A leaked US state department memo has revealed America’s opposition to British-led efforts to protect the world’s rainforests from illegal logging.
The memo, leaked to BBC‘s Newsnight, comes as environment ministers converge on Derby for a key G8 meeting, involving the Timber Trade Federation (TTF), to discuss UK development minister Hilary Benn’s proposals.
The document says the plan to commit G8 nations to source timber from well managed forests is “unacceptable”.
The G8 meeting on March 17-18 will consider adopting public sector timber procurement policies and exploring the possibility of legislating against illegal timber imports.
TTF corporate social responsibility adviser Andy Roby will make a presentation to the meeting on the positive role played by the UK timber trade in promoting the sourcing of verified legal and sustainable timber.
Meanwhile, the TTF has said sustainable timber use should be maximised within the Building Regulations.
The federation, responding to government consultation, said the renewability of timber should make it the top environmental building material of choice.
