Environment

Forests reduce greenhouse gases and help address climate change challenges.

Due to noticeable changes in the environment over the years, our world has become increasingly focused on environmental and social sustainability. The forestry industry is vital to this quest of sustainably using our planet’s resources so future generations have the same opportunity. Forest practices have the ability to moderate the impacts of climate change, protect eco-systems and habitats, and lead to renewable energy options.

The forest products industry uses residues from harvesting and sawmills to produce clean renewable energy. Biological material, known as biomass, is a sustainable alternative to traditional energy such as fossil fuels. In fact, the industry is already 60 per cent fueled by renewable energy! Using new and emerging technologies like this, wood fibre and forest residue has the potential to become a major source of clean energy for society at large.

Forestry practices ensure sustainability; making sure trees are not harvested faster than they grow back. The industry plants over 82 million seedling trees in Alberta each year, helping at least two trees grow back for every one harvested.

Alberta’s forests and forest industry play a key role in moderating the climate, regulating water systems, alleviating air pollution, and providing wildlife habitat. The forest industry is a responsible steward of the environment: continually improving to better protect and enhance all the values of our forests.