News
National Workshop Held on Strengthening Inclusive and Environmentally Sustainable Non-Wood Forest Product Value Chains in Georgia
A workshop “Strengthening Inclusive and Environmentally Sustainable Non-Wood Forest Product Value Chains in Georgia,” was held with the support of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
During the meeting, the parties discussed ways to promote the full utilization of the economic, ecological, and social potential of non-wood forest products, including mushrooms, medicinal plants, and technical raw materials, herbaceous and shrub plants, as well as products derived from them. The discussions also focused on developing a shared vision for strengthening value chains for non-wood forest products and planning coordinated actions to support their sustainable development.
Mr. Carl Amirgulashvili, Head of the Forest Policy Department of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, made opening remarks.
“Georgia is rich in non-wood forest products and home to more than 100 types of such resources. It is important that together with representatives of the UN Forest Commission, we have the opportunity to discuss the ecological, economic, and social aspects of their sustainable harvesting,” stated Mr. Carl Amirgulashvili.
Within the workshop, the parties focused on identifying priority value chains, strengthening mechanisms related to production, processing, marketing, market access, quality improvement, certification, and traceability. Participants also discussed ways to reduce risks through the diversification of products and markets, while supporting long-term strategic planning.
“The sustainable development of non-wood forest products in Georgia offers opportunities not only for strengthening the economy, but also for ensuring ecological sustainability, creating employment for local communities, and protecting biodiversity. We aim to work together to enhance value chains and strategic planning, thereby ensuring the sustainable use of these unique resources,” stated Mrs. Liliana Annovazzi-Jakab, Chief of the joint ECE/FAO Forestry and Timber Section, Forests, Land and Housing Division, at UNECE.
The workshop was held within the framework of the forestry sector reform, embracing technical sessions, value chain analysis of non-wood forest products, and group work.
The representatives of the state institutions, international and non-governmental organizations, academic and research circles, including technical experts, producers, and other stakeholders involved in the value chain, attended the workshop.