Given the essential role forests play in the health, environment, social fabric and economy of the United States, the United Nations has designated the year 2011 as the International Year of the Forests and the American Forest & Paper Association Board of Directors have passed a resolution commemorating that distinction.
"Now, therefore, be it Resolved: That the American Forest & Paper Association, in commemoration of the 2011 International Year of Forests recognizes –
The multiple contributions that forests make to the traditions, health, and way-of-life of the United States.
The forest products industry can meet our nation’s needs for sustainably-produced building materials, paper and packaging.
With the right policy and regulatory framework, the forest products industry has enormous potential as a leading player in the future bio-economy."
"The forest products industry employs nearly 900,000 Americans, and is an essential component of Americans’ everyday lives," said Donna Harman, president and CEO of the American Forest & Paper Association. "Through our work on sustainable forest management practices, promoting policies globally to reduce illegal logging, and increasing the amount of recovered fiber which extends the fiber supply, AF&PA and its member companies are working to ensure these valuable renewable resources are abundant for current and future generations."
