San Juan Ventures
Environmental Policies and Involvement
San Juan Ventures reclaims teak from old Indonesian ‘jooglos’ (elevated housing used by the locals) where it served as original flooring, ancient buried teak forests and old factories that once used specimen, old growth teak logs for foundation supports and beams. We also source Ironwood from old boat beams and discarded utility poles which the Indonesian government is currently replacing with other materials. Our sourcing agents reclaim Sonokeling from old, unsafe bridges in Java and Sumatra that transportation authorities are replacing with newer, safer structures. Merbau is our newest FSC Certified reclaimed wood discovery. Known for centuries in Asia for its strength and durability, this tropical hardwood delivers unique characteristics to both construction and design projects. The color varies from a deep reddish brown to a golden brown with a subtle gold flecking scattered throughout. Reclaimed merbau is ideal for flooring, decking, exposed beams, and other architectural elements that require a wood of character and grace.
Many of our wood slabs are sourced from discarded fruit trees (Mango, Lychee, Klengkeng, Nangka, etc.) which no longer bore fruit and have been replaced with new saplings. This wood is still beautiful and sound but might otherwise simply be used by locals as firewood. Additionally, through our vast local connections and relationships throughout the region, we purchase large, old growth slabs from Indonesian families who, knowing the value of these large wood specimens, pass pieces from generation to generation and often sell them as investments. San Juan Ventures also works with our regional connections to buy fallen trees which are collected by locals for woodwork and handicrafts. These locals understand the value of any large, sound seasoned logs above and beyond the scope of woodworking and make them available for purchase. San Juan Ventures also works with forestry authorities to purchase over mature trees which must be removed in order to protect nearby villages or other structures from there instability.
San Juan Ventures respects the limitations of the world's natural wood resources and is dedicated to preserving the supply of these precious materials through our extensive reclaiming efforts. As part of our commitment to leave as few environmental footprints as possible in sourcing exotic woods for your projects, we have created a foundation in support of several key environmental principles - protect, manage and educate.
First, San Juan Ventures proudly supports Global Forest Watch to promote legal and sustainable forestry in Indonesia.
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Second, San Juan Ventures supports the Global Heritage Fund to preserve the Arch Leuser Ecosystem in Sumatra, Indonesia. Our involvement will assist in their effort to protect the last intact major tropical rain forest and wildlife habitat in Southeast Asia from illegal logging and the encroachment of palm plantations for short-term economic gain.
Third, San Juan Ventures has recently introduced a college scholarship program for Indonesian students at the University of Udayana in Bali. Beginning in 2009, San Juan Ventures will provide annual funding for full 4-year scholarships for one young man and woman entering the University's Program of Environmental Studies. These students will receive internship positions at San Juan Ventures Bali and the opportunity to apply for full-time positions with our company upon graduation.
San Juan Ventures features a large selection of fine FSC certified woods and wood products from Indonesia.
Should have any question about our FSC certified products please don't hesitate to contact us.