Buy Products from Sustainably Harvested Resources
- photo by: Collin Ackerman
Vermont producers have long understood the importance of sustainably harvesting raw materials to ensure the longevity of their business and productivity of their land; and consumers are fast understanding the benefits as well. As demand for these kinds of products increases, the “Vermont Seal of Quality” logo is becoming more respected as a reliable guide toward conscientious practices. Vermont-made products attract such a large audience that regulations had to be developed to prevent manufacturers around the globe from falsifying labels to increase profits! Producers and their consumers are realizing the benefits of sustainable harvests to the land, the economy, and the character that makes Vermont such a special place.
What You Can Do
- Look for and purchase products that contain the logos “Vermont Seal of Quality,” “Vermont Certified Organic,” or “Vermont Ceritified Organic Processor” on food, soaps, furniture, etc. Make sure the logos contain the names of either the Vermont Agency of Agriculture or the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA).
- Contact local and state policy makers to ensure that sustainable practices are a priority.
- Spread the word- if you’ve found a great product that was made with care and you enjoy, let others know how important it is to support their neighbors and the Vermont landscape.
- Shop at a local co-op or country store; they’re great places to find all kinds of Vermont-made goods.
Vermonters Taking Action
- "As an industry, logging has a negative image, but buying Certified wood guarantees sustainable environmental practices and responsible management on the resource level." Parker Nichols, Vermont WildWoods, Marshfield
Vermont WildWoods builds floors and furniture from forest-salvaged butternut trees that have been killed by fungus blight. They have been certified by the Forsest Stewardship Council (FSC) which ensures the trees are harvested with environmentally friendly principles in mind. Vermont Wildwoods Marshfield-based business helps preserve healthy forests while using lumber that would otherwise be lost.
Resources You Can Use
- Vermont Wood Network, Inc: A forum for Vermont woodworkers to exchange ideas and market their products. They specify which lumbers and carvers are FSC and LEED certified.
- Vermont Agency of Agriculture: Certifies the wide varieties of products- from socks to Christmas trees- that are made with Vermont land ethics in mind.
- Northeastern Organic Farming Association of Vermont, NOFA: Accredited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to certify organic status of foods.
- Vermont Soapworks: Provides certified organic, personal care products.