We support this wholeheartedly!  It protects the world’s forests and protects buyers who practice due diligence and buy from ethical supply chains.  We only buy from a couple of suppliers in all of South America and we import all containers with our own import bond.  This is granted by the USDA.  Additionally, this amendment helps to curb low cost imports which many times can be low cost because they are avoiding government regulations.

We believe in clients being able to enjoy the wood floor of their choice, but doing so legally and ethically.  This helps provide longterm jobs and livelihoods for native peoples as well as insuring future supplies for generations to come.  We work with family owned businesses with the same philosophy and which work within the government guidelines for the betterment of all of our lives.

The Environmental Protection Agency announced on June 18 that it would delay enforcement of its Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting rule. The rule went into effect on April 22, but the EPA will delay enforcement of the rule until this fall, which will provide wood flooring contractors, and the companies they work for, with more time to become certified in lead-safe removal practices as required by the EPA.

The new law requires contractors working in homes or child-occupied facilities (schools, daycares, etc.) built before 1978 to become certified in lead-safe work practices by attending an EPA-accredited training program. Contractors now have until September 30 to register to become certified, and firms have until October 1. Contractors must complete their certification training by December 31. During this interim period, all contractors and firms must continue to implement lead-safe work practices. For more information, visit the EPA’s web site at www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm.

StewartFloor is committed to preserving the forests of South America.  In Brazil, the Brazilian Institute of the Environment and Natural Resources (IBAMA) monitors and regulates the forestry industry. StewartFloor promotes sustainable forest practices and is committed to securing timber that is selectively harvested and inspected under the governments guidelines.  StewartFloor  supports only manufacturing partners who are committed to sustainable forestry practices and are committed to the social and economic well being of their employees as well as obeying the law.  Following these practices provides well being for communities and employees as well as ensuring that the forests live on to provide economic benefit for local communities for generations in the future.