The American Hardwood Export Council is the leading international trade association for the American hardwood industry. It represents companies and trade associations engaged in the export of a full range of U.S. hardwood products, including lumber, veneer, plywood, flooring, moulding and dimension materials.
Overview
The American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) is the leading international trade association for the U.S. hardwood industry, representing major U.S. hardwood product trade associations and U.S. exporters. AHEC runs a worldwide program, covering some 50 export markets, to promote the full range of American hardwoods.
From Washington, DC, and with six overseas offices located near key hardwood markets, AHEC’s worldwide promotion program – active in more than 35 countries – is a collaborative effort with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). It objective – to broaden the impact on, and outreach into, international markets, giving its members the competitive edge needed to meet growing international demand for American hardwood products.
American Hardwood Export Council’s Mission
AHEC represents companies and trade associations engaged in the export of a full range of U.S. hardwood products, including lumber, veneer, plywood, flooring, moulding and dimension materials. AHEC supports three primary missions:
Environmental stewardship: a commitment to continuous improvement
Social responsibility: a commitment to future generations
Economic profitability: a commitment to long-term viability
The Hardwood Sector
American hardwoods are derived from sustainably managed U.S. forests. All U.S. forest owners are subject to Federal legislation to protect habitats for threatened species. Tough regulations governing other aspects of forest management on private land have been implemented by individual states. An estimated 106 million acres are located in completely protected areas – representing 14% of all forest land.
The U.S. hardwood industry bases sustainable design on ethically sourced materials extracted, and manufactured, in a way that supports human rights and basic needs such as sufficient pay, healthcare and benefits. Independent studies have found that there is a very low risk of any U.S. hardwood being derived from illegal sources or from forests where management practices lead to deforestation or threaten biodiversity.
To find out more about AHEC, visit https://www.ahec.org/
