Sustainability is important, and the concerted effort of American and Canadian pallet manufacturers to keep the industry responsible has paid off. In Summer 2020, wood pallets received an Environmental Product Declaration which recognizes the environmental benefits of using wooden pallets in the supply chain. This third-party designation means that the industry has met stringent benchmarks for sustainability, such as the replenishment of trees in deforested areas.

Historically, the demand for wood products has put a strain on forests around the world. Unsustainable logging practices have led to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and the release of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere.

When it comes to pallet manufacturing, however, this strain is mitigated by sustainable forestry practices, ensuring a cleaner and greener future for everyone.

Wood pallet manufacturing requires the felling of trees, but responsible practices ensure that those trees are replaced by saplings and that the lifecycle of a wood pallet includes reuse and recycling.

The Lifecycle of a Wood Pallet

At Troymill, we implement sustainable lumber practices that ensure our manufacturing processes have a minimal impact on the environment. Here’s what the lifecycle of a typical Troymill pallet looks like.

Harvesting lumber

We fell trees from our own private stock and replace them with saplings that will grow into adult trees which can then go on to be harvested. This ensures that our activities are confined to areas where we can control and oversee the replacement of trees.

Transport to sawmill

Our stock is located close by, which cuts down on the emissions required to transport the lumber to our sawmill.

Production

We utilize as much of the lumber as possible to produce our pallets, Minimizing wastage where we can. We make stock sizes as well as custom pallets.

Shipping

Pallets are then delivered or collected by our customers and put into use. Pallets can sometimes be used as many as 15 times if they are properly cared for and repaired when necessary.

Recycling

The Environmental Product Declaration was issued based on one-time use of pallets. Because pallets can be used up to 15 times, it’s possible that the environmental benefits are multiplied and amplify the climate positive effects. Pallets at the end of their life are also recycled, ensuring the material is used to its fullest potential.

Harvesting new lumber

Trees that were planted are now ready to be harvested, and the cycle begins again.

Benefits of Sustainable Lumber

Sustainable lumber has numerous benefits, both for the environment and the economy.

Environmental Benefits

Reduced Carbon Footprint

Sustainable forestry practices can help reduce the carbon footprint of the logging industry. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and sustainable forestry practices ensure that new trees are planted to replace those that have been harvested. By using sustainable lumber, you are supporting the growth of new trees and reducing the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Preservation of Natural Habitats

Sustainable forestry practices also help preserve natural habitats. Clearcutting and other unsustainable logging practices can disrupt the ecosystem and cause harm to wildlife. Sustainable forestry practices, on the other hand, promote the health of the forest and the surrounding ecosystem, ensuring that wildlife habitats are preserved.

Reduced Water Usage

Water is an essential resource in the logging industry, and unsustainable logging practices can lead to water waste and pollution. Sustainable forestry practices, on the other hand, promote responsible water usage and help protect water sources. By using sustainable lumber, you are supporting responsible water usage and helping to protect our water resources.

Reduced Waste

Sustainable forestry practices also help reduce waste. Trees that are harvested are used for a variety of products, including lumber, paper, and other wood products. Sustainable forestry practices ensure that as much of the tree as possible is used, reducing waste and promoting responsible resource usage.

Economic Benefits

Job Creation

Sustainable forestry practices can create jobs in the logging industry. By supporting companies that use sustainable lumber, you are supporting job creation and economic growth in the industry.

Long-Term Cost Savings

Finally, the use of sustainable lumber can also lead to long-term cost savings. Sustainable forestry practices ensure that forests are managed in a way that promotes the long-term health of the ecosystem. This can lead to a more stable supply of wood products and lower costs over time.

A Positive Impact

By choosing a pallet company with sustainable lumber, you are not only making a positive impact on the environment but also supporting responsible businesses. At Troymill we are dedicated to balancing our sustainability with providing top-notch customer service. For more information on how we do our share for the environment, or for details on the standard sized and custom pallets we offer, feel free to get in touch with us today.