May 6, 2003 – In an effort to improve the effectiveness of sustainable forestry, a SmartWood Program workshop on sustainable forestry, certified lumber and green building is being held on St. John on May 17. The New York City-based Rainforest Alliance is sponsoring the workshop, to be held at the Westin Resort from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the Reef Bay Room.
The workshop will feature a presentation by Belinda Esham, technical coordinator for Rainforest Alliance's SmartWood Program, who will discuss efforts to conserve bio-diversity and provide equity for local communities through its certification program.
Through certification, and use of the SmartWood label, the program provides a commercial incentive for forest managers to adopt sustainable forestry practices. SmartWood certifies forest products that come from "well-managed" forests. Candidate sources may include natural forests, plantations, large commercial operations or a small-scale community projects.
SmartWood also certifies companies that process, manufacture or sell products made from certified wood, through "chain of custody" certification.
The free workshop is directed at architects, builders and woodworkers, but it is also open to the general public. The local co-sponsor is the Center for the Environment Inc. Call Doug White at 775-7843 for more information.
Publisher's note : Like the St. John Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
