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Supply chains: backbone of the global economy – but also risk

Supply chains are essential for the global economy. However, Europe's dependence on them poses risks – especially in times of crisis. It is often unclear where exactly the products originate, and sustainable control is lacking.

Sustainability through transparency: The example Betterwood

Catherine Körting, entrepreneur and conservationist, founded Betterwood, which imports tropical timber to Germany. The goal: to protect the rainforest through fair and sustainable timber production.

Logging in harmony with nature

In cooperation with local partners such as Madarak Curten regularly visits the timber sources in Peru. There, every felled tree species is digitally recorded. Only selected, suitable trees may be felled – and only if they are economically viable.

Illegal logging: An ever-present threat

Despite protective measures, Curten and her team repeatedly encounter illegal deforestation, mostly for livestock farming. The EU wants to counteract this with a new law: Companies must provide comprehensive evidence of the origin of products such as wood, palm oil, and coffee.

Sustainable forestry with the local population

Indigenous communities such as the Yin benefit from collaborations with companies like Madarak: They receive income and social support. At the same time, only certain trees are harvested to ensure long-term preservation of the forest.

Seamless tracking: From the tree to the terrace

The entire supply chain is documented: From the standing tree to the processing in the Sawmill to delivery to Germany. The wood species are even processed using DNA analyses and microscopic examination checked for authenticity and origin.

Certificates with responsibility: FSC and criticism

FSC certification helps identify sustainable sources—although it's not perfect. Nevertheless, environmental organizations like WWF and OroVerde recommend purchasing FSC-certified products.

Science in action against illegal timber

The Thünen Institute in Germany analyses wood samples to clearly determine the species and origin. This is an important measure in the fight against illegal logging and for the protection of biodiversity.

Tropical wood as a sustainable alternative

Despite the long transport route, tropical hardwood be ecologically sensible: It is particularly robust and, unlike native species, does not require energy-intensive treatment.

A vision with a future

Catherine Körting is convinced: Sustainably harvested tropical wood protects the rainforest, generates local income and helps combat climate change. For her, the rainforest is not just a workplace, but also home – and a legacy she wants to preserve for her daughter.