Forests are the lungs of the planet. Their ability to store carbon dioxide is of central importance in protecting the climate. This makes it all the more perilous that forests are threatened not only by the consequences of climate change, but also by extensive cultivation and overexploitation.
This by no means only affects tropical rainforests. In Europe, primary and primeval forests with very old tree populations are also in great danger in many places. Reckless, often illegal logging in the forests of the Carpathians, for example, is having catastrophic ecological consequences.
For years, musical instrument makers have been pleading for the responsible use of resources and have initiated reforestation projects with great dedication. In 2004, a group of bow makers led by bow maker Klaus Grünke launched a reforestation project for pernambuco trees in Brazil.
The Eben!Holz association for the conservation of endangered woods for musical instrument making supports reforestation projects for ebony trees in Madagascar (see www.eben-holz.org).