Today (21 March) is the United Nations International Day of Forests, an important day to raise awareness of forest habitats and encourage local, national and international efforts to protect and restore forests.
The theme for 2024 is Forests and Innovation: New Solutions for a Better World.
Head of Forestry in the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Matt Lowe said innovation was vital to Australia’s forestry future.
“Australia’s forests are recognised and valued for their diverse ecosystems, unique biodiversity, and the forest products that they produce” Mr Lowe said.
“They provide a wide range of benefits, including environmental, economic, and cultural.
“It is important that we investigate and implement more innovative ways to grow Australia’s plantation estate and through that work enhance the future of Australia’s forestry industry.
“Last week the Australian Government launched the $100 million Australian Forest and Wood Innovations (AFWI), in partnership with the University of Tasmania.
“AFWI will put Australia’s forest and wood products industries on the front foot, supporting applied research, development and innovation.
“It will create opportunities for research and innovation to support the sectors’ future, building on the work delivered through the regional ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Institute for Forest Products Innovation.
“It is an exciting time for forestry research in Australia as we work towards unlocking the full potential of wood as the ultimate renewable material and growing our forests and forestry industry.”
The department will participate in the FAO Asia-Pacific Forests and Innovation Panel as part of the International Day of Forests. The department hosted the FAO Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission in October 2023, the region’s key forum promoting coordination on forests issues.
