We aim to obtain all our timber from ecologically managed forests and our preferred suppliers have sustainability certification.
What does sustainable mean?
For timbers to be sustainable a tree must be planted for every one that is harvested and the forest must maintain its ecological integrity.
The universally recognised sustainability accreditation scheme is the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This international non-profit organisation promotes responsible management of the world’s forests and finds solutions to the problems created by poor forestry practices.
Buying a flooring product bearing the FSC logo means it has been legally harvested from a responsibly managed forest; that the rights of the indigenous communities and forest workers were respected; that the local biodiversity and endangered wildlife habitats were unharmed and that ecologically-friendly practices were employed throughout its production, manufacture and distribution. This ensures responsible management from raw material to the finished product.
At Swinard Wooden Floors we ensure we do not contribute to global deforestation and that we also help to maintain New Zealand’s native forest landscape for future generations. For example, by encouraging the use of recycled timber, such as Rimu purchased from reputable demolition yards, we are not only recycling but up-cycling as the timber is re-milled and enhanced by our beautiful coatings. Bamboo is also a great renewable flooring option. Good quality bamboo is not only stable and hard wearing but comes in a wide variety of colours. Bamboo grows to full maturity in just five years, as opposed to the 30-50 years of hardwoods.
