Conference on Deforestation and Forest Degradation

26 - 27 May 2014. Brussels, Belgium. Deforestation, forest degradation and their socio-economic drivers are global challenges which can put at risk the global environment as well as economic and social development. This Conference aimed at taking stock of what we know, at identifying new synergies and at informing future work, in our common fight against global deforestation and forest degradation.

Objectives:

• Increase visibility of challenges and possible solutions related to forest loss and degradation at global level, identify possible areas of convergence/agreement between stakeholders, outline possible new actions in support of existing targets;
• Build synergies between key players from public and private sectors, as well as civil society, both from EU and developing countries with a view to help future climate negotiations;
• Inform further (EU) work on REDD+, Sustainable Development Goals, CBD Biodiversity Strategy, FLEGT Action Plan, Resource Efficiency Roadmap and the fight against deforestation move generally.

Mr Potočnik, European Commissioner for Environment, opened the Conference and Mrs Hedegaard, European Commissioner for Climate Action, closed it.

In the coming weeks I will present a package of initiatives that will further pave the way

in this direction and help close existing loops. We want to develop an enabling framework for the circular economy in the EU, with measures combining smart regulation, research and innovation, encouraging investment and attracting financing. The package will also include a Communication on food waste, which is particularly relevant to some of the issues you will discuss today and tomorrow: What is the role of demand for and consumption of commodities and products in the loss of forest cover and biodiversity at global level? Or on a more positive note: how can collective action in these areas contribute to solutions?