For years now, the import of tropical timber has only been possible under strict conditions. Proof of legality is particularly difficult for Burma teak, which is popular in yacht building because it is particularly weather-resistant. This was the result of extensive research by YACHT.
In fact, no trader, no wood-processing company and not even the German Boat and Shipbuilders' Association (DBSV) was able to show the editors how the required verification of the entire supply chain from the logging site to the EU can be provided.
The Swiss certification company SGS, a globally operating specialist for such cases, made it clear in an interview that it generally rejects orders in Myanmar due to the very high risk of corruption.
But how does teak end up on German decks? Are the planks and logs that are traded and planed in this country all illegal? YACHT investigates this question in its latest issue.
It is a dilemma for shipyards and service companies. On the one hand, they need the wood for their work, as plantation teak is not sufficiently stable, at least on deck. On the other hand, they risk being involved in criminal proceedings for circumventing the European Timber Trade Regulation (EUTR).
There is a wide range of substitutes - from plastic teak to thermally treated woods or varieties such as robinia. However, there is still a demand for Burma teak - for the faithful restoration of classics, for example.
The fact that YACHT readers take a differentiated view of the topic is demonstrated by the Results of our online survey. According to the survey, only around 13 per cent of the more than 1,000 participants favoured natural teak; almost 60 per cent would opt for plastic decking when buying a new GRP yacht.
You can find the latest report on Burma teak in issue 12/2017, now available from newsagents or directly here in the Delius Klasing shop.
