UPM, Time Inc. Receive First-ever SFI Conservation Research Award

TORONTO—February 25, 2008—Participants in a unique study of bird populations that is expected to improve forestry practices in Canada’s Acadian forests have received the first-ever Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI®) Leadership in Conservation Research Award.

SFI President and CEO Kathy Abusow presented the award today to UPM-Kymmene Inc., a global leader in magazine paper production; Time Inc., the world’s largest magazine publisher; the Université de Moncton; the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources; The Nature Conservancy of Canada, and Bird Studies Canada.

“This is a truly unique project involving the landowner, academics, conservation groups, forest companies and the customer, all committed to using research to strengthen forest management and deliver real, on-the-ground results,” said Abusow. “Ongoing research and up-to-date science are key to responsible forest management.”

The Birds as Bioindicators of Biodiversity Study was launched in April 2007, with the first results expected in two to three years. The study is evaluating the reproductive performance of several songbird and woodpecker species in treated and controlled areas of public lands managed by UPM-Kymmene in New Brunswick, with a goal to use results in the development of future best management practices.

“This study fits perfectly with UPM’s global biodiversity program, which aims to develop best practices for all of our forest operations around the world and to monitor the progress we are making,” said Phil Riebel, Director, Environmental Affairs for UPM-North America.

“The world’s forests are vital natural resources,” said David Refkin, Time Inc.’s Director of Sustainable Development. “Through its Certified Sustainable Forestry Program, Time Inc. works to ensure that as much paper as possible comes from forests that are harvested sustainably. It is important for customers to support work that will strengthen forestry practices and we are honored to be recognized for our leadership role by SFI.”

The project combines extensive bird surveys and intensive monitoring of the nests of several bird species. One of the species to be monitored is the Pileated Woodpecker, which nests in large dead or dying trees and forages in dead wood such as snags, stumps and fallen dead trees.

Dr. Marc-André Villard, who holds the Canada Research Chair in Landscape Conservation at the Université de Moncton, which is responsible for the research project, pointed out that the study is based on a methodology that may inspire future biodiversity research in other Canadian forests. “The findings will contribute to national and international discussions on biodiversity research, forest certification, policy development and forest legislation,” Dr. Villard said.

The Birds as Bioindicators of Biodiversity Study will benefit from the expertise of The Nature Conservancy of Canada, a national charity dedicated to the conservation of ecologically significant land, and Bird Studies Canada, which advances the understanding, appreciation and conservation of wild birds and their habitats.

“As Canada’s leading land conservation organization, The Nature Conservancy of Canada works to protect key areas of ecological significance through sound conservation science,” said John Foley, Associate Regional Vice President, Conservation, for the Atlantic Region of The Nature Conservancy of Canada. “By working with partners such as UPM and the Université de Moncton, the benefits of this study will help to conserve biodiversity in forested regions, extending far beyond the borders of New Brunswick.”

“Some forest bird species have specific habitat requirements, and can thus be used as indicators of these habitat types,” said Becky Whittam, Atlantic Canada program manager for Bird Studies Canada. “Monitoring the response of these indicators to forest harvest practices allows researchers to assess the environmental impact of these practices and ultimately recommend or develop forestry practices that are least disruptive to birds and other species.”

“This study will help us manage our province’s public forests in a manner that respects social, environmental and economic values,” said Donald Arseneault, New Brunswick’s Minister of Natural Resources. “These forests are home to wildlife, provide us with spiritual and recreational opportunities, support biodiversity, supply us with clean water and fresh air, and provide economic benefits.”

“Since 1995, SFI program participants have contributed more than $885 million toward forest management research,” Abusow said. “This new Leadership in Conservation Research Award gives us an opportunity to recognize the companies and agencies that have done so much to protect the environment and advance forestry practices.”

The Birds as Bioindicators of Biodiversity Study was selected for its strong collaborative partnerships and because its impact will go well beyond lands managed by UPM, allowing other forest managers to use the latest in up-to-date science to guide their forest management activities and ensure they best meet the needs of indicator species.

The SFI program is one of the largest sustainable forestry certification programs in the world. There are more than 143.7 million acres (58.1 million hectares) certified to the comprehensive SFI Standard across North America, and the SFI labeling program can attest to the fact that the fiber in a product is from a well-managed source. The SFI Standard is based on principles and measures that promote sustainability including measures to protect water quality, biodiversity, wildlife habitat, species at risk and forests of exceptional conservation value.