Environment
The Issue
Trading in Hardwoods is a Sensitive issue. We often see in the media images of forest destruction particularly in the tropics with timber companies cast as the main culprits. One thing that is certain is that the environment in general and forest ecosystems in particular are very complex and proper debate can only suffer by their over simplification. We at Al Qawarib are very conscious of the need to support the efforts of our Shippers to operate under the principles of sound forest management and to temper the more exaggerated claims of the critics of our industry.
Responsibility
We do try to answer environmental questions accurately and promptly and we will openly respond to criticism, where appropriate, but our main goal is always to promote understanding of the facts. We believe that there have been great developments in forest management worldwide, both in knowledge and application, and our shippers are always encouraged by us to modify their procedures to take this into account. One thing is for sure, it is only a strong forestry industry operating with sound forest management (however certified or verified)that will endow the forests with sufficient economic value to preserve them for the future.
Commitment
Al Qawarib is a Signatory and Firm Supporter of the Worldwide Timber Trade Federation which commits members to responsibly sources their timber requirements and monitor their suppliers environmental performance. We agree with the TTF’s policy of not endorsing or supporting any one certification label in particular, but encouraging a freedom of choice for our customers and the consumer. Where our shippers have certified timber we will offer it but will always encourage our customers to pay a premium for the privilege.As a Company we support several initiatives that encourage sound forestry management, including the Tropical Forest Trust a organization supporting responsible forest management in Africa, South East Asia.
