Sustainable Wood Products

Trees of Life

Forests are some of the richest ecosystems. They are home to over 80% of terrestrial species in the world. As each species adapts and thrives in these habitats in a different manner, forests flourish with webs of life that span from the floor to the canopy. Human also use a variety of forest products such as wood, gum, fruit, nuts and honey. Around 300 million people live in forests and rely on the resources for a livelihood. Apart from food, fodder and fuel, handicrafts and woodcarvings are also important sources of income, and have cultural significance. Forests also play a major role in climate regulation. They absorb and store carbon from the atmosphere. By transpiring water, they help drive the water cycle and cool the air when the water evaporates. Forested catchments contribute to around 75% of freshwater available for our use.

The values and functions of forests go far beyond their boundaries. What will happen if they dwindle away?

Help Sustainability Take Root

A tree that takes hours to cut may take decades to grow. If we continue our massive consumption, forests could collapse, bringing irreversible consequences. We must allow time and a suitable environment for these ecosystems to recover and persist. It is crucial to attain consumption habits and resource supplies that are sustainable. To use less wood products, we can follow the 4Rs: reduce, reuse, recycle and rethink. To encourage responsible suppliers, select products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council^® (FSC^TM). This international organisation plants the seeds of sustainability by promoting responsible forest management around the globe, so that green forestry sprouts to become environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable.