Forests are among the most valuable ecosystems in the world. They provide wood and other natural materials, are a source of biodiversity and play an important role in keeping our climate stable.
The Gumax® bamboo decking boards, skirting boards and wooden joists carry the FSC label. This means that the bamboo and the wood come from responsibly managed sources. But what exactly does this label mean? In this article, you will discover what the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) does and what an FSC certificate means for your garden.
What is the FSC label?
The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) is a global non-profit organisation committed to promoting responsible forest management worldwide. FSC sets standards based on agreed principles for responsible forest management, which are supported by ecological, social and economic stakeholders.
The aim of FSC is to protect forests for future generations.
To obtain an FSC certificate, organisations must meet international standards. Among other things, consideration is given to:
- responsible and controlled forest management
- protection of biodiversity and ecosystems
- respect for the rights of local communities and workers
- transparency in the trade chain from forest to end product
- protection of nature and biodiversity
- respect for the rights of local communities
When a product carries the FSC label, it means that the fibres come from responsibly managed forests or controlled sources. For more information, visit fsc.org.
What does an FSC certificate mean?
An FSC certificate shows that the material, such as wood or bamboo, comes from responsibly managed sources and that the chain from forest to end product is monitored. Only organisations with a valid licence and certification may make FSC claims. Independent parties assess whether they comply with the applicable FSC standards.
The FSC standard focuses on origin and responsible management of forests. The label says nothing about technical properties such as strength or service life. For applications in the garden, such as decking boards, the label provides clarity about the origin of the material. In this way, you make a conscious and transparent choice for your outdoor space.
Cleaning a bamboo deck: here is how to tackle it
If you see dirt or build-up, clean the surface in the same way as wood: dampen it, clean with a suitable outdoor cleaner and rinse off. Does the surface feel a little rougher afterwards? Then carefully sand away lightly raised fibres once the material is completely dry.
For cleaning the Gumax® bamboo deck, you preferably use a suitable outdoor cleaner, such as WOCA Exterior Wood Cleaner. This cleaner is suitable for removing dirt and green build-up on exterior wood and bamboo.
The Gumax® bamboo deck and the FSC label
The Gumax® bamboo decking boards, skirting boards and wooden joists carry the FSC label. This means that the bamboo and the wood come from responsibly managed sources in accordance with the FSC standards. By choosing these FSC®-certified materials, you support responsible management of forests worldwide. In doing so, you opt for an outdoor floor with a controlled origin, in keeping with a mindful design of your garden.