Réada Cronin (Kildare North, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for the engagement so far. It is the polar opposite of some of the greenwashing we listen to sometimes. Professor Byrne referred to sustainable forest management. Right now, it is far from sustainable, either ecologically or socially, with some plantations not very popular in the communities in which they are located. Reference was made to sustainability and carbon sinks. We should look to forestry to address future building needs because we have a housing crisis. Wood can be used in the housing sector as a carbon storage mechanism. In this regard, Professor Joosten mentioned the replacement of steel and concrete. Could the witnesses talk about sustainable forest management?

Dr. Moran referred to carbon farming. He said we are much further along the development pathway than is generally understood. I would like him to expand on that. Could he also expand on why carbon farming should not involve trading on carbon markets, certainly outside the agriculture sector?