Putting principles into practice
We use nature’s riches to create the unusual and the unexpected...ideas and concepts to stir the senses and make magnificent memories.
But to sOak London, our intents and endeavours are meaningless unless we commit entirely to sustainably sourced materials and ethically sound methods of production.
Certified sources of wood
This is the cornerstone of everything we do and why we only buy timber and lumber from suppliers who observe local laws and traditions and who have strict human rights policies and procedures. All our suppliers employ practices that are beneficial to local economies while having as little impact on the landscape as possible.
We ensure they all operate in line with EUTR 2013 and the wood certification systems of both the Sustainable Forestry Initiative® (SFI) and the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC).
To further eliminate any negative impact on our forests, whenever possible we also use trees felled through storms or damaged through other natural processes. Surprisingly, these fallen giants can often provide us with some of our most beautiful and practical timber.
We have also implemented strict internal measures to avoid sourcing the following:
- Wood harvested illegally
- Wood harvested in violation of traditional and civil rights
- Wood harvested from forests where high conservation values are threatened by management activity
- Wood harvested from forests being converted to plantations or non-forest use
- Wood harvested from forests in which genetically modified trees are planted
Wood treatment science
Whether from suppliers located on the far side of the world, or from trusted sources closer to home, we always ensure our timber is looked after and stored in the best possible conditions.
We also certify the age of all our woods so each piece we produce has its own history, can tell its own story, and is recorded for posterity.
Of course, wood that isn’t cherished and lovingly cared for can easily deteriorate with time. So we’ve made it a priority to learn everything there is about preserving, restoring, enhancing and prolonging the life of our most important material.
Today, wood preservation is an invaluable craft in its own right. It’s also a science that continues to evolve, meaning we’re always searching for new, sustainably sourced, natural products that complement and enhance our woods, leading us to some important collaborations with other ethical sources.
Environmental commitment
Environmental responsibility is an integral part of our operations. We strive, not only to do our part, but also to encourage our partners and suppliers to be as fully committed as us.
We’re also very proud that our packaging has been 100% plastic free since March 2020. Sustainably sourced and biodegradable, this includes our boxes, padding, tape and labels.