Balanced management of forest resources, implementation of the principles of close-to-nature forestry, digitalization of the woodworking industry, development of a transparent timber market and integration of the forestry complex into the European economic space became key topics of the International Forestry Forum in Lviv.
Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine Taras Vysotsky noted during the opening of the forum that forestry and woodworking remained one of the key sectors of the economy. Even in conditions of a full-scale war, they are capable of ensuring the development of production, creating jobs and increasing exports. At the same time, it is extremely important today to find a balance between economic development and environmental protection.
“The forestry and woodworking industry is probably one of the top 5 areas with potential for growth. Every year, the forestry industry provides tens of billions of hryvnias in tax revenues, and the volume of woodworking product exports currently amounts to about $3.5 billion. But this development must be based on the principles of sustainable resource use. For its part, the Ministry of Economy will continue an open dialogue with all market participants and work on improving legislation to ensure the further development of the industry and its integration into European standards,” Taras Vysotsky noted.
A significant advantage of the industry is the strong interaction of state institutions, business, science and the professional community, which creates the basis for the formation of effective state policy and the implementation of modern solutions.
The participants also discussed the need to improve the legislative framework, increase the efficiency of forest resource use, develop digital services for the woodworking industry, and create conditions for increasing the depth of wood processing in Ukraine. Special attention was paid to international experience, in particular, Swedish practices of sustainable forest use and construction.
Following the event, representatives of the state, business, and scientific community confirmed their readiness for further cooperation for the development of the forest industry complex of Ukraine, the introduction of innovative technologies, the expansion of international partnerships, and the formation of a modern model of forest resource management that would combine economic efficiency, environmental responsibility, and the country’s post-war recovery. (Economy Ministry)