Cork oaks in Portugal – How a silent tree became a hero of sustainability

They stand inconspicuously in the landscape, require hardly any water, absorb incredible amounts of CO₂, and preserve habitats: cork oaks – Portugal's green giants. While many packaging materials consume finite resources, cork simply grows back. And has done so for centuries – quietly, robustly, and sustainably.

🇵🇹 Cork oaks from Portugal – a cultural heritage

Portugal is not only known for fado, wine, and its Atlantic coast—it is also the world leader in cork production . Around 30% of the country's surface area is forested, and in Portugal alone, over 730,000 hectares of cork oak trees grow—a unique ecosystem called the Montado .

What hardly anyone knows:

• Cork oaks may only be peeled for the first time from the age of 25

• Harvesting is done by hand – without damaging the tree

• Each tree can be harvested regularly for over 150 years
  

A product that grows back without being felled – that is true circular economy.

🌱 Sustainability with every peeling

Cork oaks are true CO₂ stores. Studies show that debarked trees bind significantly more CO₂ in an attempt to regenerate their bark. Each cubic meter of cork stores over 73 kg of CO₂ , making cork products an active climate protector.

In contrast to plastic, aluminum or synthetic materials:

• no microplastics

• no hazardous waste

• no finite resources

• compostable & recyclable
  

At Biork, we use precisely this material – for plastic-free, functional, and durable packaging. 🌱 Why is peeling important? Regular harvesting stimulates tree growth and significantly increases CO₂ sequestration. If cork oaks aren't peeled, the bark becomes brittle, the tree becomes less vital, and sustainable use is no longer possible. Peeling is therefore not an intervention, but part of a natural cycle. 🐝 Biodiversity in the Montado

The cork oak is not only ecologically important – it is also a biodiversity hotspot . Portuguese cork forests are home to:

• endangered species such as the Iberian lynx

• over 100 bird species

• Wild boars, deer, chameleons and countless insects
  

These ecosystems are threatened by monocultures and climate change – every decision for cork also protects these habitats.

🤲 Handcraft instead of mass production

Cork harvesting is done by hand by experienced tiradores (master corkers). This ancient technique is passed down from generation to generation —a true cultural asset that is now combined with modern design.

When you hold a Biork deodorant in your hand, you are holding a piece of Portuguese culture – and an alternative to short-lived disposable products.

Conclusion:

Cork isn't a trend. It's a natural material with a history, impact, and a future.