The Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) organised today a side-event on the role of the forest-based industries in protecting biodiversity at the ninth meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP 9) of the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Following the upbeat performance of 2007 by Orgalime’s industries with the volume of production rising some 5.8 percent in the EU27, early official data sees the trend continuing during the early months of 2008. “This is again a strong figure” said Orgalime Secretary General, Adrian Harris “Overall, order books are filled above average, confidence is rather high, employment is up by some 250 000 and investment plans are still positive. This means that 2008 has started off well for our industry, the largest manufacturing sector in Europe.”

Counterfeit medicines, already widespread in the developing world, are now being found increasingly in the EU. While Internet-based sales are the main source of counterfeit medicines, these products are also appearing in the traditional supply chain. Urgent measures are required to protect European patients,
including a ban on medicine repackaging.

CEMBUREAU, the European Cement Association, together with its National Associations and member companies, is pleased to announce the launch of the first ever
Europe-wide cement industry Plant Open Week. More than 75 sites in 27 countries will be opening their doors to society, including policy makers, NGOs, doctors, neighbours and the public in general from 10 until 18 May 2008. This event will provide an ideal opportunity to engage in a dialogue with, and answer any questions from, the local community.

Chief Executives from 30 rail infrastructure organisations were gathered in Brussels yesterday to discuss a number of key issues facing the rail industry. The meeting, hosted by Infrabel, the Belgian rail infrastructure manager, dealt with topics including improving rail performance in Europe and facilitating easy cross border operation. The meeting was co-organised by the association of European Rail Infrastructure Managers (EIM) and the Community of European Railway Companies and Infrastructure Managers (CER).