The wood used in this furniture is Arctic Pine. Manufactured from FSC Certified, 80-100 year old Arctic Pine. The cool climate ensures that the Pine grows very slowly and, as a result, it is very dense, "wood tough" and comprises a high content of natural protective subtances. It is certified as being from well managed plantations by the independent organisation Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC). Buying FSC certified products will encourage more forest owners to join the FSC and manage their resource in an environmentally responsible way.
The Arctic Pine goes through several stages of treatment prior to leaving production;
Stage 1.
In the first stage the wood is treated with a protective oil containing biocides. This is intended to protect the wood from fungal attack and to neutralize the wood in preparation for stage two. The protective oil used is water-based.
Stage 2.
In stage two a transparent glaze is applied, which adheres well, thanks to the neutralizing effect of stage one. The glaze consists of a pigment, binder and a substance that protects against fungal attack. The glaze is also entirely water-based.
Stage 3.
In stage three a top coat that contains fungicides is added, to protect the surface from atmospheric attack and to prevent penetration of the wood. It also provides ultraviolet protection to preserve the colour of the wood. The top coat is again entirely water-based, for the sake of the environment.
WHAT IS FSC? The Forest Stewardship Council is an international organization of companies and other stakeholders that have jointly drawn up principles for responsible forestry. These international principles form the basis for nationally adapted forestry management rules. Certification by FSC means that the forest is managed in a resposible way from the environmental, social and financial perspective. Among other things it protects biodiversity and does not permit the destruction of forest. It also takes into consideration local and native populations, as well as the rights of forestry workers.
