The Timber Validation Department of Forestry Commission has organised a meeting to enlighten government entities on the formation of the Broader Market Recognition Coalition (BMRC). BMRC seeks to ensure good forest governance in tropical timber producing countries by promoting the National Sustainable Forestry Systems (NSFS). The goal is to encourage sustainable forest management through international trade.
The Deputy Chief Executive, Mr. Nyadia Sulemana Nelson who served as the Chairman of the event indicated that the meeting was a valuable one as there is the continuous need to ensure good forest management and promotion of timber products on the international market.
A presentation by Mr. Chris Beeko, Director TVD, revealed that the BMRC has already been introduced to civil societies and the private sector business operators in the industry and now it is the turn of government entities. He stated that the talks of the formation of the BMRC started at the 26th Conference of Parties (COP 26) in Glasgow. The 27th Conference of Parties (COP 27) presented series of meetings and a joint declaration was signed by the six participating countries namely Indonesia, Guyana, Ghana, Cameroon, Liberia and Congo on the need for BMRC. This year’s edition of Conference of Parties (COP 28) will see the official launch of the BMRC.
“The formation of the BMRC will assist in securing market access in spite of the ever increasing trend of countries implementing import controls, businesses and governments introducing and strengthening procurement policies to ensure the legality and sustainability of timber and wood products”, he added.
He explained that the BMRC promotes sustainable forestry systems, labels and promote approved products, promote harmonised standards, encourage investment and facilitate collaboration.
The meeting ended with a question and answer session.
Present at the meeting were the Executive Director of Forest Services Division (FSD), Mr. Hugh Brown; Ag. Executive Director TIDD, Dr. Nurudeen Iddrisu; Director Internal Audit, Elisha Asiedu Amponsah; Director CPME, Mr. Cudjoe Awudi; Manager, Donor Relations, Dr. Joseph Appiah – Gyapong; Director RMSC, Mr. Kofi Affum Baffoe, Director ICT, Dr. Joseph Adu- Mintah and staff of FC.
