The forest-based industries play a key role in several European partnerships focusing on forest research that promotes the development of the bioeconomy. In collaboration with other stakeholders, the forest industries work for a sustainable and innovative forest industry that strengthens the competitiveness and sustainable development of the whole of Europe.
FTP - Europe's research hub for the forest-based bioeconomy
Collaborative research at EU level is a prerequisite for driving innovation and sustainable development in the industries of Europe. The forest-based industries are a driving force in several European partnerships focusing on forest research contributing to the development of the bioeconomy, that is, an economy where materials, chemicals and energy originate from renewable bio-based raw materials.
The Forest-based Sector Technology Platform (FTP) is a European hub for research and innovation in the forest-based bioeconomy. It is a meeting place where industry, forest owners and public stakeholders discuss common research and innovation requirements at European level. To facilitate targeted investments in research, technology development and innovation, the FTP also provides science-based, strategic and EU-relevant information to public funders.
The Swedish arm of FTP – the National Support Group Sweden (NSG) - plays a central role in the Swedish research and innovation landscape and is made up of experts from industry, the research community and from government funding bodies. NSG Sweden develops the Swedish forest industry's research agenda. This forms the basis for dialogue with funding bodies and decision-makers, both nationally and internationally. Through broad collaborations and research at a high academic level, the agenda promotes the transition to the circular bio-based society that the Swedish forest industry has unanimously agreed to prioritise as a research area.
Read more about the Swedish forest industry's research areas and the structure of NSG Sweden.
European industry´s trade organisations drive research and innovation
Collaborative research at EU level also takes place within industry´s trade organisations. Among these is the Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI), which both represents the European pulp and paper industry, and works to strengthen it. As part of this work, the organisation supports research and development that promotes the sustainability, innovation and competitiveness of the industry. CEPI consists of four main committees dealing with different aspects of the industry's activities, such as energy supply and climate-related issues. The committees' specialisation in different areas makes CEPI a successful advocate, and promotes a sustainable, competitive future for the European pulp and paper industry.
The European Confederation of Woodworking Industries (CEI-Bois) is a trade organisation that represents, and works to strengthen, Europe's wood-based industries. Its members include a wide range of stakeholders from sawmills and wood material producers to furniture manufacturers and construction companies. By supporting research in the field and engaging in decision-making processes at EU level, CEI-Bois promotes the use of wood as a sustainable and environmentally friendly material. This ultimately contributes to the EU's climate objectives.
Horizon - the EU's flagship research and innovation programme
Horizon Europe is the EU's current framework programme for research and innovation, running from 2021 to 2027. With a budget of around €95.5 billion, Horizon Europe ensures that the EU's work in science and technology makes effective contributions to the major global societal challenges of our time, such as climate change. This is the EU's flagship initiative to support research and innovation from an idea all the way to market introduction. EU companies, organisations and research institutions can apply for funding from the Horizon Europe budget.
