FSC Vs. SFI

Forest Stewardship Council

FSC

* Never harvests more than what grows back

* Protects biodiversity and endangered species

* Saves rare ancient trees

* Guards local streams

* Supports the local people

* Uses narrow skidding trails so as not to disrupt the rest of the forest

* Prohibits replacement by tree plantations

* Bans toxic chemicals

* Bans genetically modified trees (no GMO)

FSC3

The question of from whom and where to source sustainable building products is rapidly becoming more and more of a hot topic. As we continue to witness rapid increases in the destruction of our primary forests we as builders are left with decisions that will affect the very future of our planetary health!

Sustainable Forestry Initiative

SFI

* Allows large clearcuts

* Allows logging close to rivers and streams that harms water supplies

* Allows use of toxic chemicals

* Allows conversion of old-growth forests to tree plantations

* Allows use of genetically modified trees

Materials

Where do they come from?

It is important to ensure that our building materials come from sources that are environmentally conscientious. This means from sources that use the best practices possible to conserve, reduce, and replenish what they take while taking into consideration the natural systems at play. Also, are the forest sources irreplaceable old-growths or sustainable tree farms.

Best Practices

How are materials being acquired?

Protecting the sustainability of our resources also means using non-chemical, less harsh, and more bio-dynamic methods of resource extraction. An example of this in the forestry industry would be adopting improved silvicultural tactics such as multi-level stands vs. clear cuts, or using less aggressive, more spongy wheels on their harvesting machines.