NEIA applauds certification of Forestry Services Branch as an example for other businesses and industries

For Immediate Release
January 25, 2016

ST. JOHN’S, NL – The Newfoundland and Labrador Environmental Industry Association (NEIA) congratulates the Forestry and Agrifoods Agency, Forestry Services Branch, in achieving ISO 14001:2004 certification for its Environmental Management System.

ISO 14001:2004 certification is an environmental management standard used in all industry sectors to demonstrate commitment to environmental protection and to assure public confidence in management activities.

“ISO 14001:2004 certification will help open new doors for our forestry industry, while also contributing to efficient management and building sector capacity,” said Ted Lomond, Executive Director of NEIA. “This is an excellent illustration of economic development and environmental responsibility objectives progressing concurrently. Business and environment are not mutually exclusive of one another, and the Forestry Services Branch’s initiative provides a great example for other firms and industries in the province to follow.”

Lomond says adding value to the province’s forestry sector is important, as it is an industry that can contribute greatly to economic diversification. “There are many opportunities for innovation and economic growth in our forestry sector. Forest resources are used for everything from extracants to animal bedding, and support business activity in home construction, boat building, heating products, landscaping, and in many other areas.” Lomond says forest resources can be harvested sustainably to provide opportunities for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians long after other resources have depleted.

The benefits of conforming to the ISO 14001:2004 standard can range from cost savings in waste management, to reduced insurance costs, to the management of risk, to a competitive marketing advantage. “NEIA has a number of members who can actively engage with businesses and organizations to help them achieve SO 14001:2004 certification,” said Lomond. “I encourage any firm or individual who would like to learn more to contact us.”

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the growth and development of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found at https://neia.org.

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Media Contact
Kieran Hanley
kieran@neia.org
709.237.8190