subject: Teak - The "Green" Wood [print this page] Teak - The "Green" Wood Teak - The "Green" Wood
Although teak wood is a great choice for most any application not all teak is created equal. Some teak, the kind that comes from Myanmar (formerly Burma) is NOT a great choice as it leads to deforestation of centuries old rain forests causing substantial negative impact on Thailand and neighboring countries. This article refers only to the purchase and use of teak wood from FSC certified teak wood plantations. There are several criteria that allow teak wood grown from sustainable plantations to be classified as "green" or "eco-friendly" and listed here are just a few:
Teak is a safe and natural alternative to ozone-depleting materials and substances.
Not only does teak wood NOT contain any HCFCs (chemicals with ozone depletion potential), but the trees in teak wood plantations actually help to limit damage to the ozone, and they help to capture the CO2 emitted by millions of cars on a daily basis.
Teak wood is a natural element that requires little to no processing involved in its manufacture.
Natural or minimally processed plant based products, such as teak, can be considered eco-friendly because - in contrast to artificial materials - they require low energy use, low risk of chemical release, minimal chemical use and teak wood does not need to undergo an extensive industrial processes.
Teak is renowned for its exceptional longevity and low maintenance.
Teak is one of the most sought-after and durable of all woods because of if it's impressive ability to stand up to the elements. It's exceptional durability makes teak wood "green" because it's maintenance has very low impact on the environment and because it also doesn't require rapid replacement.
FSC certified teak wood products enhance community well-being.
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), a not-for-profit third-party forest organization, has developed a set of standards to classify and ensure that FSC certified wood products come from well-managed forests. Wood products must go through a rigorous certification process to carry an FSC stamp. According to the FSC, "certification provides a credible link between responsible production and consumption of forest products, enabling consumers and businesses to make purchasing decisions that benefit people and the environment as well as providing ongoing business value."
All in all, there are several ways in which teak wood is green and eco-friendly and when purchasing teak wood products it is important to make sure it meets these green standards in order to reduce your impact on the environment. Going green is important for many reasons and choosing products that meet these standards is not only good for your pocket book...it's good for the world.
