An increasing number of construction firms around the world are committing to using Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified timber in their building projects. Royal BAM Group in the Netherlands and Even Construtora e Incorporadora in Brazil are two of the latest examples.

In Brazil, Even Construtora e Incorporadora is set to use more FSC for tropical timber in 2008. The decision follows from its first and successful large acquisition of FSC certified wooden doors. With over 60 projects planned for 2008, this commitment will directly contribute to improving forest management practices in the Amazon.

The company, Even, is the fourth largest construction firm in the populous state of São Paulo, Brazil. Whilst Brazil is the largest producer of tropical timber in the world, it is simultaneously the largest consumer, most of which ends up in the construction sector. 80% of the timber that arrives in São Paulo is used in the civil construction sector.

In The Netherlands, Royal BAM Group is set to use FSC wood in all its building projects developed in the Netherlands. The multinational company is one of the largest construction firms in the Netherlands and is looking to extend its commitment to its international activities.

With over 8,000 housing developments a year, offices and more, this commitment should support the growth of FSC certified forest area. Royal BAM will use FSC certified timber in existing and new building developments including FSC tropical wood, softwoods and plywood. The company will strive to use FSC in projects which are already planned, and push for the use of FSC wood in orders involving third parties. Additionally, the company will be changing over to FSC paper within a few years.

BAM signed an agreement with FSC Netherlands in December 2007 for its activities in the Netherlands. In 2007 the estimated market share for FSC products was over 17% in the Netherlands.