Carbon forestry is at the crossroads

It’s that time of year again! Carbon Forestry 2025 is New Zealand’s premier event for the sector. Last year, the event hosted over 250 industry leaders, and in 2025, with the stakes higher than ever, you won’t want to miss it. Join us on 19-20 August 2025 in Rotorua, New Zealand. For our international guests, virtual tickets will also be available.

The new report from the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, ‘Alt-F Reset: Examining the drivers of forestry in New Zealand‘, raises critical questions about carbon forestry’s role within the ETS. This report highlights that NZ’s current heavy reliance on a single species carries both economic and environmental risks.

NZFOA chief executive, Dr Elizabeth Heeg, notes that while the new report raises important considerations for land use adaptation in a changing climate, some of its recommendations could be counterintuitive to progressing climate action.

“Climate action is urgently needed, and as it stands, there is a question mark over New Zealand meeting its 2050 emissions targets,” Elizabeth states. “Forestry remains at the centre of any future success, so it makes no sense to limit the tools we do have available. Pulling back from the ETS without a tangible, alternative approach is risky at best.”

Carbon Forestry is clearly at a crossroads, demanding decisive action to address current challenges and unlock future opportunities. Hear directly from key figures shaping this discussion, including NZFOA’s Dr. Elizabeth Heeg, Hon Simon Watts, Minister of Climate Change, and leading experts from the Climate Change Commission.

Register now to be part of shaping a sustainable future for the sector.

Early Bird & Group Discounts!

Early bird discounts and special group rates are available to those attending the event in Rotorua, New Zealand. Virtual online rates for those outside New Zealand have also been set up. Registrations can be made directly on the event website.

We also have a few complimentary places available – courtesy of WIDE Trust. The Wood Industry Development and Education (WIDE) Trust is investing in the education and development of the next generation of leaders. To qualify, you must be under the age of 35 years, not already registered and have not previously received a WIDE Trust place for any past FIEA events. These places will be offered on a first-come/first served basis – by contacting Gordon Thomson, gordon.thomson@innovatek.co.nz / (+64) 27 275 8022.