The deforestation of exotic woods is a serious issue, especially since most of the countries where these woods are harvested suffer from poverty. We understand this issue, but also understand how much and in what ways international exotic wood trade actually impacts wood consumption.
First of all, international trade accounts for a tiny percent of wood consumption within these countries. According to a study commissioned by GREENPEACE in Germany, "forestry" is only responsible for about 6% of forest depletion in tropical countries. The main causes of deforestation are actually poverty, population pressures, and changes in agriculture.
Only 17% of tropical roundwood production is for "industrial uses," such as construction, furniture manufacturing, etc. The other 83% is used largely for fuel and energy in the native countries. Additionally, 81.5% of the manufactured 17% are consumed within their native countries, with only about 18.5% entering international trade. All together, international timber trade only accounts for approximately 1.1% of wood consumption.
This means that the real problem is internal consumption. In contrast, responsible international trade can actually help preserve the forests. Wood exports give forested land value, which in turn encourages maintenance and sustainable practices. It also discourages the development of this land to accommodate the growing population, and brings revenue into these impoverished countries.
We at Stainless Cable & Railing Inc. care about forest preservation, and made it a point to seek out a supplier that practices responsible harvesting. It is with this ethos in mind that the SCR Batu & Ipe product lines were developed.
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