Every builder knows certain species of wood have unique characteristics making them especially suitable for a specific job: superior strength, incredible hardness, and stunning appearance. But one overriding consideration is critically important when you make your choice. Your conscience.
With recent extreme weather events in New Zealand, there is little doubt that climate change exists. Anything we can all do to reduce emissions and improve the sustainability of the building materials we use is a responsibility no one can ignore.
ITM has adopted a policy of sourcing the most sustainable wood in the world. We fully support the organisations and certification criteria that ensure our building supplies are environmentally friendly.
The FCS sustainability mark
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international, non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting responsible management of the world's forests.
FSC certification confirms that the forest is being managed in a way that preserves biological diversity, benefits the lives of local people, and ensures sustainable economic viability and healthy, resilient forests for future generations.
With timber from FSC-certified forests, there's no net forest loss over time. This allows forest ecosystems to continue absorbing carbon dioxide and regulating the earth's climate.
Around 20% of all emissions in the world are a result of deforestation.
Imported timber sustainability mark
New Zealand currently leads the world in ensuring that imported hardwood is ethically sourced. ITM deals exclusively with imported hardwood suppliers that have achieved global FSC environmental certification, supported by the New Zealand Imported Timber Trade Group (NZITTG).
Destruction of tropical rainforests worldwide is accelerating due to the ever-increasing demand for timber. Unsustainable management of these resources and Illegal logging results in the loss of livelihood for millions of people worldwide and is the single most significant contributor to greenhouse emissions.