Cedar
A tree native to mountainous regions from North America to Asia, cedar is known for its strong properties. There are many species of cedar but western red is commonly used for gardening purposes.
Pros
Cons
- Whilst native to areas outside of the UK, the species was introduced to Britain, planted in the UK for timber. British red cedar wood will be locally sourced and reduce emissions in terms of transport.
- Whilst some species of cedar are endanger, the western red cedar in Britain is not.
- The wood is durable and naturally resistant to fungi, due to natural preservatives.
- Cedar woods can be found FSC certified.
- The wood is usually reasonably priced.
- Imported red cedar tends to be more durable than locally sourced, but not by too much. Imports will also have more impact on the environment due to the amount they will travel.
- Cedar imported from non-certified sources and from abroad may have further environmental impacts, threatening habitats along with indigenous cultures.
Neonicotinoids
Neonicotinoids
A class of insecticide which is the most used worldwide, (ref) the chemicals protect against insects from chewing leaves and extracting sap. When applied to a plant, the plant absorbs the chemical into its tissue and expresses it through the whole of its biology, including the pollen. (ref) This has a negative impact on bees and other pollinators and due to this, the chemical is banned for outside use by the EU, (ref) the UK voting in favour of the ban. (ref) Neonicotinoids are not allowed in eco landscaping.The only use of neonicotinoids can be inside a greenhouse, although there is worry the chemicals could still spread elsewhere. (ref)
Pesticides and Herbicides
