sustainability
Fortunately, the high demand for stone pine does not endanger this valuable tree species. In Austria, all stone pine forests are managed sustainably, which means that only as much wood is taken as grows back in the same period. Compliance with the current Austrian forestry law is strictly monitored, and every use of wood must be recorded and approved.
In fact, the proportion of stone pine wood used is still far below the amount that can be used sustainably. In fact, the number of forests in which more than 10% stone pine is found is increasing. The nutcracker ensures the spread without any human intervention. As a winter supply, it hoards more stone pine nuts to eat than it needs and thus creates seed deposits for the spread. In addition, young stone pines are grown in local forest gardens, with around 130,000 being planted every year in Tyrol's forests alone.
A sustainable pine harvest does not pose a threat, but actually makes sense, because old forest stands can be rejuvenated through proper use. This is important in order to maintain the function of a protective forest, because a mixture of old and young trees is much more stable against the forces of nature. We value local pine wood for our high-quality products; it comes from healthy and well-maintained, sustainably managed forests.