What is sustainable timber?

Sustainable timber is timber that comes from sustainably managed forests. This means that the forests are typically managed by stewards who monitor how much wood is taken and oversee reforestation projects.  The overall aim is to limit or slow the current rate of deforestation. While also combating soil erosion and stopping illegal logging, while supporting sustainable development.

“Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs”, Bruntland Report.

Managing forests in this way is extremely important not only for clean air and habitats for animals but for soil health and preventing environmental disasters like flooding. Forests are also a source of food and fuel for many indigenous populations.

Where a forest is not managed, it can leave the door open for a multitude of issues. These can range from local problems like flooding, environmental degradation and food and water shortages to large-scale problems.

Large-scale issues can range from socio-economic issues like funding corruption to large-scale environmental issues like desertification. Desertification is one of the biggest
environmental challenges worldwide as it results in a decrease of viable agricultural land.

One of the best ways that we can make a difference is to look for FSC or PEFC certifications on wood products. Paper, furniture and packaging are all brilliant places to start! Also sharing information on timber and desertification so people know of the problems; we often here of campaigns to save orangutans etc. but we cant protect these creatures without protecting the forests they live in.