“WOOD WOULD BECOME MORE IMPORTANT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR IN THE FUTURE” .
This was stated by the Executive Vice-President Frans Timmermans, responsible for European Green Deal, on occasion of the exchange of view of the EP AGRI meeting (07 May 2020).
The Commissioner acknowledged the remarks by MEP Simone Schmiedtbauer (EPP) and MEP Anna Deparnay-Grunenberg (Greens/EFA) on the importance of the forestry sector in Europe.
MEP Schmiedtbauer highlighted as well that forests (and consequently the forestry industries) are negatively affected by the bark beetle, wind throw, forest fire and snow damage. Additionally, COVID-19 is also having repercussions on the sector.
Commissioner Timmermans stressed that forestry would have to be a priority in Europe and he insisted that is a need for a comprehensive, long-term strategy which also covers issues laspects related to tourism and construction. It is undeniable that the construction sector contributes greatly in the economic growth of a nation (estimated 9% of Gross Domestic Products) at the same time, according to United Nations Environment Programme, the building and construction sector accounts for 40% of worldwide energy use, 30% of energy-related greenhouse gas emission, nearly 12% of water use, and almost 40% of waste.
For this reason, the European Sawmill Industry calls for policies aiming at boosting the consumption and use of environmentally friendly materials, such as wood. Using wood in construction will facilitate the transition to green buildings and sustainable cities.
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