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Dialogue is the basis of Veracel's relationship with societ - 13.10.03
Veracel Celulose believes that only through dialogue is it possible to build a solid relationship between the company and society. Continuing its efforts to enhance its relationship with the nine municipalities in its region of influence, in the extreme south of the state of Bahia, the company's President, Vitor Manuel Domingues da Costa, has been holding meetings with the communities. He has been speaking about the new phase in the project - the construction of the pulp mill, now underway.
During these meetings, representatives of different social strata are invited, including community leaders, businessmen and politicians. The invitation to dialogue also has been extended to non-governmental organizations such as the Center for Study and Research into the Development of the Extreme South of Bahia (CEPEDES), the Federation of Groups for Social and Educational Assistance (FASE) and the Sole Workers Center (CUT). Highlighting the pluralistic nature of its activities, Veracel remains open to debate with other representatives of different segments of society. "Our community has received us with open arms, something that has substantially increased our commitment to it," said Costa.
The presence of federal and state government authorities at the laying of the cornerstone of the pulp mill on October 3 demonstrated the commitment of public and private initiative to improvement in the quality of life of the population. The includes the National Forests Program (PNF), implemented by the federal government and the holding of the I Seminar for the Insertion of Forests in Bahian Agribusiness, by the Bahia state government October 14 and 15 in Salvador. These initiatives show that the topic is on the national agenda, reaffirming the recognition of the importance of the Brazilian forestry activity for the domestic economy.
Besides its potential for economic development, Veracel enjoys credibility thanks to the transparent action of its investors and the attention it pays to social and environmental questions. "Veracel is here to stay. People may change but communities remain. And this is a lasting relationship that we must create," said Costa.