Balances
Rising global demand for
wood
Working with supply
chain and local communities
Recycling and new
supply e.g. alder
Environmental campaigns
Tightening legislation
Powerful supply chain
drive for "good" wood
Stakeholder dialogue
Climate change, habitat
and biodiversity issues
Local employment
Transport logistics
concerns
Social issues like
poverty and lack of education
European markets for
eco-labelled products expanding
Clear cutting practices
Local stewardship
initiatives
Preserving old growth
forests and unique examples
F SC and labelling
Destroying tourism
potential
WWF's timber trader
system
Boycotts
Retailers pulling back
from poor forestry practice
Working with supply chain and local
communities
Forestry
Company
description
An association owned by 34,000 forest farmers in a
Nordic country. It is the country's largest forest owner.
How are
they practically tackling sustainability?
Association uses the
eco-cyclical principle. A full life cycle approach is taken across the
supply chain.
The company has made
considerable investment in the environment which has resulted in
significant reduction of environmental impact.
All members of staff are to
have requisite qualifications and awareness of the environmental arena.
Forestry practices take into
account natural biodiversity, the culture, environment and outdoor life.
Discharges are limited as much
as possible with regard to technology and profitability. Legislation is
considered a minimum requirement.
Strong focus on R&D and
development of new technology.
Support local community
initiatives.
Environmental aspects are
taken into account when selecting suppliers and contractors.
Environmentally friendly alternatives take precedence; providing they
reach quality and profitability standards.
Keep an open dialogue with
those interested in the company.
Every company involved to
introduce an environmental management system and set up long or short
term objectives.
Every company manager is responsible for
ensuring measures are implemented.
