There is no getting around the fact that wood is the primary component of deck construction. We require its natural properties to build strong flexible frames and we enjoy its rich appearance. In the case of decks we simply cannot do without; so what can we do to help protect the environment. We feel it is the deck designer’s responsibility to learn where and how our wood is harvested and make educated decisions as to how we select and purchase our materials.

Our forests are prone to irresponsible exploitation from commercial logging. Buying certified forest products allows you the piece of mind in knowing that it comes from managed forests that meet guidelines for responsible harvesting and environmental conservation. Many kinds of exotic hardwood decking are stripped from the South American rainforests. These materials should be carefully researched and thoughtfully considered before you lend the suppliers your support by making a purchase. Deforestation will ultimately lead to the loss of biodiversity, intensify flooding and dangerously affect global climate change. Estimates of rainforest destruction range up to 120,000 square kilometers per year, at this pace all our tropical rainforests will be gone by 2090.