Certified Lumber

What does “well-managed forests” mean and why is it important?

Because of long-standing forest clearcutting practices, wood as a resource attained a negative stigma, but newer responsible management shows that wood can indeed be a building material that is both sustainable and economical. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) states that its job is to develop standards for protecting biodiversity, wildlife, and timber resources, discouraging the production and sales of “illegal and irresponsibly harvested wood.”

FSC provides the means for consumers to purchase timber that does not contribute to habitat loss, displacement of indigenous peoples, water pollution, and violence against humans and wildlife. “Well-managed forests” must follow rigid standards in order to qualify for this certification.

Forests can take centuries to millennia to reach their final stages of succession.

Can I acquire certified lumber? How much does it cost?

It’s easy to find FSC-certified products. Just look in any home improvement store or local lumber stockyard. Price is based on availability, but generally FSC-branded products cost about the same as uncertified products. Not all certifications are the same, so watch out for other “certified” lumber that is not FSC. There are many “sustainable forestry” labels that are misleading or exaggerated.