This week, the European wood industries, represented by CEIBois and EOS, delivered a clear and forward-looking message during a side event of the 20th session of the UN Forum on Forests (UNFF20), organised by the FAO Advisory body ACSFI "Unlocking the Potential: Public-private Sector Collaboration for Advancing Global Forest Goals" at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
The event highlighted the strategic role of the European wood sector in advancing a sustainable forest-based bioeconomy. As a renewable, versatile, and low-carbon material, wood offers a viable alternative to fossil-intensive products, contributing significantly to climate mitigation, biodiversity preservation, and circular innovation.
The European wood sector provides sustainable solutions across a wide range of industries— from construction and furniture to packaging, textiles, and bio-based chemicals—while reducing dependence on fossil resources. It also supports long-term carbon storage, especially through durable wood products in the built environment, thereby also contributing to alleviating the housing crisis.
Beyond environmental gains, the wood sector is vital to rural development and economic growth in forest-rich regions. The wood industries drive innovation and technological progress in the circular bioeconomy by developing advanced construction materials while by converting wood processing residues into valuable products, the industry enhances resource efficiency and minimises waste.
To fully unlock the potential of the forest-based bioeconomy, we need coherent policies and harmonised standards. Key priorities include: strengthening green public procurement, updating building codes to reflect the sustainability and carbon storage benefits of timber, and promoting modern construction methods such as off-site building and renovation. Increased R&D investment for wood materials and new applications is also vital.
These messages were reinforced by CEI-Bois and EOS at the European Commission's Workshop on "Shaping a Competitive Future for Bio-based Products" on 5 May. Ensuring a sustainable and secure timber supply remains essential for long-term success. The wood sector stands ready to lead in green growth, innovation, and delivering on Europe's bioeconomy.
More information:
CEI-Bois
[email protected]
www.cei-bois.org
EOS
[email protected]
www.eos-oes.eu