A Commitment to the Future
At Corksribas, we believe that sustainability is not just a choice, but a responsibility. With deep roots in tradition and a constant eye on the future, we are committed to using cork in a way that preserves the environment and enriches the lives of future generations. Our aim is to balance innovation with conservation, developing products that reflect our dedication to the planet and the communities we serve.
An Ecological Treasure
Cork is an exemplary material in terms of sustainability. The harvesting process is both renewable and ecological, as it doesn't harm the tree, allowing cork oaks to live and be productive for over 200 years. Each cork oak is a key player in mitigating climate change, as it absorbs around 14 million tonnes of CO₂ annually.
Cork oak forests, known as Montados in Portuguese, are a unique repository trove of biodiversity, considered one of the 35 main sites of global biological diversity. It also provides soil conservation, regulates the water cycle, and protects against erosion by wind and fire. It is home to more than 160 species of birds, 24 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 37 species of mammals, some of them endangered.
Ecological Production Process
We have implemented production processes that reflect our commitment to sustainability:
Clean Energy
We invest in renewable energy to reduce our carbon footprint and minimise our environmental impact.
Recycling and Reuse
We promote a circular economy, reusing by-products and recycling materials for new applications.
Full Utilisation
We utilise every part of the cork, transforming waste into innovative products.
Social and Economic Sustainability
Cork is fundamental to the social and economic development of Western Mediterranean countries. In Portugal, where cork oak forests occupy more than 736,000 hectares and account for 23 per cent of the national forest, the cork industry creates around 9,000 jobs, accounts for 2 per cent of Portuguese exports in goods, and 30 per cent of forest products.
Cork oak forests also help combat desertification and prevent depopulation by sustaining rural areas, keeping them alive and economically viable. In many Portuguese villages, cork is the main source of income, sustaining economic and social activities, and distributing wealth.
Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals
We are committed to contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Environmentally, we are dedicated to preserving the Montado and protecting its valuable ecosystem services, while constantly reducing our environmental impact. With regard to the circular economy, we implement practices that encourage the reuse and recycling of materials, developing ecological products that respect a sustainable life cycle. On a social level, we guarantee a safe and healthy working environment, while promoting ongoing training and the well-being of our employees. In the economic and technological field, we drive sustainable economic growth and invest in research and development, generating lasting value for communities and the market.
We face environmental challenges with a proactive approach, continually investing in finding ways to integrate sustainability into our products and processes. We are committed to ensuring a greener and healthier future for everyone, combining tradition, innovation, and respect for the environment.
