Jul 19, 2014. /Lesprom Network/. The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) adopted its opinion on the Commission’s new EU forest strategy. Receiving full support at the 500th EESC plenary session, the document highlights the importance of the new EU Forest Strategy against the backdrop of growing demands on forestry and forests, as The Confederation of European Forest Owners (CEPF) said in the press release received by Lesprom Network.

Developed by the rapporteurs, Seppo Kallio (FIN) and Brendan Burns (SCO), the EESC opinion was well received by the Plenary and adopted without rejections. Against the backdrop of growing demands on and threats to forests, as well as many EU sectorial policies and associated rules affecting forestry and forests, the Committee considers a new EU Forest Strategy as sorely needed.

While agreeing with the Commission communication for most parts, the EESC has a different viewpoint and certain concerns on various issues, including the potential introduction of legally binding rules for prioritising the uses of wood, the compulsory integration of forest management plans with Natura 2000 management plans, and the development of new Sustainable Forest Management Criteria.

CEPF highly welcomes the EESC opinion and shares the views contained. With an opinion by the European Parliament still to be developed, the EESC opinion provides an important reference. Further it will help the European Commission and the Member States to ensure an effective and efficient implementation.

The Confederation of European Forest Owners (CEPF) is the umbrella association of national forest owner organizations in Europe. It works as the representative of family forestry in Europe, by promoting the values of sustainable forest management, private property ownership and the economic viability of the forest holding.