Every presentation at the COFI Convention described BC’s forest industry as being in a state of transition. ChatGPT perfectly summarizes the convention:

The forest industry in British Columbia is in a state of transition due to several factors that are reshaping the sector. Some of these factors include changing market dynamics, environmental concerns, regulatory shifts, and technological advancements. The following points provide an overview of the key drivers of this transition:

1. Market dynamics: Global demand for traditional forest products, such as paper and newsprint, has declined in recent years due to the increasing use of digital media. At the same time, there is growing demand for new, value-added wood products, such as engineered wood and bio-based materials. BC’s forest industry is adapting to these changes by shifting its focus towards these emerging markets.
2. Environmental concerns: Public concern over climate change and the role of forests as carbon sinks has led to increased scrutiny of the forest industry. Sustainable forest management practices are now more critical than ever, as consumers and governments worldwide are demanding that companies prioritize environmental stewardship. BC’s forest industry is working to adopt more sustainable practices to maintain its competitiveness and social license to operate.
3. Regulatory shifts: The government of BC has introduced several regulations in recent years to promote sustainable forest management and address environmental concerns. These include the Great Bear Rainforest Agreement, which protects a significant portion of BC’s coastal temperate rainforest, and revisions to the Forest and Range Practices Act, aimed at improving forest management practices. The industry must adapt to these new regulations while maintaining economic viability.
4. First Nations involvement: First Nations in BC have become more involved in forest management and decision-making processes, reflecting a broader trend of Indigenous reconciliation and self-determination in Canada. This has led to the development of new partnerships between First Nations and the forest industry, which can help support more sustainable and locally-driven forest management practices.
5. Technological advancements: New technologies, such as remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), and advanced wood processing techniques, are transforming the forest industry. BC’s companies are investing in these technologies to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and produce innovative wood products that meet the demands of the global market.
6. Workforce challenges: The BC forest industry is facing a labor shortage due to an aging workforce and a lack of skilled workers entering the sector. To address this issue, the industry is working to attract new talent, enhance training programs, and improve working conditions.

In summary, the forest industry in British Columbia is undergoing a transition driven by a combination of market shifts, environmental and regulatory pressures, technological advancements, and workforce challenges. To remain competitive and sustainable, the industry must continue to adapt to these changes and embrace new opportunities in the evolving global market.