The wood pallet and packaging industry is putting its case to European Commission consultants charged with assessing the potential impact of extending phytosanitary standard ISPM 15 to intra-Europe wood pallet movements.
TIMCON, which is working closely with the European Federation of Wooden Pallet and Packaging Manufacturers (FEFPEB) to submit its case, says extending ISPM 15 could have “major” implications for the wood packaging and wider forest industry if approved.
“As a leading member of FEFPEB, we will be submitting data and commentary on behalf of the UK pallet and packaging industry,” said Timcon president John Dye.
“This study will have an important bearing on the EC’s decision on whether or not to extend ISPM 15 for wooden packaging material – and could lead to fundamental changes in the regulations it applies to the industry.”
ISPM 15 requirements are currently limited to pallet movements into the EU or out of Portugal, a known pinewood nematode area.
“If the current regulations are to be extended, we want to ensure that they are scientifically justified; the industry has sufficient time to extend its heat treatment capacity; and the requirement for repairs is practical and achievable,” added Mr Dye.
However, he said the study’s terms of reference gave Timcon confidence that the EC appreciated the essential role timber packaging played in maintaining EU trade flows. “The options under consideration are realistic and, if implemented, should facilitate the smooth continuation of this essential role.”
TIMCON is also working with the Forestry Commission and sawmilling organisations in the UK.
