Tarkett launches a world first, ecological eucalyptus flooring product

Tarkett, a world leader in general and sports flooring solutions, has signed a licence agreement with the Australian company ‘Style’, owner of patented technology regarding the use of natural fibres. Under this agreement, Tarkett will produce a new generation of parquet flooring made from eucalyptus wood – the first of its kind on the market. This is a responsible and environmentally friendly product, developed with a view to preserving natural resources and using renewable materials. It is primarily intended for commercial use, and will be available in late 2010. Using a unique, patented production process, Tarkett will produce an ecological eucalyptus flooring that will be three times harder than its oak equivalent. Eucalyptus Grandis is one of the most common tree species in Asia, Europe and Australia. It is also a very fast-growing tree, reaching maturity and becoming harvestable in only 8 to 10 years, as opposed to almost 100 years for an oak tree. All the wood used comes from forests certified by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC (Pan European Forest Certification). These organisations ensure responsible forestry management, and Tarkett was a key pioneer behind FSC certification. The production method and wood types used ensure flooring products that are highly wear resistant and extremely stable in all climatic conditions and at any ambient temperature. Raw materials will initially be provided by ‘Style’, while Tarkett rolls out its technology and makes the investments necessary to begin production in one of its West European plants. “This innovation complies with our approach to sustainable development. It also allows us to develop a new commercial wood offering for collective customers, with a very attractive, warming and hard-wearing product”, said Patrick Mathieu, Tarkett President Western Europe.