Resolution Recognizes Sustainability of Hardwood

Washington, DC, May 8, 2009--A resolution recognizing the importance and sustainability of the U.S. hardwoods industry has been submitted to the U.S. Committee on Agriculture.

The resolution also urges that U.S. hardwood projects be given "full consideration in any program directed at constructing environmentally preferable commercial, public, or private buildings."

The resolution notes that Department of Agriculture data shows that the inventory of United States hardwood has more than doubled over the past 50 years and that annual hardwood growth exceeds hardwood removals by nearly two to one.

It also notes that hardwoods are net absorbers of carbon, are widely recognized to be critical to reducing the U.S. carbon footprint, can be recycled and reused, and are a renewable resource.

It also notes that most U.S. hardwoods are grown by small family landowners who may harvest trees only once or twice in a generation.

Aacer Flooring, a hardwood flooring firm, plans to use the resolution as part of the company's effort to compete with bamboo.

"As an industry leader we cannot sit on the side line and watch our products be discarded just because bamboo claims to be greener," said Aacer vice president Kevin Barket.

"Our industry has led the way for the last 20 plus years through excellent standards in proper forest management and this message must get to the Architectural and Design community."