American Hardwood Proves Its Sustainability
American hardwoods offer warmth, durability, luxury, and design options that are unmatched by faux-wood products. American hardwood products are also a proven environmentally sustainable resource.
by NWFA
January 2, 2013
American hardwoods offer warmth, durability, luxury and design options that are unmatched by faux-wood products. American hardwood products are also a proven environmentally sustainable resource.
Hardwood forests naturally regenerate themselves and do not need to be replanted like softwood forests. For this reason, their harvesting methods widely differ. The preferred method of harvesting hardwoods is single-tree selection. This means a professional forester evaluates a forest and determines which trees are ready to harvest. This responsible forest management practice not only provides a sustaining supply of hardwood, but it also ensures the overall health of a thriving forest - including water quality, wildlife habitat, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities. This has allowed the volume of our hardwood forests to more than double since the 1950s.
Wood is a carbon neutral material. Healthy forests absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen. The carbon is then stored in the wood for the life of the tree and the products made from it. Advanced technology also ensures minimal wood is wasted during the manufacturing process. And did you know that every part of the tree is used? For example, tree bark becomes mulch, sawdust becomes animal bedding or fuel for boilers to operate dry kilns, and trimmings become paper. No other material can compare.
There is no better or more natural choice for green building and healthy home environments than American hardwoods.
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