The EESC is preparing an opinion for the European authorities, which will assess the possible contribution of the European woodwork industry to increase economic well-being and reduce the environmental impact in terms of CO2 emissions. It will concern particularly the implementation of the recent EU legislation on accounting rules on emissions and removals of greenhouse gas emissions resulting from activities related to forestry. The EESC will adopt recommendations on how Member States can increase carbon storage by increasing the pool of harvested wood products. In order to exchange views on this topic with representatives of local civil society, the Committee will hold a hearing in Mestre, to which anyone interested can participate, subject to prior registration online. 

Wood as a building material has been rediscovered by the building industry. It offers amazing possibilities for a sustainable growth and local employment in Europe. Advantages for human health and wood cultures are put forward while external demand from third countries is putting the European industry at risk.