A lightweight, evolutionary material in the sustainable industry with hard-wearing properties, Cork is immensely useful in the interior and exterior of a building. Contributing to the energy efficiency of the building, cork is both recyclable and renewable, as it is the only tree that regenerates its bark, while harvesting that bark it causes the tree no harm.
Portugal is the largest producer of cork in the world, in an agricultural forest called Montados. The processing of cork is also as sustainable as its use. It is harvested by stripping the outer layer of skin off the tree with a small hatchet that then regrows in time for the next harvest.
While in the factory, cork is shredded and compressed at extreme temperatures, causing expansion and melting of the sap to form an adhesive which binds it all together. When cooled, it can be cut and made ready for use.
One would ask; why use cork? If you are enthusiastic and passionate enough about the protection of the environment and biodiversity in the forest, then cork is a material to look into. the endless possibilities of using cork is also another benefit. Cork posses a variety of adaptability and aesthetic qualities which can be altered to suit your design solutions.
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