Report Examines the Keys to Canadian Forestry's FutureThe State of Canada's Forests 1999-2000 reports on the challenges of satisfying the increasing need for wood, particularly in light of the world's rapidly expanding population, and the need to preserve and maintain healthy, sustainable forests. The report also takes a look at maintaining Canada's international competitive edge, the wide variety of pressures impacting the world's forests, the increasing demand for environmentally acceptable sources of wood and the value of the forest industry as a prime economic engine for Canada.
"Canada is an international champion of the concept of sustainable forest management. We are a world leader in developing innovative and practical approaches to issues the forest sector faces, such as public participation in decision-making," said Minister Goodale. "To remain at the forefront, we must be proactive in addressing new global realities such as ballooning population growth, stronger competition in the international forest products marketplace, and an increasing desire for 'certified' products from sustainably managed forests."
Minister Goodale stressed that a key to the forest sector's well-being will be carefully considering options to find the right balance between timber production and non-timber forest values in the years to come.
"Canadian forests will continue to have an invaluable role to play in our economic, social and environmental well-being in the 21st century," said Minister Goodale. "Our responsibility is to ensure that the forests remain vital and healthy so that future generations of Canadians can enjoy their benefits as we have. We cannot underestimate the importance of the decisions and actions we take today to protect this valuable resource."