Sustainability of North American Hardwoods

Sustainability is our Superpower

Sustainability within the hardwood lumber industry is a concept with multiple dimensions. It goes far beyond the idea of simply planting more trees than are harvested and preserving habitats. The true story of hardwoods is about ensuring forests thrive and regenerate naturally, allowing trees to replenish at a rate that supports a continually renewable resource.

A vital component of this story is the role deciduous trees play in carbon sequestration. These trees, whether in natural forests or urban settings, absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide. This carbon is then stored in the wood products created from the trees, remaining locked away for years, even decades, or centuries. This long-term carbon retention adds an invaluable environmental benefit to hardwood products.

Furthermore, when the useful life of hardwood products concludes, they can either be recycled, burned for energy, or biodegrade, returning nutrients to the ecosystem. This end-of-life cycle further enhances the sustainability of hardwood products, ensuring they minimize environmental impact throughout their lifespan.

Hardwood stands out as one of the most sustainable materials available, boasting the lowest carbon footprint of any building material. Its natural growth, carbon sequestration ability, and responsible disposal practices contribute to its super-sustainability story. North American hardwoods embody the perfect balance of growth, environmental stewardship, and durability.

This section of our website is dedicated to sharing facts and resources about the sustainability of North American hardwoods. The U.S. hardwood resource stretches from Maine in the North to the Gulf of Mexico in the South and across to the Mississippi Valley in the West. North America is home to the largest concentration of temperate hardwood species globally, making it a true leader in sustainable forestry.