LAS VEGAS – Roger Rutan, vice president of Timber Products (booth #2473), said one of the most challenging aspects of going green is “getting past the feeling of being overwhelmed by all of the acronyms.” Examples include FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), SFI (Sustainable Forestry Initiative), COC (Chain of Custody), LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and CARB (California Air Resources Board.)

A big part of Rutan’s job involves keeping up to date with environmental issues affecting the wood products industry and educating customers. He estimated that he has done more than 25 “roadshow” presentations to industry groups in a joint partnership of Timber Products and SierraPine (booth #2283). The two board products companies offer FSC, SFI and CARB-compliant products.

Rutan said his advice to companies seeking to hop on the green bandwagon is contained in two simple questions:

1. “Go to your customers and ask them what environmental issues are most important to them about your products.”

2. “Ask your suppliers what products they have that can be used to address your customers’ needs.”