News

August 25, 2011

Visitors Arriving from Brazil

BRAZIL: WOOD MANAGEMENT
August 30 - September 1, 2011, Gainesville, Florida

The widespread failure of forest governance—characterized by illegal logging, associated illegal trade, and corruption—directly undermines sustainable economic growth, equitable development, and environmental conservation. It puts at risk poor and forest-dependent populations, which rely on timber and non-timber forest products; undermines responsible forest enterprises by distorting timber markets and reducing profitability; and results in a loss of government revenue that could be invested in sustainable forest management or general economic development.

The efforts of advocacy groups and environmental conservationists coupled with governmental regulations and corporate codes of conduct have helped, in part, to curtail the procurement of illegally-obtained wood and wood products. Stronger efforts are needed, however, to protect the environment and the myriad species that inhabit forests globally.

This program is designed to provide the participants with an increased understanding of U.S. efforts to preserve the nation’s forests, curtail illegal logging and protect natural habitats. The participants will meet with government officials, scientists, representatives of nongovernmental groups and members of the timber industry to exchange lessons learned in the use of tools that promote legal wood procurement.

While in the area they will meet with Hazel Henderson of Ethical Markets and professors at the University of Florida.