How can using rimu be sustainable? Rimu for the Archetype comes from sustainably managed native forests. A small number of trees are harvested, ensuring that the rate at which the trees are removed is geared to the forest’s capacity to replace them. Natures balance in the forest is maintained by a number of programmes including: Nurturing the eco-system - The forest ecosystem is mapped and a plan generated to enhance regeneration and all round health. This plan manages flora, fauna, waterways, pest control (Possums eat 24,000 tonnes of forest vegetation per day in NZ) and tree health. Natural Regeneration - This is helped by gathering some seeds and propagating them in a nursery before replanting in the areas from which their seeds originated. During harvest, the forests are studied to ensure trees are felled from areas that will benefit from increased light and water penetration (through the canopy). A variety of ages of tree are taken to ensure nature’s balance is maintained. All trees are tagged and traced for forest and yield management. For those who still consider rimu to be too good for coffins note that we only use OB (outer board) which is not sought after for furniture manufacture. The introduction of alternative timbers as an option gives families choice. Poplar or pine may be available depending on supply - a very green alternative.