UPM, Time Inc. Receive First-ever SFI Conservation Research Award

TORONTO—February 25, 2008—Participants in a unique study of bird populations that is expected to improve forestry practices in Canada’s Acadian forests have received the first-ever Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI®) Leadership in Conservation Research Award.

SFI President and CEO Kathy Abusow presented the award today to UPM-Kymmene Inc., a global leader in magazine paper production; Time Inc., the world’s largest magazine publisher; the Université de Moncton; the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources; The Nature Conservancy of Canada, and Bird Studies Canada.

“This is a truly unique project involving the landowner, academics, conservation groups, forest companies and the customer, all committed to using research to strengthen forest management and deliver real, on-the-ground results,” said Abusow. “Ongoing research and up-to-date science are key to responsible forest management.”

The Birds as Bioindicators of Biodiversity Study was launched in April 2007, with the first results expected in two to three years. The study is evaluating the reproductive performance of several songbird and woodpecker species in treated and controlled areas of public lands managed by UPM-Kymmene in New Brunswick, with a goal to use results in the development of future best management practices.

“This study fits perfectly with UPM’s global biodiversity program, which aims to develop best practices for all of our forest operations around the world and to monitor the progress we are making,” said Phil Riebel, Director, Environmental Affairs for UPM-North America.

“The world’s forests are vital natural resources,” said David Refkin, Time Inc.’s Director of Sustainable Development. “Through its Certified Sustainable Forestry Program, Time Inc. works to ensure that as much paper as possible comes from forests that are harvested sustainably. It is important for customers to support work that will strengthen forestry practices and we are honored to be recognized for our leadership role by SFI.”

The project combines extensive bird surveys and intensive monitoring of the nests of several bird species. One of the species to be monitored is the Pileated Woodpecker, which nests in large dead or dying trees and forages in dead wood such as snags, stumps and fallen dead trees.