Deep Water Ventures’ president, Brad Ives, has turned his interests in wood, sailing and ecology into a thriving business. The company is committed to forest stewardship and the method of selective cutting, which preserves a forest’s biodiversity, provides long-term benefits to the local population, and generates profit without adversely affecting the region’s ecosystem. By association with an independent agency that carefully monitors logging operations, the company can assure its customers that the product they are purchasing comes from sustainable forests.
Innovation
Deep Water Ventures supplies timber to boat builders who specialize in traditional techniques. The timber comes from Suriname, in South America, and is selectively cut. Selective cutting is done for both economic and ecological reasons and, following strict guidelines, does not negatively impact the rainforest. The company has worked closely with its major sawmill to help it obtain certification from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), an independent organization that sets worldwide standards for ecological forestry. FSC’s mission promotes “environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable” forest management. In addition, Deep Water Ventures ships its timber under sail power, allowing the company to reduce its use of fossil fuels. Finally, the company’s leadership has established relationships with all levels of its employees, and values the people in the region it operates. Ives states: “The only way to know how the wood you use is being harvested is to know the people who are doing it.”
Impact
Responsible forestry is economically advantageous. By taking an inventory of the timber and an organized approach to harvesting, less labor is required to accomplish the work. In addition to the economic advantage to the company, the local forestry workers benefit from Deep Water Ventures’ business practices. They learn techniques of responsible forestry including inventory training, planning, removal, and processing. Upgrading the forestry camps has resulted in higher standard of living for the workers. Besides employment, the indigenous population has comfortable, ecologically sound accommodations and personal investment in their surroundings. Since wood is used in so many industries, the potential for worldwide impact is notable.
Inspiration
Deep Water Ventures has proved that it is both possible and desirable to harvest quality lumber without damaging the rainforest. The company promotes sustainability and the wise use of natural resources. The company’s president has successfully combined his business interests, his understanding of the importance of personal relationships, and his commitment to environmental issues. With regard to his associates in Suriname, Ives states: “We are dealing with all family businesses there, and we get involved with the family life there, too.” The support Deep Water Ventures has received from local workers is evidenced by their investment of their own funds to pursue FSC certification.
The World Inquiry editorial team edited this profile from the original submission of the interviewer or other source. The views expressed do not necessarily represent Case Western Reserve University, the Weatherhead School of Management or the Center for Business as an Agent of World Benefit. More >>
