Yokohama, 27 January 2022: The world’s first regional certification system has been endorsed by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). The regional system, which encompasses ITTO member countries Cameroon, the Congo and Gabon, stems from nearly two decades of ITTO-assisted work.

Yokohama, 7 January 2022: The latest edition of the Tropical Forest Update reports on the outcomes of the most recent session of the International Tropical Timber Council, including the appointment of the new Executive Director, Ms Sheam Satkuru. It also features articles on restoration in Guatemala and West Africa, timber tracking in the Philippines, teak management in the Mekong, and more.

Eighteen fellowships were awarded by the International Tropical Timber Organization at the 57th Session of International Tropical Timber Council. The newest group of fellows represents 14 different producer member countries and includes 7 female fellows.  The total amount of the fellowships was USD 127 321.

Monday, 6 December 2021: ITTO’s governing body, the International Tropical Timber Council, appointed Ms Sheam Satkuru by consensus as ITTO’s new Executive Director at its 57th session, which was held virtually from 29 November to 3 December 2021. She won the position from among nearly 50 applicants.

Friday 3 December 2021: The relatively small-budget projects funded by ITTO can help catalyze funding from other organizations, thereby offering countries an avenue for scaling up impacts, the International Tropical Timber Council heard on day 4 of its 57th session, which is being convened virtually this week.

Thursday, 2 December 2021: The ITTO Fellowship Selection Panel, which met virtually this year, has recommended that the International Tropical Timber Council award 18 new ITTO Fellowships in 2021. Of this latest potential group of Fellows, seven are from Africa, six are from the Asia-Pacific region and five are from Latin America and the Caribbean. Seven of the 18 candidates are women.