The Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) unveiled what it’s calling an “industry-led vision” that outlines a strategy to stimulate and foster innovation in the Canadian forestry sector.

“Canada’s forest products industry has already made significant progress in becoming more competitive, in tackling new markets, in developing innovative new bio-products from wood fibre and in greening our operations,” said the president and CEO of FPAC, Catherine Cobden. “However we do not intend to rest on our laurels. This vision will inspire us to go even further to ensure a vibrant path for the industry in the years ahead.”

Under the name “Canada’s Natural Advantage” the FPAC plan foresees forest products as being a dominant element in Canada’s new economy by 2020.

In particular, the strategy outlines three major goals for the sector:

- Generate an additional $20 billion in economic activity from new innovations and growing markets
- Deliver a further 35% improvement in the sector’s environmental footprint
- Renew the workforce with at least 60,000 new recruits including women, Aboriginals and immigrants

“Vision 2020 outlines three key areas for future success — People, Products and Environmental Performance — and is consistent with where the industry is going to ensure profitability and sustainability.” Said Richard Garneau, the President and CEO of Resolute Forest Products. “Vision 2020 demonstrates the dynamic direction of the forest sector and its future contribution to the economy and job creation in Canada and its rural communities.”

For now, Vision 2020 remains a plan. Throughout the course of the next year, FPAC intends to examine the ways it can implement the process and report concrete suggestions later this year.

SOURCES:
Canadian Newswire: “Vision 2020 – Charting A Bold And Innovative Future For Canada’s Forest Products Industry”
Pulp and Paper Canada: “Forest Industry Aims To Grow The Business, And The Workforce”