30 August 2016

HRH The Prince of Wales encourages sustainable forest management by supporting awards for young professionals in New Zealand and Australia

Two new forestry awards for New Zealand and Australia were announced at the New Zealand Institute of Forestry Conference in Dunedin.

The Prince of Wales Award for Sustainable Forestry recognizes the achievements of an outstanding young forestry professional with a passion for sustainable forest management and a commitment to their national forestry institute. Two Sustainable Forestry awards will be presented annually, to one recipient from Australia and one from New Zealand.

The Prince of Wales Forest Leadership Award is an exchange programme for forestry students with clear leadership skills, providing an opportunity to work abroad and hence develop a wider view of sustainable forestry.

Both The Prince of Wales Award for Sustainable Forestry and The Prince of Wales Forest Leadership Award reflect His Royal Highness’ keen interest in sustainable forest management and young people around the world. Building on work already begun with the Canadian Institute of Forestry, the vision behind the Awards is the creation of a global network of young forestry professionals who are inspired to lead together on the vital matter of sustainable forest management. Extending the Awards to Australia and New Zealand is the next big step in achieving this vision.

In a combined statement, James Treadwell, President of the New Zealand Institute of Forestry, and Rob de Fégely, National President of the Institute of Foresters of Australia said that: "The Prince of Wales has long been a strong supporter of sustainable forest management as part of his interest in natural production systems".

"The Prince of Wales Award for Sustainable Forestry reflects His Royal Highness’ vision for forests and woodlands to sustainably deliver the vital social, environmental and economic benefits that we are increasingly aware of.

‘His Royal Highness has also shown his commitment to encouraging young foresters through The Prince of Wales Forest Leadership Award which is likely to be strongly contested by outstanding young foresters in both countries."

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