History of Teak and Its Feasibility as Our Furniture

The Irrawaddy River flows through Myanmar, a growing ecosystem throughout the country. It accommodates many aquatic life species, nurturing plants that grow along its banks and irrigating local people's plants. But in the north, the Irrawaddy witnesses and feels the effects of the threat that threatens the Myanmar government and activists around the world: illegal logging.

Teak wood is the goal of these illegal loggers. Loot teak is one of the best in the world, with beautiful grain and impressive durability. It has been used for centuries as wood that is ideal for ships, outdoor furniture, trains and an equally open environment.

When did this start?

During the 1800s, the British controlled Burma (as it is known to Myanmar), and they harvested vast teak forests to build ships and trains for their extensive trade routes throughout the world. Deforestation - albeit in small amounts - is not managed well, even when it creates awareness and demand for teak which is increasingly high when its reputation spreads throughout the world.

When Myanmar gained independence from Britain, a series of bad government antique pine furniture decisions unwittingly encouraged logging, which led to an increase and eventually develop illegal logging in these beautiful teak forests.

The first trigger was immediately after Myanmar gained independence in 1948. The government demoted 25, 35 and 75 kyat banknotes. This decision made many citizens without their savings and caused widespread bankruptcy, not only at the individual level but also within companies and organizations. The military junta which was active at the time also faced bankruptcy and switched to illegal trade in raw materials to recover their wealth; one such raw material is illegal teak. For 20 years after this trigger, it is estimated that about 20% of Myanmar's forest is completely destroyed.

This complete management error has had a disastrous effect on the ecosystem that is accommodated and supported in the Teak forest. Many native flora and fauna species have lost their habitat, and large areas of empty land have created vulnerability to landslides and topsoil is released. As a result, the northern Irrawaddy region suffered: land along the banks no longer had a root system that held it back and many of them gradually collapsed into the river. This in turn makes mud and contaminates water, affecting the fish that live there. Many species are now on the critically endangered list.

Some progress occurred

In 2014, the Myanmar government adopted a policy to try and stop the illegal timber trade. These policies stop the export of unprocessed wood to regain control of illegal operations, even if this will be enough to see. But they have caused economic problems faster in the country because the piles of wood have piled up. Myanmar is not prepared with sufficient active facilities to process larger amounts of timber, and continuous deposits have caused the price of wood to plummet. Some critics feel that this new policy can actually encourage more illegal timber sales.

How does this affect us?

As an average consumer, we can choose where to buy our wood. Because excellent teak durability is often used to make durable furniture. This has a high appeal among consumers, and rightly so. One thing we can look for is suppliers that offer recycled recycled pine furniture teak furniture. This teak wood is sourced from old buildings and now dead railroads.

How do we know the source of our wood?

In most Western countries, authorities have been formed to limit the importation of illegal timers. In Australia, the Forest Stewardship Council ensures that no non-certified products enter the supply chain. In addition, they organize support and training for those in the Asia-Pacific to help reduce illegal logging.

Consider this

Next time you are looking for some durable wood furniture that is durable or even some amazing indoor furniture, know that your decision can have an impact on the sustainability of the ecosystem and habitat from which the materials come from. Especially with teak, plantations or recycled teak is a sustainable and managed choice.