The issue of the sustainability criteria role and importance in the country's recovery plans, specifically in terms of forests, was raised at a press briefing by representatives of the Ukrainian government and European countries. Further, it was a recurring theme at all events and meetings attended by FSC Ukraine, FSC Poland and FSC International representatives.
Thus, Pavlo Kravets, FSC Ukraine's national representative, opened the Air&Development Meet Up panel discussion by emphasizing the importance of forest conservation during the war. As we talk about aid related to basic human needs, we must not forget that forests provide the ecosystem benefits that are essential for life. Development is associated with the reconstruction and use of wood as a building material, but we must ensure that the forest products are sourced responsibly. FSC is already offering solutions that will help to preserve forests and increase forest resources, while reducing the carbon footprint.
During the two days of the expo, the participants had the opportunity to visit the FSC stand and learn about how FSC certification promotes business commitment to sustainability, what certification of building projects or their elements is and what are its benefits. Participants also learned about the launch of a free online course on Sustainable Wood Construction on edX, an online learning platform created by Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). More information about the course and registration is available here:
Numerous meetings with government representatives, responsible businesses, architects, and Ukrainian municipalities have demonstrated a commitment to the sustainable design principles of the country's recovery, and an interest in using wood from responsible sources, including FSC-certified forests.