ARTICLES
IWF WOODWORKING TODAY
The design choice between exotic and domestic wood species has long been pivotal, blending aesthetics with sustainability considerations. Recently, there has been a notable surge in the utilization of exotic wood species in modern design elements, particularly within the hospitality sector. This trend is not merely about creating visually striking spaces but also about integrating sustainability practices into the design process.
July 10, 2024 | Dan Wellens
WPE Lancaster
MANHEIM, Pa. — Live Edge Slabs Costa Rica will showcase product samples at Wood Pro Expo Lancaster, Oct. 24-24, at Spooky Nook Sports.
IWF ATLANTA 2024
MANHEIM, Pa. — Live Edge Slabs Costa Rica will showcase product samples at Wood Pro Expo Lancaster, Oct. 24-24, at Spooky Nook Sports.
Toronto Woodworking Show 2024
We’re excited to welcome Live Edge Slabs Costa Rica to the Toronto Woodworking Show from January 17-19, 2025, at the International Centre!
Flying in from Costa Rica, they’ll showcase their premium live edge slabs, renowned for their quality, sustainability, and craftsmanship. They actively seek trade partnerships with woodworking businesses, builders, furniture makers, and retailers interested in working with their exceptional wood products.
Are you looking to expand your product line or enhance your custom woodworking projects? Stop by their booth to explore how their live edge slabs can elevate your business while helping you save time and money without sacrificing quality.
🌿 Costa Rica Leads the Way in Forest Recovery and Sustainable Wood Practices
Costa Rica is setting a global example in forest regeneration and sustainability. According to La Nación and data from the World Bank and State of the Region Report, the country has seen a remarkable increase in forest cover—from 47% to 60% of its landmass in just two decades. This makes Costa Rica the most forested nation in Central America.
This reforestation success is a result of deliberate government action, including the Payment for Environmental Services (PSA) program, which incentivizes landowners to preserve native forests rather than exploit them. Combined with a significant reduction in cattle grazing and a rise in eco-conscious forestry practices, Costa Rica has created a thriving model of environmental stewardship.
Costa Rica Celebrates EU’s Low-Risk Deforestation Classification
Costa Rica has been officially designated as a "low-risk" country under the European Union’s Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR), a significant achievement that will ease export procedures for key commodities such as coffee, cocoa, and timber . This classification, announced on May 22, 2025, by the European Commission, is part of the EUDR's efforts to combat global deforestation by assessing countries' risk levels associated with the production of seven major commodities
What the Low-Risk Status Means
Under the EUDR, countries are categorized based on their deforestation risk levels. Being classified as "low-risk" means that Costa Rican exporters will benefit from simplified due diligence requirements when exporting to EU markets. This reduces bureaucratic hurdles and compliance costs, providing a competitive advantage over producers from higher-risk countries .Tico Times
How Costa Rica Achieved This Status
Costa Rica's journey to this recognition is rooted in decades of environmental commitment. In the 1980s, forest cover had dwindled to about 25% due to logging and agriculture. Through initiatives like a deforestation ban, investments in eco-tourism, and the Payments for Environmental Services (PES) program—which compensates landowners for forest conservation—the country has increased its forest cover to nearly 60% .Tico Times
In 2023, the establishment of the Green Pact Technical Roundtable, comprising government ministries, farmers, businesses, and academics, played a crucial role. This group compiled comprehensive data to demonstrate Costa Rica's commitment to sustainable practices, aiding in securing the low-risk classification .Tico Times
Regional and Global Significance
Costa Rica stands out as the only Central American nation to receive this low-risk status, joining a select group in Latin America that includes Chile and Uruguay . This distinction not only enhances the country's export potential but also reinforces its reputation as a leader in environmental sustainability.Tico Times
For more detailed information, you can read the full article here: Tico Times.
🌱 What This Means for the Wood Industry
The positive shift in forest coverage is not just about conservation—it’s also about creating a sustainable foundation for the wood industry. Rather than relying on deforestation, Costa Rica promotes the use of wood from trees that have died naturally or come from managed reforestation projects. This approach helps prevent carbon release while maintaining biodiversity.
For companies like LiveEdgeSlabsCostaRica.com, this aligns perfectly with our mission:
We hand-select sustainable, ethically sourced live edge slabs from forests that are being preserved, not depleted. Our work supports the long-term health of Costa Rica’s ecosystems while showcasing the natural beauty and character of wood.
🌎 A Model for the Future
This model of reforestation, forest protection, and sustainable economic use of natural resources is now being looked at globally. The synergy between environmental policy, local economic incentives, and the resurgence of natural forest growth proves that economic development and ecological preservation can go hand-in-hand.
Costa Rica Furniture: Custom Designs & Exotic Woods
The Tico Times article “Handcrafted Furniture Gives Soul to Living Space” explores Costa Rica’s rich tradition of artisanal woodworking, highlighting how custom-made furniture transcends mere functionality to become deeply personal and meaningful. It showcases towns like Sarchí, renowned for their woodworking heritage, and artisans. Costa Rican handcrafted furniture appealing to both local and international clients.