Plywood And Lumber Sales, Inc. Announces EarthSource Forest Products

PLYWOOD AND LUMBER SALES, INC.
OPENS CERTIFIED WOOD DIVISION: EARTHSOURCE* * *Emeryville, CA – May 15, 2000 – PALS (Plywood And Lumber Sales, Inc.) is proud to introduce its new environmentally proactive division, EarthSource Forest Products. EarthSource Forest Products includes a range of timber species sustainably harvested from Central American forests. To insure that its wood originates from well-managed forests, EarthSource receives certification from SmartWood, a third-party certifier endorsed by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council). The FSC is an international, non-governmental organization that evaluates forestry operations to determine whether their practices meet environment sustainability standards.To meet increasing demand for environmentally friendly products, PALS became a Smart Wood certified distributor in 1997. Desiring to lower the costs of certified products and to protect the forests they harvest, EarthSource takes an active roll in all stages of the lumber production industry. From harvesting only pre-numerated
trees in indigenous forests to prevent clear-cutting, to providing the lumber for the hand-crafted doors of the Berkeley Public Library, EarthSource demands the highest environmental standard as its wood moves from forest to product. By involving itself in the entire production process, PALS is able to eliminate middleman costs, thereby decreasing product costs for the consumer.Were glad that we can be the company to fill the demand for environmentally certified wood products," said Jeff Hunt, Owner of PALS. The fact that we can now offer our certified wood at the same price as non-certified products, means that both our customers and the planet will benefit. Were excited to see this positive, environmentally conscious trend in the market."EarthSource has also pledged to support rediscovered timber efforts. When The Hermitage Estate of Andrew Jackson (Nashville, TN) was ravaged by a tornado in 1998, many 200+ year old trees were toppled and destroyed. Working with The Ladies Hermitage Association,
EarthSource ensured that the timber would be cut in a sustainable manner in accordance with Rainforest Alliance standards. The rescued lumber was milled and distributed to environmentally sensitive craftspeople. PALS is appropriating 10% of the profits from distribution back to The Ladies Hermitage Association so that they may continue their restoration work. EarthSource continues to seek out recycled timber opportunities, and will continue to return a portion of its proceeds to the community. EarthSource carries a wide array of both domestic and tropical Central American hardwoods. Its domestic woods include cherry, maple, oak and birch. Tropical hardwoods include Genuine Honduras Mahogany, Santa Maria, Machiche, Spanish Cedar, Amopolo, and Gusivan. EarthSources other certified products include plywood, architectural grade panels, flooring and decking.PALS (Plywood and Lumber Sales, Inc.) PALS is the national leader in certified forest product distribution. Certified by SmartWood, PALS is committed
to providing quality, certified plywood and lumber while conserving forestlands. PALS was founded in 1983, and now services all of the U.S. and Canada. More information is available at www.pals4wood.com. Please contact EarthSource at info@earthsourcewood.com or by calling 1-800-675-7257. The EarthSource website is available at www.earthsourcewood.com.