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.
Sapele
Sapele
A member of the same genus as mahogany, Sapele has many of the same qualities, including colour and strength. It has become more popular as mahogany has become harder to obtain.
Pros
Cons
- Sapele can be FSC certified, being sourced from more environmentally sustainable areas and ensuring the species continues into the future. (ref)
- The wood is very durable, similar to Oak. (ref) This means it will last longer than other woods in the garden.
- Sapele is classified as a vulnerable species by the IUNC. (ref) Meaning its continued use may lead it to becoming extinct.
- The trees are native to West Africa, (ref) and will need to travel from this area, meaning the wood will use a fair amount of energy and fuel to arrive in the UK, and depending on the fuel type, this will release CO2 into the air.
- Sourcing has been an issue in the past, before EUTR, most coming from illegal logging. Unless third party certified, the wood may be obtained in a similar manner. (ref)
Sapele Summary
Whilst this wood is a durable material and can be sourced from an FSC certified source, the fact it is vulnerable and need to travel so far to get into the UK can be problematic on a sustainability. Spell is classified as a vulnerable species by the IUC meaning its continued use may lead to its\extinction. Due to this, alternatives such as local Oak or Cedar may offer the same properties, but with less environmental damage.
