Washington, D.C. – American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) President and CEO Heidi Brock issued the following statement regarding President Trump’s official proclamation recognizing the 59th anniversary of National Forest Products Week (Oct. 20 – 26):

“The forest products industry is one of the largest manufacturing sectors in America, accounting for roughly four percent of U.S. manufacturing GDP and employing approximately 950,000 employees in rural and urban communities across 45 states. National Forest Products Week provides a welcome stage to share the compelling story behind those numbers, our products and the dedicated men and women who make them.

“Utilizing sustainable business practices, our companies produce paper, paper-based packaging, tissue, hygienic and other specialty products not to mention applying innovative wood-based construction techniques – all of which make everyday life easier. Moreover, a long-standing and voluntary commitment to sustainability across the production process has returned extensive improvements through the Better Practices, Better Planet 2020 initiative. In 2018, that dedication led to improved energy efficiency and worker safety ahead of schedule.

“There’s certainly more to capture in that snapshot. Count us in for teaming up with our companies, strategic partners, stakeholders and decision makers to recognize and celebrate an industry whose products are interwoven through our society in undeniably beneficial ways. We hope you join us.”

For more information about AF&PA and the products our member companies make, visit http://www.afandpa.org and follow us at @ForestandPaper and @PaperRecycles, and join the conversation with #ForestProductsWeek for real-time news on National Forest Product Week.