Australian 'first' for Lismore joinery - FSC certification

Granted FSC Certification for use of environmentally-OK timber

Lismore company Hampton and Larsson, has become the first joinery manufacturer in Australia to obtain international certification from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

The FSC certification means timber used in the production of so labelled commercial and residential doors, windows and stairs, is guaranteed to have been sourced in forests which are managed according to a strict set of environmental, social and economic standards, recognised worldwide and or from non controversial sources.

Until now, no joinery company in Australia was able to offer the sustainable building industry a source of timber guaranteed not to contribute to the destruction of the world's forests. Now, Hampton and Larsson's new qualification identifies timber it uses as coming from FSC-certified forests, so the finished product can be labelled as FSC-certified.

"After many months preparing our application and undergoing an exacting approval process, we are proud to announce that we have finally been granted the right to say we hold FSC Chain of Custody certification", announced Chari Larsson, who, since 2003, has represented the third generation of the Larsson family to own and manage the company.

Forest Stewardship Council objectives:
guaranteeing responsible forest management

"There are a number of eco labels around but none has the same strict level of environmental, social and economic standards, or such a rigorous 'chain of custody' as the FSC certified system", she explained.

"The FSC Chain of Custody has the ability to track through every stage in the supply chain, from the forest to the final user. It's monitored through the invoicing process, and a code on the final label on the product confirms that the item is genuinely FSC-OK".

As part of the certification process, independent FSC auditor, SmartWood, will ensure the Chain of Custody procedures are being followed, annually auditing Hampton and Larsson's premises. It is the only system endorsed by such major environmental groups as WWF (Worldwide Fund for Nature), Greenpeace, and Friends of the Earth. .../2

The Forest Stewardship Council is an independent, non-profit, non-government organisation promoting the responsible management of the world's forests. Headquartered in Bonn, Germany, the FSC was founded in 1993 in response to public concern regarding deforestation and the need for a trustworthy method of wood labelling. Further details of FSC certification can be found on the their website www.fscoax.org

Boost for sustainable building industry

Added Chari Larsson: "Timber is a beautiful and renewable building resource. Now that Hampton and Larsson has FSC Chain of Custody Certification, we can offer our customers the secure knowledge that our FSC joinery is sourced from sustainable, well-managed forests, to the highest international standards."

The accreditation is supported by WWF-Australia, part of the WWF International Network, the world's largest independent conservation organisation (formerly known as the World Wildlife Fund). "WWF-Australia congratulates Hampton and Larsson for achieving FSC Chain of Custody certification for its joinery business in Lismore", said Michael Rae, Senior Policy Officer, WWF-Australia. "This is great news for consumers wanting to assist responsible forestry. Hampton and Larsson can supply doors and windows that consumers can be sure come from well managed forests." WWF works in over 100 countries and is supported by more than 5 million people. Its primary aim is to find solutions to the key challenges facing our natural environment.

Hampton and Larsson director, Scott Coppin, advised that orders are currently being accepted for FSC sourced timber. "Our clients will now have the option of using either the FSC-sourced timber, as well as our current range of timbers," he said.

About Hampton and Larsson:
Hampton and Larsson is a Lismore joinery manufacturer, specialising in custom-made timber doors and windows. Established in 1946, it has developed a solid reputation for producing quality joinery with both residential and commercial customers.

For further information, please call
Chari Larsson or Scott Coppin, tel (02) 6621 2734
http://www.hamptonandlarsson.com.au