Korkkiteollisuuden

Korkkiteollisuus refers to the industry involved in the harvesting, processing, and manufacturing of cork products. Cork is a natural material obtained from the bark of the cork oak tree (Quercus suber), primarily found in the Mediterranean region, with Portugal and Spain being the largest producers. The harvesting process, known as stripping, is done manually by skilled workers without harming the tree, which can regenerate its bark. This sustainable harvesting method allows cork oak trees to live for hundreds of years and absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide.

The harvested cork bark is then processed through various stages, including boiling to soften it and remove impurities, followed by selection based on quality. The most well-known application of cork is in stoppers for wine bottles, prized for its elasticity, impermeability, and ability to form a tight seal, thus preserving the wine. Beyond stoppers, cork is utilized in a wide array of products due to its unique properties such as lightness, buoyancy, thermal and acoustic insulation, and fire resistance. These applications include flooring and wall coverings, fashion accessories like handbags and wallets, shoe soles, insulation materials in construction, and components in automotive and aerospace industries. The industry emphasizes sustainability and the circular economy, as cork is a renewable and biodegradable resource.