Indigenous Wood Usag=
e
In recent years, deforestation has become a problem in
many parts of Africa where we obtain our products. While the main causes for
this are clearing for farmland and charcoal burning. The harvest of native =
Ebony,
Mahogany, Rosewood, and Olive wood is the greatest threat to indigenous for=
ests
and the species they support, through habitat loss for wildlife and destruc=
tion
of water catchments areas.
The demand for carvings has meant the devaluing of
precious woods such as the ebony, ordinarily a highly expensive wood. This =
has
led to the rapid and wholesale destruction of Ebony forests. It is clearly
understood by all of us that the demand for woodcarving also increases the =
need
for raw wood. At the same time, the carving industry provides vital labor to
many people, and is an important form of expression of both traditional and
modern art.
Many rural communities are too poor with no or very f=
ew
other sources of income other than to use the indigenous materials availabl=
e to
them. When choosing art, people, and communities to support, we believe that
environmental stewardship is very important and sensible for humanity and
consider this. However, our moral compass also dictates that we look beyond
current environmental destruction when human survival supersedes environmen=
tal
consequences. We also look at alternate products that can be produced in pl=
ace
of indigenous wood and have many natural fiber and animal by-product items.=
We realize that the industry needs to be sustainable =
and
deforestation is causing major environmental problems. The artists and arti=
sans
who use indigenous woods are actively encouraged where possible to use wood=
from commercial renewal sources and tree cuttings services. Alien species
removal programs in southern African countries are providing a new medium f=
or
many wood carvers for many years to come. The supply of products from this
resource are growing and we actively support the programs.
We welcome suggestions and any support to be better s=
tewards
of the environment that will not further jeopardize the survival of the
impoverished of Africa. Please email us, call 303-284-0240, or write to:
The Office of the President
Kwaze-Kwasa [USA] Inc.
2524 W 108th Place
Westminster, CO 80234