In today's ecologically conscious market, we play a progressive role by consistently choosing FSC-certified timber. This commitment supports sustainable forestry practices and provides transparency about the origin of our wood products.
The European Commission's recent decision to blacklist certain countries such as Gabon and Cameroon for tropical hardwood imports due to ecological and social concerns has shaken many companies. However, we consistently use FSC-certified timber, so this development does not change our stock or our operations.
The impact of the blacklist on the timber market
By setting stricter import rules, the European Commission has sought to reduce the negative impact of the timber trade on tropical forests and the communities that depend on them. Blacklisting countries that do not take sufficient measures to combat deforestation sends a clear message about the seriousness of the situation. This action aims to reduce the demand for illegally harvested timber and increase sustainability within the timber industry. For many companies, this would require major adjustments in their supply chain and inventory strategies.
At De Sutter Naturally, we do not source our tropical hardwood from blacklisted countries. We have a large stock of pre-sourced timber, so recent regulations do not affect our stock levels or production capacity. This shows not only our foresight, but also our commitment to environmental protection and sustainable business practices. Moreover, we are committed to using FSC-certified timber. This means that all our wood comes from forests managed with strict environmental, social and economic standards, as set out by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
What is FSC Certification?
FSC is an international non-profit organisation that sets standards for responsible forest management. FSC certification guarantees that timber comes from forests that are managed in an environmentally friendly, socially beneficial and economically viable manner. Forests that are FSC-certified are managed with strict attention to the environment, which means that measures are taken to protect biodiversity, preserve wildlife habitats and respect the rights of indigenous peoples and local workers. This certification is crucial in the fight against deforestation and helps promote sustainable practices within the timber industry.
Why is FSC certification important for ecology and sustainability?
Choosing FSC-certified timber is crucial for protecting our planet. It promotes responsible forest management that minimises environmental damage, while contributing to global efforts against climate change by preserving carbon-absorbing forests. Furthermore, FSC's sustainable timber also supports the economic stability of forest communities by ensuring fair trade practices.
De Sutter Naturally remains committed to environmental conservation by using responsibly managed timber sources. By choosing FSC-certified timber, we ensure that our products are not only of the highest quality, but also contribute to protecting the environment and supporting sustainable communities worldwide. This policy allows us to remain at the forefront of the industry while reducing our environmental footprint. At a time when environmental and social responsibility is becoming increasingly important, we at De Sutter Naturally are committed to being an example of how companies can actively contribute to a more sustainable future.
