Collaboration and exchange in Oceania and Japan

1 May 2023 Travel report

Our CEO Michael Berger visited Australia, New Zealand, and Japan last month, to engage with industry partners, stakeholders, and certified organizations.

It was his first visit to the region since being appointed CEO last June, and a timely opportunity to discuss key issues related to environmental sustainability and contribution of forests to a sustainable development in the visited countries and beyond.

A full schedule in New Zealand and Australia

Beside speaking at several events and meeting with politicians, industry- and forest owner associations, manufacturers, and retailers, Michael conducted workshops for forest owners, certified companies, and other interested parties.

“It was a pleasure to exchange with representatives from Australian politics, different industries, and retailers, and hear their perspective on current topics,” he highlighted.

A key topic of discussion in several events was the important role that forests play in contributing to climate change mitigation or biodiversity maintenance end enhancement. This allows companies and consumers to benefit from a PEFC certification as evidence for responsible forest management.

“PEFC International continues to focus on innovation in setting global benchmark standards and has been supporting national systems and working in areas such as environmental social governance (ESG), ecosystem services, and carbon storage,” Michael explained.

With the needs and concerns of stakeholders around the world increasing, PEFC can revise and modify processes and standards to meet changing community expectations.

“As the demand for timber continues to rise and global sustainability becomes a more pressing issue, the visit of Michael Berger to Australia and New Zealand serves as a reminder of the importance of forest certification giving credible evidence for activities contributing to mitigating the effects of climate change through sustainable forest management and addressing environmental challenges on a global scale,” said Simon Dorries, CEO of Responsible Wood, our national member for Australia.

Fruitful discussions in Japan

From Australia, Michael continued his journey to Japan. At a seminar organized by SGEC/PEFC Japan, Michael spoke about the current challenges and opportunities for use of timber, forest management and forest certification, followed by a panel discussion with Dr. Nameshida, Chairman of the Japan Forest Journalists Association.

Both speakers agreed on the importance of forest certification as an effective mechanism for mitigating global issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss, and the importance of responsible raw material procurement for companies.

"We have deepened our understanding of the importance of forest certification, and we all need to do what we can to further develop certification in Japan," Mr. Nameshida concluded.

Thank you to our members, Responsible Wood, New Zealand Forest Certification Association (NZFCA), and SGEC/PEFC Japan for the organisation and coordination of the many events.