If you’re among the consumers who are concerned with reductions of hardwood forests and hope to use sustainable veneers in doing a kitchen cabinet makeover, you may want to check with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) before choosing your materials.
According to the FSC, the organization coordinates forest management standards around the globe, organizing sustainable forestry among loggers, sociologists, environmentalists, and foresters. With global headquarters in Bonn and a national headquarters in Minnesota, the FSC has set standards now observed in 57 countries. The organization estimates that by 2013, 20 percent of American residential construction will follow “green” standards. I’ll mention a few manufacturers, but by no means offer them as research opportunities than endorsements.
Choosing Eco-friendly Veneers
Manufacturer Dooge Veneers suggests that conscious homeowners spec their veneer projects by square footage, length of required veneer, wood species, plain or figured grain patterns, and whether they intend to use FSC certified veneer. The FSC maintains a listing of American companies producing certified veneer on its website.
All considered, your use of veneers in refacing—rather than in replacing cabinets—contributes to the environment since thinly sliced veneers mean that harvested trees go farther. Better environmental controls are typically in place in North America and Europe.
Another company, Treefrog Veneer, works with Italian wood suppliers in creating ongoing versions of eco-friendly veneers. They select fast-growing woods so forests can replenish themselves. But not all countries are equally concerned. Veneer Selector recommends that you don’t buy from South American foresters and suppliers and choose wisely among African lumber resources.
[...] If not, perhaps you’re a candidate for refacing with green veneers. [...]
[...] Green veneers are a matter of consumer choice. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), estimates that one-fifth of all American construction will feature green materials by 2013. Kitchen remodeling can be a cost-effective way to increase the value of your home. The Alliance to Save Energy reports that homeowners can recover between 70 and 90 percent of their investment in kitchen remodeling when they sell their home. Upgrading your appliances to EnergyStar-compliant models and choosing green solutions to cabinet and countertop projects can increase interest among potential buyers. [...]