European Parliament voted on the LULUCF Regulation – Important step for forestry

The result of the vote at the European Parliament on the LULUCF Regulation proposal supports active and sustainable use of forests among the actions to combat climate change.

One of the key objectives of the Finnish Government is to promote the bioeconomy, that is, the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. To achieve this in Finland, felling should be increased by 10 to 15 million cubic metres a year.

– The vote was an important step for Finland and European forestry. We are now closer to finding a solution that enables efficient use of wood also in the future. This is very good news that eases the minds of forest owners and forest industry operators, says Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Jari Leppä.

The work continues

However, the vote was just one step in the process, and the work on the matter still continues. The processing of the proposal is still ongoing at the Council of Ministers composed of the Member States. When the Council has given its position, the LULUCF Regulation will be discussed in tripartite negotiations between the European Parliament, Council of Ministers and European Commission.

– Already at this point I wish to thank all the Finnish MEPs who have worked hard to promote our interests. Responsible forest management is an integral part of our forestry. Finnish forests will be a significant carbon sink also in the future, even if their use is to be increased.

Inquiries at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry:
Satu-Marja Tenhiälä, Special Adviser, tel. +358 50 432 2215