Chilean environmental lawyer Miguel Fredes had a problem. He was in charge of a lawsuit against a group of loggers, businessmen, and politicians who were accused of logging alerces – rare trees that resemble California redwoods. Timber from alerce trees that were cut down before 1974 or that have died naturally can legally be sold, and it commands a high price for use in construction and furniture. But Fredes suspected that the group was selling freshly cut wood to buyers in the United…

To read this article and start a full year of unlimited online access, subscribe now!

Already a subscriber?

Need to register for your premium online access,
which is included with your paid subscription?

Support SSIR’s coverage of cross-sector solutions to global challenges. 
Help us further the reach of innovative ideas. Donate today.

Read more stories by Laila Weir.