More than 60 people attended a UK Tropical Forest Forum-led consultation meeting on the government procurement of timber products from ‘legal and sustainable sources’ at DEFRA’s offices in London on Monday, March 25.
Consultants Environmental Resources Management (ERM) have been commissioned by DEFRA to assess the diverse range of current government procurement practices. They were also asked to recommend methods for implementation, including assessment of claims of sustainable management.
On March 25 they presented their findings to date and invited stakeholders to comment. The consultation period ran until April 5.
Among those present was Len Yull of the Forestry and Timber Association. He said: ‘It was a very constructive discussion with people present from all over the world. We await the findings with interest.’
Dr Penny Bienz, head of environmental affairs at the Timber Trade Federation said the TTF has put forward a package highlighting its Code of Conduct as a base line for timber procurement.
She added: ‘What will need to be considered within the purchasing strategy is training of the procurement staff as that is where the system could fall down.’
A DEFRA spokesperson said a report of the findings will be posted on the website www.forestforum.org.uk sometimes after April 5.
