Tasmanian Forest Products Association CEO, Nick Steel, says the forest industry is one of the keys to Tasmania’s economic comeback in 2021.

“2020 was a tough year for most people, but we should be optimistic about the future,” Mr Steel said.

“Sadly, some parts of our economy really suffered.  Many businesses did it tough, especially those in the tourism and hospitality sector.

“I believe that we can make an economic comeback this year though, but only if we get behind traditional industries like forestry.  Already, forestry employs 5,700 Tasmanians directly and indirectly.  That’s nearly 6,000 families in Tasmania that our industry supports.

“Forestry can play its part because Tasmania grows trees better than just about anyone, and we are the ultimate renewable.  We replant for the future according to a long-term plan; and we help tackle climate change by taking carbon dioxide out of the air and storing it (a fact acknowledged by the IPCC).

“While some sectors will need time to regain lost ground, forestry can help drive the economic comeback that Tasmania needs and support those sectors that are doing it tough.”

You can find the original media release here: 210115 TFPA_MR_Forestry vital to Tasmania’s economic comeback_150121