Andrew Skeene on business in Brazil

June 22, 2011 - PRLog -- Before venturing into the forestry sector, Andrew Skeene enjoyed his success as a property developer, but when the market came crashing down, he saw a silver lining with his business partner Omari Bowers. Climate change and building a socially responsible company has paid off in the form of Global Forestry Investments, and as Brazil emerges as a strong leading market, both Andrew Skeene and Omari Bowers see the immense potential the South American country has to offer.
Brazil has been showing signs of strong growth as investments from across all sectors are expanding to their shores. During the first quarter of 2011, the country’s gross domestic product was 4.2 percent higher compared to the same period last year.
With the likes of Burger King and Rolls Royce penetrating the market, Skeene and Bowers saw an opportunity to mix business with the environment through forestry which enables investors to give back to the environment with their purchase.
“When we set up GFI we pledged that for every acre of trees we grow for harvesting, we would grow an acre for reforestation,” they explained. “Our aim is to grow 14 million trees in the next five years so we very much consider ourselves on the side of the environment.”
With the 2014 Football World Cup and the 2016 Olympics to be held in the thriving country, there have been excessive efforts in ensuring that the Brazilian transport system is accessible and prepared to handle the influx of visitors and tourists.
Energy has also been a huge issue as the need for renewable sources grows even more essential in the fight against climate change. Brazil’s government has taken the initiative to set out a 10 year plan which should see their renewable energy triple by 2020.
So why forestry? Skeene explained that his previous endeavour as a property developer played a significant role when it came to tackling the industry as many of their skills “were extremely relevant to the industry.”
The rate of growth of 10 – 15 percent per annum over the last twenty years demonstrates the strength and potential of this industry. The entrepreneurs have even been able to give back to communities through projects that allow children to obtain a good education. Global Forestry Investments is proof that business in a booming economy like Brazil’s can be rewarding, sustainable and successful.