The European Commission organized a high level industry dialogue on March the 14th about the future of forest based bioeconomy by the Executive Vice-President of the Commission, Mr Maroš Šefčovič. The event brought together leadership from the forest sector, NGOs and academia to discuss about the role of the bioeconomy in green transition and competitiveness.

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“It is essential that the European Commission has recognized the need for dialogue with our industry. We welcome the increased emphasis by the European Commission on circular bioeconomy as a growth opportunity for European economy. We trust that these discussions will lead to an enabling long-term policy framework that recognizes the full potential of substituting fossil consumption with renewable alternatives from the forest industry”, states Tapio Korpeinen, Chairman of FFIF and CFO of UPM and EVP of UPM Energy Business Area.

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“The dialogue is more timely than ever, in order to build a prosperous Europe and achieve the Green transition. Circular bioeconomy plays a key role in enhancing EU ‘s strategic autonomy, self-sufficiency, security of supply and competitiveness”, commented Ilkka Hämälä, CEO and President of Metsä Group.

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”It was an honour to participate in the Forest-based dialogue at the EU Commission in Brussels. We are committed to playing an active role in delivering the Green Deal. Meaningful dialogue and collaboration are pivotal in addressing today and tomorrow's societal challenges. Honoured to be part of these crucial conversations”, concluded Hans Sohlströn, CEO of Stora Enso.

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”Commission’s event can be seen as a continuation of von der Leyen’s visit in Stockholm. Finnish forest industry wants to deepen the dialogue about how the competitive forest industry can support better EU’s climate goals. Leadership meeting in Brussels was a starting point for deeper dialogue with the Commission, in whose future program we want to see a strong role for renewable, wood-based bioeconomy”, pointed Paula Lehtomäki, CEO of FFIF.