Teak is grown in renewable plantations in Indonesia and south east Asia. It does not have to be the result of rainforest logging of any kind. Tropical rainforest is being lost at an alarming rate in many areas of the world including South East Asia, and unfortunately trees with a high market value like teak are often sought out by illegal or semi legal logging operations, who leave a trail of destruction in their wake.

But on the other hand, it’s also possible to support plantations where teak is grown to provide the raw materials for indoor and garden furniture sets, decking, and building works. By helping establish renewable and environmentally sound sources of teak, plantations remove the impetus for rainforest logging. They also provide much needed jobs to members of the local population, and bring revenue and industry to the area. Because plantation timber is a long term investment that brings steady returns over many years, it also acts as stabilising influence on often shaky economies.

Using plantation teak for wooden garden furniture and other products allows manufacturers and cabinet makers to exercise very tight quality control. Because many of the plantations are government owned and controlled, they can ensure that the timber is properly and carefully harvested from trees of the right age. Using the correct methods ensures safety for the plantation workers and also preserves the best in the raw teak.

It also makes it easier for manufacturers to ensure that the timber is stored and dried correctly to prevent cracking and warping. All raw timber needs to be dried out before being used, and teak is no exception. Maintaining the right timings and standards across the drying process is important, as finished teak garden furniture is expected to be resistant to all weather conditions and to last for years, if not for decades.