The 2026 COFI Convention, a gathering of the BC Council of Forest Industries, has kicked off with a focus on the vital role of the forest products sector in the City of Vancouver and its surrounding areas. This event, held at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver, is a testament to the industry's significant impact and potential. The opening day was a bustling affair, with key figures in attendance, including Greg Stewart, Chair of the BC Council of Forest Industries Board of Directors, Lisa Dominato, City Councillor for the City of Vancouver, and Kim Haakstad, president and CEO of COFI. The Squamish Nation also joined in with a territorial welcome, emphasizing the cultural significance of the forest industry in the region.
One of the central themes of the convention was the economic importance of the forest products sector. Councillor Dominato highlighted the sector's substantial contribution to the local economy, stating that it supports a quarter of forestry-related professionals in the region, with a significant portion of these professionals working in Vancouver. The city boasts 560 forestry-related companies and suppliers, generating nearly $1 billion in annual industry spending. This economic impact is crucial, especially when considering the potential for growth and job creation.
The housing crisis in Metro Vancouver is another critical issue that the forest products sector can help address. With a projected population growth of 4.1 million by 2050, the demand for new homes is soaring. Dominato noted that the recent official development plan approved by the city opens up opportunities for wood frame construction, with 800 blocks designated for five- and six-storey buildings. In 2025, Vancouver approved 3,200 units in wood frame projects, accounting for a quarter of all housing approvals. This shift towards wood construction is not just about meeting housing demands but also about utilizing a renewable resource.
The city's building regulations have also been updated to facilitate low-rise apartment construction and the scaling of mass timber. By increasing allowable heights from six to 18 storeys and offering density incentives, Vancouver is making projects more viable. Mass timber, in particular, is a game-changer, as it shortens construction timelines and helps control costs for both builders and residents. This approach aligns with the city's climate goals, as wood construction is lower in embodied carbon, has strong energy performance, and is proven to be durable.
In conclusion, the 2026 COFI Convention highlights the forest products sector's multifaceted role in Vancouver and the surrounding region. It is an economic powerhouse, a solution to housing challenges, and a key player in achieving climate goals. As the convention continues, it will be fascinating to see how these discussions and insights will shape the future of the industry and the city's development.
