CITES and Sustainable Alternatives to Ipe and Cumaru

What is CITES and Why Should I Care?

CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, is an international agreement designed to ensure that trade does not threaten the survival of plants and animals. When it comes to tropical hardwoods like Ipe and Cumaru, understanding CITES regulations is crucial for responsible sourcing and environmental conservation.

CITES: Protecting At-Risk Hardwoods

Wood is a renewable resource—but only within limits. CITES acts as an early warning system, signaling when a species is at risk due to excessive harvesting. Now that Ipe and Cumaru are listed on the CITES Appendices, sourcing these hardwoods sustainably is more critical than ever. At HDG Building Materials, we help architects, designers, builders, and property owners navigate these regulations and make informed, eco-conscious choices.

Sustainable Wood Alternatives to Ipe and Cumaru

For those who prefer natural wood products but want to ensure responsible sourcing, several alternatives offer durability and beauty comparable to Ipe:

• HDG Black Locust Deck Tiles: A dense, durable, and naturally rot-resistant wood, Black Locust is a domestic alternative that we provide in partnership with Robi Decking.
• HDG Thermally Modified Ash: Heat-treated to increase durability and weather resistance, this wood alternative offers a rich color and excellent performance.
• HDG Massaranduba: Sometimes called Brazilian Redwood, this hardwood is naturally resistant to insects and decay, providing a sustainable option for decking.
• HDG Kebony: A sustainably modified wood that undergoes an eco-friendly treatment process to enhance durability and longevity.
• HDG Balau Hardwood Pavers: A premium choice for architects and builders looking for a warm, durable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to ipe.

HDG Building Materials also offers FSC-certified Ipe and Cumaru for those who prefer these species but want assurance of responsible harvesting.

Innovative Non-Wood Sustainable Alternatives to Ipe and Cumaru

For those looking beyond traditional wood, HDG Building Materials offers cutting-edge, sustainable alternatives that leverage recycled materials and innovative processing techniques:

• HDG Resysta: Made from rice husks and polymers, this material mimics the appearance of wood while being resistant to moisture, rot, and insects.
• HDG Acre: Created from upcycled rice hulls, Acre is a lightweight, durable, and 100% recyclable alternative to wood.
• HDG Exterior Bamboo: Technically a grass, bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource that offers impressive strength, durability, and a natural wood-like appearance.