Sustainable use of the global forest resources and the protection of its biodiversity and ecological functions has long been at the heart of environmental awareness and concern. The important role of the timber trade in the responsible management of the world's forests is increasingly recognised by a broad range of people. Not only various Government initiatives aim at building appropriate institutional frameworks supporting the positive role of the industry, but also initiatives emerged from the trade itself.

The strength of the industry in this context is to use its buying power and trade relations demanding high environmental standards from suppliers as a condition for future business. Initiatives evolved that provide technical support and also better market access for the producer. But to assess and improve environmental performance in the source forests abroad is a very difficult and complex matter. The below examples show how the Timber Trade Federation is supporting its members' suppliers.