Tropical wood feeding the future: ATIBT Forum in Milan; 13-16 October

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Key Facts

ATIBT Forum - 14-16; Milan October 2015

The ATIBT Forum is an unique occasion to meet all the players of the tropical wood sector. They will all be there: foresters, manufacturers, importers and traders. Whether during sessions in which the renowned panellists will give presentations or during round-table meetings or informal exchanges, you will be able to discuss in an open and friendly manner. Member States, scientists, certification bodies, NGOs, economists, schools, universities and many other organisations will share their vision.

The ATIBT ( Association Technique Internationale des Bois Tropicaux) Forum in Milan is fast approaching. It will be held from 14 to 16 October in this great city, which is also hosting the Universal Exhibition.

During the last year, ATIBT has been very active in responding to many of the challenges around tropical forests. The objective, then and today, is to support and promote the responsible use of these valuable resources and their products.

In this year 2015, people and the environment remain close to ATIBT’s heart, through its focus on three main strategic pillars: responsible forest management, advanced wood processing and access to markets.

The bottom line is development, driven by responsible actors throughout the value chain. Development that strongly contributes to improve food security and nutrition of the communities who play an active role in this value chain: be it forest dwellers or wood products traders.

Across the world, forests play a crucial role for food security and nutrition of rural people by providing employment, energy, nutritious foods and a wide range of other goods and services.

According to FAO, an estimated 1.6 billion people depend on forests for their livelihoods. The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs reports that some 61% of the African population lives in rural areas, tantamount to about 675 million people.

Forestry activities together contribute 2% to the GDP in all three rainforest basins combined, but significantly more in several countries. In terms of energy supply, some 660 million people in Africa depend on wood fuel for cooking.

ATIBT members are aware of this reality and have decided to share it with the 20 million visitors expected at the Universal Exposition, Expo Milano 2015. Tropical forests find their raison d’être within the overarching theme of the Expo: “Feeding the planet, energy for life”. All the more so, as tropical wood has been the material of (sustainable) choice for many of the pavilions.

The ATIBT Forum 2015 will take place during Expo Milano 2015 to raise awareness about the key role of tropical forest management and products trade. Expecting some 180-250 participants, we’ll show the world why and how tropical wood has a role in feeding the planet and providing energy for life: your life and that of future generations.

Format of the Forum 2015

  • Set in Milan, the world capital of design, fashion, architecture
  • Two days of debates
  • Professionally moderated sessions; graphs: yes, PPTs: no
  • Ample room for « B2B » networking
  • Guided tour to some of EXPO Milan 2015 iconic pavilions, made out of tropical wood

The ATIBT Forum 2015 in six courses

1. Less is more: less environmental pressure, more sustainability

It is not through the use of competing products of chemical origin that we will save the forest. We will save the forest because it has a value: we therefore have to realise that value and use its timber as a condition of ensuring its survival. In return, a well-managed forest allows the local communities to gain access to better nutrition, health, education, development. While the fauna and flora thrive. That is what “ecosystem” stands for, that is the raison d’être of sustainable development.

2. European markets, a question of will: revision, incentives, recognition

In 2015, the EUTR will undergo a revision: what do the wood federations of each European country suggest? Will the due diligence process be harmonised? Which wood recognition methods do public administrations have at their disposal? Is the public sector coherent when it comes to public procurement policies? What about “sustainability” labels?

3. Taking the pulse of retailers and buyers: the ATIBT marketing programme

Wood is the only construction material that grows. Carbon sink and harbinger of development, it is a high-quality material, versatile and renewable by nature: how to bring the good news where it is needed most, at the right place, at the right time? First step, an analysis of the purchasing climate. The outcome of the pilot study ATIBT has launched in France will be presented together with next steps.

4. Tropical wood, tropical future: designers and architects

Precious woods are high-calibre materials of substance. ATIBT wishes to invite architects and designers to «step into the forest». To touch the wonderful properties of these exotic species. To be inspired by their nuances, by the variety of their characteristics, by a quality choice that is also ecological and safe. 

5. The tables have turned: market trends and sector intelligence

Analysis of tropical wood statistics over a 10-year range, by wood species, wood product and country. Aim: to identify trends, behaviours and the most promising sectors. In a nutshell: let’s sketch the sustainable « identikit » of the tropical-to-come.

 

6. Tropical wood and African renaissance: sustainable potential of the local markets

Africa’s sharp population growth could catalyse an economic growth. A flourishing middle-class is already looking to local wood processed into decking and terrace, quality products for high-end buildings. The full potential of the tropical wood sector in Africa.

 

Presentation video: 

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Geoffrey
Geoffrey
Hello am called Geoffrey and am from Uganda, I would love to attend that conference, my interest is to find a company that we can partner in the planting of timber on a 2,000 Square miles of Land. The land is available. Thanks