The Finnish Forest Industries Federation congratulates the new College of Commissioners

The Finnish Forest Industries Federation (FFIF) congratulates the newly elected College of Commissioners, confirmed by the European Parliament following a debate with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen earlier today. FFIF pledges its full support as the new Commissioners embark on advancing an ambitious 2024-2029 agenda for a more sustainable and prosperous Europe.

The new Commission will play a pivotal role in shaping policies to achieve the EU's goals of sustainability, competitiveness, and resilience.

"We are looking forward to building on our productive cooperation with von der Leyen's Commission during the past mandate and continuing to support deliver a resilient and competitive Union which ensures legal certainty for its businesses and citizens" - Paula Lehtomäki, CEO

Harnessing Finland's Forest-Based Bioeconomy to achieve EU Transformation

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Finland's forest industries are at the forefront of the bioeconomy, providing sustainable alternatives to fossil-based products, enabling carbon storage through bio-based solutions, and supporting societal and industrial needs. FFIF strongly advocates for the EU's 2024-2029 agenda including the Clean Industrial Deal to empower industries like ours to lead climate solutions and drive industrial transformation. Recognizing the strategic role of the forest-based bioeconomy is essential for ensuring clean, inclusive, and competitive industrial growth across the EU.

A holistic and integrated approach is critical, where bioeconomy principles are seamlessly woven into EU policies on climate, industry, circular economy, and research and innovation. FFIF urges the Commission to prioritize enabling the forest-based bioeconomy to become a cornerstone of Europe's green growth strategy. This can be achieved by
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• embedding the upcoming bioeconomy strategy into the EU's climate and industrial frameworks to unlock the full potential of bio-based solutions,
• recognising sustainably sourced forest-based materials as key circular inputs in the upcoming Circular Economy Act and subsequent regulation,
• developing a regulatory framework under the bioeconomy strategy that promotes market access and incentivizes renewable material innovations.
• leveraging the European Biotech Act, European Competitiveness Fund, and public-private partnerships to support circular bioeconomy innovations during pilot, R&D, and commercialization phases.
• aligning the European Climate Adaptation Plan and biodiversity legislation to promote sustainable forestry practices, including mandatory forest regeneration post-harvest to secure renewable raw material supply, enhance climate resilience, and bolster EU strategic autonomy.
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The Finnish Forest Industries Federation is eager to collaborate with the new Commission to position the forest-based bioeconomy as a central pillar of the EU's green transition. Together, we can drive innovation, competitiveness, and sustainability for a thriving European future.

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