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The European Wood Policy Platform (WoodPoP) held its Fourth High Level Meeting at InnoRenew CoE in Izola, uniting senior government officials, regional organizations, and key stakeholders from across Europe. The hybrid event centered on the vital role of wood and wood-based products in driving Europe’s clean, just, and competitive transformation.

Matjaž Han, Minister of the Economy, Tourism, and Sport of the Republic of Slovenia, remarked: “Wood is not only a renewable and strategic resource, but also a catalyst for innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth. By investing in education, training, and new skills, we are empowering our workforce and ensuring that Europe remains at the forefront of sustainable construction and the circular bioeconomy.”

Norbert Totschnig, Federal Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Climate and Environmental Protection, Regions and Water Management of Austria added: Europe’s wood sector stands at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. By harnessing the full potential of wood and wood-based products, we are not only supporting climate action and economic growth, but also investing in the skills and creativity of our people. Austria is proud to contribute to this transformation. We must demonstrate how sustainable forestry, advanced research, and skilled craftsmanship can drive a greener, more competitive, and socially inclusive Europe. Let us continue to work together across borders to ensure that wood remains a pillar of Europe’s sustainable future.”

Willibald Ehrenhofer, Minister for Economy, Labour, Finance, Science and Research, Government of Styria, Austria added: “The potential of wood to decarbonise the construction sector is immense As policymakers, it is our responsibility to create enabling conditions that support this transition at all levels. Throughout my professional career, I have come to deeply value how a supportive environment empowers companies to bring innovative products not only to market, but into meaningful societal use. “

The meeting underscored wood’s strategic importance as a renewable resource that delivers immediate, scalable solutions for climate change mitigation, economic resilience, and social cohesion. With 17.5 million jobs supported across the value chain—including 8 million in the wood-based sector—the industry is a cornerstone of rural development and inclusive growth.

Keynote speakers and panelists highlighted the versatility of wood products, their carbon storage capacity, and their potential to replace fossil-intensive materials. Timber buildings were showcased for their ability to serve as long-term carbon sinks, reduce energy demand, and enhance human health and wellbeing.

Dr. Aleš Musar, representing the Slovenian president Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar, emphasized the importance of wood in Slovenia and presented the new presidential office table as a best practice example. The table is demonstrating how Slovenian knowledge, design, craftsmanship, and the circular economy potential of the wood sector come together. He stated: “Wood is deeply woven into Slovenia’s identity and future. The new presidential office table is more than just furniture, it is a symbol of how Slovenian knowledge, design, and craftsmanship can come together to demonstrate the circular economy potential of our wood sector. By choosing wood, we are not only supporting local innovation and tradition, but also making a conscious step towards a healthier, more sustainable, and climate-friendly future for all.”

A key theme of the meeting was the urgent need for investment in education, training, and workforce development. Participants called for modern, interdisciplinary education programs, practical training, and the integration of woodworking skills into broader curricula. The development of microcredentials and the use of EU transparency tools were also encouraged to foster mobility and excellence across Europe.

The event concluded with the presentation of the draft outcome statement, “The role of wood in Europe’s clean, just and competitive transformation” reaffirming the sector’s commitment to sustainable sourcing, circularity, innovation, and skills development.

The event concluded with the launch of the WoodPoP Dara Award, which aims to celebrate achievements in sustainable timber construction.

Photo: Aleš Ježovnik / UP

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