European local governments can significantly reduce tropical deforestation and environmental degradation by ensuring that the timber they purchase is legally and sustainably sourced, particularly when originating from tropical regions. To discuss this further, the European Sustainable Tropical Timber Coalition (European STTC) will hold a workshop on 25 September in Ghent (Belgium) from 13.30 - 15.30, as part of the EcoProcura conference.

Speakers include, Peter Defranceschi, Head of the ICLEI Brussels Office, Félix Romero, Regional Director of the Forest Stewardship Council Europe, and Thorsten Arndt, Head of Communications at PEFC International.

The EcoProcura conference is the only European-wide forum on sustainable public procurement and procurement of innovation. The event brings together purchasers from all levels of governments, suppliers, and policy-makers to exchange experiences and practical solutions. Participants are encouraged to stay for the whole of EcoProcura, and to join the European STTC at the EcoProcura Market Lounge, and the Meet Your Buyer event.

For more information, read the EcoProcura workshop description.