UK industry can impact on world forest management, says Greenpeace

The UK construction industry can have a positive influence on management practices in forests around the world, according to new report by environmental group Greenpeace.

Setting a new standard: alternatives to unsustainable plywood in the UK construction industry shows how to avoid unsustainable plywood and explains why companies must respond to this issue as a matter of urgency.

It also provides a step-by-step guide to obtaining socially and environmentally responsible timber, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Irish firm SmartPly Europe has welcomes the report claiming specifiers should review their use of plywood highlighting the environmental credentials of its FSC certified product alternative SmartPly OSB structural panel.

Geoff Rhodes, marketing and business development director for SmartPly, said: “Because of its FSC certification and local manufacture, SmartPly OSB is part of the sustainable and environmental solution.

“The construction industry has to make a decision on the wood products it uses and what environmental impact those products have.

“Greenpeace is adding weight to the debate as the market for sustainable wood products continues to grow.