In its most recent report released overnight, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has cited sustainable forest management along with sustainably produced forest products, as key solutions to fighting climate change, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) Joel Fitzgibbon said today.
"Australia is a world leader in both sustainable native and plantation forest management and can help lead the world on improving forest practices. We are also a world leader in manufacturing forest products. With global demand for timber and wood-fibre increasing, we have a once in a generation opportunity to not only help Australia reduce its emissions and meet targets through forestry and forest products, but also lead the world," Joel Fitzgibbon said.
The IPCC's AR6 Synthesis Report cites agroforestry, farm and landscape level diversification in agriculture, improved forest management and sustainable forest products being used instead of more greenhouse gas intensive products, as adaption options to fight climate change.
"It's timely that today on International Day of Forests, our sector is highlighted as a key part of the global climate solution. We need better and broader recognition and support for the role forest industries can play in fighting climate change," Joel Fitzgibbon said.
"I acknowledge the work of the Albanese Government and former Coalition Government to help Australia realise forest industries' potential on the sovereign capability and climate change fronts, but more needs to be done. I firmly believe if Australia is to meet its emission reduction targets it cannot be done without our forestry sector.
"Today's IPCC warning is another call to action for political and policy decision makers to ensure Australia's forest sector helps fight the greatest challenge we face across the world in climate change," Joel Fitzgibbon concluded.
230321_Sustainable_forest_management_and_products_key_tools_to_fight_climate_change_IPCC_
