Good Environmental Choice Australia - www.goodenvironmentalchoice.org.au

TIMBER & RAW FOREST PRODUCTS

Deforestation is a major issue on a global scale. Many varieties of timber and raw products are sourced from virgin rainforests in poorer nations with little or no consideration for the greater environmental impact, and in ways that are completely unsustainable.

As a consumer, you can be selective about the timber and raw forest products that you purchase. Avoid purchasing products sourced from exploited resources, and those that have higher environmental loads.

When purchasing timber and raw forest products make sure they:

Are certified or verified as recycled, salvaged or reclaimed
Are sourced from plantations, woodlots or agro/farm enterprises
Are treated with non-toxic preservatives
Do not contain toxic adhesives, formaldehyde or chlorines
They are sourced from lawfully harvested trees
Are not sourced from uncertified sources

Fortunately, too, there are timber and raw forest products available harvested using sustainable practices known as Eco-Forestry. This term represents the sustainable utilisation of forest resources with a focus on conservation.

Eco-Forestry involves the proper management of the forest so the amount of timber and other resources in the forest are never reduced, whilst ensuring that the ecosystem is protected. A simple management plan is used to ensure that the amount of timber or other resource that is removed from the forest is always less than the amount of new growth, with all operations carried out in a way that minimises the damage to the environment.

For standards relating to timber and raw forest products visit the following independent bodies:

FOREST STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL

AUSTRALIAN FORESTRY STANDARD

Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) has recently developed a number of standards that cover a range of timber-based products in Australia.

Download the Standards here:

GECA 28-2006 - FURNITURE & FITTINGS

GECA 25-2005 - FLOOR COVERINGS