The Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC) has become Corporate Partner of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) to help advance shared priorities in the areas of economic growth, innovation and sustainable land-use management.
“In many rural and northern communities across Canada the forest sector is a critical driver of the local economy” says FPAC CEO Derek Nighbor. “But we bring real benefits to all cities through the innovative products we make as well as the environmental benefits with a sustainably managed forest”. Nighbor adds, “We look forward to working with FCM in driving an agenda which is good for the environment and the economy.”
“Canada’s forest sector provides more than 230,000 jobs in over 200 communities across the country—including many rural communities—so FCM welcomes them as a corporate partner,” said FCM president Clark Somerville. “Tackling climate change and creating a green economy are FCM priorities, and Canada’s forest sector will be an important partner for us in this regard.”
Under the new agreement, FPAC will have the opportunity to share information and work directly with FCM’s 2,000 member municipalities on policies and initiatives that address climate change and support local job creation. This includes having a role at FCM’s national Conferences that allows for real-time exchange of ideas and issues that advance shared priorities.
FPAC provides a voice for Canada’s wood, pulp, and paper producers nationally and internationally in government, trade, and environmental affairs. The $65-billion-a-year forest products industry represents 2 per cent of Canada’s GDP and is one of Canada’s largest employers operating in hundreds of communities and providing 230,000 direct jobs across the country.
FCM is the national voice of municipal government. In leading the municipal movement, FCM works to align federal and local priorities, recognizing that strong hometowns make for a strong Canada.