Re-planting forests for the next generation

In an innovative move to ensure that its customers have peace of mind that its products are produced from a well-managed source, Bedson Flooring & Decor is growing its own sustainable forests.

These forests are managed professionally, respecting bio-diversity in an environmentally approved project. A pruning operation is carried out so that the tree and its timber can grow virtually free of knots, which means that customers get the highest quality.

In addition, the forests are grown solely for the purpose of making flooring and decking - no other intermediate products - which means cutting fewer trees! This is particularly relevant, because the company will not process more than 10 hectares per year out of 2000 hectares, so that supply is secured forever.

Public awareness about environmental issues is at an all-time high, and increasingly, consumers are doing their part by choosing products that have a minimal impact on the environment. Wood products, including solid wood flooring, are a completely sustainable flooring option. In addition, wood flooring also has the smallest impact on our environment. It is carbon-neutral, uses fewer fossil fuels in its production, has less water consumption in its production and has a long service life.

As a member of the NWFA, Bedson Timbers recommend that you take a look at the NWFA Industry Research Foundation's Life Cycle Analysis for Solid Hardwood Flooring conducted by the University of Wisconsin. The study analyzes the environmental impact of wood flooring and several flooring alternatives. Each flooring type is compared for harmful air emissions, water consumption, total primary energy consumption and product life expectancy. To see the full report and the supplemental analysis, go to Life Cycle Analysis for Solid Hardwood Flooring.

Bedson Timbers acquired 2000 hectares of prime land in Uruguay a while ago for the growing of Eucalyptus species, in an effort to secure future demand for the South African and international markets. The investment formed part of a 300-year sustainable project. The planting process followed strict rules of the FSC's procedures and guidelines.

Oscar Bupo, CEO of Bedson underlined the strategic importance of this project: "Uruguay and Argentina, countries where we have part of our investments, provide fertile forestry soils, adequate rainfalls, extremely good growth rates and a steady economic growth as reflected by the presence of neighbours such as Shell, Botnia, Storaenso, ENCE, Weyerhaeuser and several other international giants".

More recently South African blue-chip companies have been investing in Argentina and Uruguay, showing clear confidence into the future of these two South American countries. These synergies create opportunities for the future and forests will always contribute to the reverse of global warming.