How Sustainable Is Cork?

Cork is a fascinating sustainable material that probably doesn’t get all the credit it deserves. Armed with a number of natural attributes not found in other natural materials, cork has the potential to be one of the most sustainable products around.

So what makes cork so sustainable?
First and foremost, cork is sustainably harvested from cork oak trees, without killing or harvesting the entire tree. Once the cork trees reach maturity (around 25 years old), the outer layer of bark can be stripped off the tree without harming the tree in any way.

This outer layer, better known as cork, will grow back completely every nine to ten years, making cork extremely renewable. The trees live to be about 200 years old, providing numerous cork harvests over the course of their lifetime.

Approximately half of the cork supply comes from Portugal, while a third comes from Spain. The forests are typically managed very carefully, resulting in FSC certification for many of the forests.

What makes cork so special?
Not only is the cork production completely sustainable, but cork itself is incredibly versatile. There aren't a lot of materials out there that can boast this same list of natural benefits:

• Cork is naturally watertight, resisting both mold and mildew.

• The material offers a springy texture for extra cushioning.

• Cork is easily recycled and reused.

• The sustainable material is both shock and fire resistant.

• It is naturally warm to the touch.

• Cork has accoustical qualities, acting as a noise dampening material.

If you missed it, be sure to check out last week's post for some great cork products.