A timber company in Chile won the “Leaders for a Living Planet” award for their conservation efforts protecting their nation’s coastal forests. Masisa’s corporate spokesman said, “Like all companies we are in business to make a profit, but our objective is not to obtain this profit at whatever cost."…

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The World Wildlife Fund recognized Masisa’s pledge to strengthen the Forest Stewardship Council certification system in Chile — under which they have managed their plantations since 2004 — as well as their commitment to identify forests of high value in their portfolio creating more protected areas.

“We have incorporated respect for the environment and local communities as common business practice. We hope to be good neighbours with those who inhabit the forest," said the Masisa spokesman at an award ceremony last week.

The Mapu Lahual Indigenous Association, located along the coastal range of Chile’s Osorno Province, was also recognized for its efforts towards the conservation of temperate rainforests on their ancestral land, and for the creation of the first network on indigenous parks in Chile. The association is also undertaking ecotourism projects that seek to promote the value of the forest and coastal ecosystems within their territory, while gaining economic benefits for the communities.

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