Forest NB visits Finland

In October 2024, Forest NB led a dynamic innovation tour to Finland, a journey focused on enhancing collaborative efforts to grow a strong future for communities across New Brunswick through sustainable forestry. This visit serves not only as a cultural exchange – but a strategic initiative to learn from Finland’s renowned forestry practices. The attendees comprised industry leaders, educators, public servants and  decisionmakers who participated in a series of workshops and site visits.  We engaged with Finnish experts to explore innovative techniques in forest management, advanced integration of systems and technology, social license and public participation, and effective policies that promote healthy forest ecosystems while balancing economic needs.

Highlights of the trip included visits to a variety of managed stands in various stages of growth and state-of-the-art bioenergy facilities, both large and small, where participants witnessed firsthand Finland’s commitment to maximising the public well-being generated by their forests. The group eagerly engaged in the many opportunities to network with local policymakers, researchers, professionals, and stakeholders, fostering relationships that will continue to benefit the forest sectors in Atlantic Canada and Finland.

This visit reinforced the importance of global cooperation in addressing our shared challenges and opportunities, strengthened international ties, and provided a blueprint for potential innovations in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The group returned inspired and equipped with new ideas! Forest NB intends to share knowledge and experiences about best practices in Finland, with the intent to benefit forest management and cooperative efforts in New Brunswick.

You can read more from the visit here: https://www.forestnb.com/2024finland/