Eco-Certified: How Spotted Gum Decking Meets Strict Sustainability Standards
12 August 2024
Spotted Gum decking from I Got Wood meets rigorous sustainability standards, making it an eco-friendly choice for your outdoor space in Australia.
Spotted Gum is a native Australian hardwood that is renowned for its natural resistance to decay, termites, and the elements. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor applications like decking, cladding, and fencing. But what sets Spotted Gum apart is its environmental credentials.
Sustainable Harvesting Practices
One of the primary concerns with timber products is the impact of logging on native forests. Eco-certified Spotted Gum decking addresses this issue head-on. The timber used for these decks comes from responsibly managed forests, where strict harvesting practices are in place. These practices ensure that for every tree harvested, new ones are planted, maintaining the forest’s biodiversity and long-term viability.
Certification Standards
To earn eco-certification, Spotted Gum decking must meet rigorous standards set by reputable organisations. In Australia, look for certifications such as:
• Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification: This ensures that products come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social and economic benefits.
• Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC): PEFC promotes sustainable forest management through independent third-party certification, ensuring that Spotted Gum decking comes from forests managed in line with challenging environmental, social and economic requirements.
• Responsible Wood Certification Scheme: This Australian certification guarantees that Spotted Gum decking is sourced from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources, promoting responsible forestry practices throughout the supply chain.
These certifications guarantee that the timber has been sourced from forests managed in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically viable manner.
Low Environmental Impact
Spotted Gum’s natural properties contribute to its eco-friendly status. This hardy timber is naturally resistant to pests and decay, reducing the need for chemical treatments. This means fewer harmful substances leaching into the soil or waterways over time. Additionally, its longevity means less frequent replacement, further minimising environmental impact.
Carbon Sequestration
Trees are nature’s carbon sinks, and Spotted Gum is particularly efficient at capturing and storing carbon dioxide. By choosing Spotted Gum decking, you’re not just building a beautiful outdoor space – you’re also contributing to carbon sequestration. The carbon remains locked in the timber even after it’s been harvested and transformed into your deck, making it a climate-friendly choice.
Local Production
Opting for Australian Spotted Gum decking supports local industries and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. This locally sourced timber travels shorter distances from forest to mill to your backyard, significantly cutting down on emissions related to shipping and handling.
Durability and Longevity
Sustainability isn’t just about the initial production – it’s also about long-term use. Spotted Gum decking excels in this area, boasting impressive durability and resistance to wear and tear. Its natural oils make it less prone to shrinking, warping, or cupping, ensuring your deck maintains its beauty and structural integrity for years to come. This longevity means less frequent replacements and, consequently, reduced resource consumption over time.
Eco-certified Spotted Gum decking represents a perfect harmony between aesthetic appeal, durability, and environmental responsibility. By choosing this sustainable option, you’re not just investing in a beautiful outdoor space – you’re also contributing to the preservation of our forests, supporting local industries, and reducing your carbon footprint.
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