FEBO, the European Timber Trade Federation, drew up an action plan for the next two years at its general assembly in Koln.
The federation agreed to strengthen its contacts with the various European woodworking organisations – both trade and industry – with a view to creating a “win-win” situation.
It also decided it would like to organise a congress every two years in co-operation with the European Woodworking Industry and the EU Importers Federation. Its aim is also to inform non EU producers about the requirements for products on the EU market.
With regard to illegal logging, FEBO said the timber trade has reacted in a defensive way for a long time and that it was time to become more proactive.
It has added a new article to its constitution, supporting sustainable forestry, condemning illegal logging and recognising independent certification of sustainable forest management and of the product chain. FEBO has also adopted an environmental code of conduct.