A global study of the forestry industry has found it is a net emitter of carbon dioxide, not an absorber.
The study, by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation, has found the industry in 2007 emitted about 420 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, or 1.4% of global emissions.
The forestry industries in New Zealand and other developed countries have been promoting the carbon storage properties of wood as a way to reduce global climate change.
Institute of Forestry president Andrew McEwen says the industry has a relatively small footprint considering it accounts for 1% of global economic activity and provides employment for 13 million - 14 million people.
