Proteak produces teak wood in Nayarit, Mexico. The startup has been sustainably growing and selling teak wood for five years. The goal of Proteak is to operate at a profit while using methods that address social, environmental, and economic concerns. Proteak has been harvesting teak without deforestation, and has stood out in an industry full of players happy to log illegally.

 

Proteak is dedicated to sustainable harvesting and soil conservation. The company currently operates on 820 hectares that is treated with the minimum chemicals necessary and responsible forestry practices and soil management. Proteak estimates that the approximately 650,000 trees populating their land absorb emissions from 5,000 cars a year. Workers, currently 14 in all, receive benefits and a higher rate of pay than the average worker in Nayarit.

 

Teak is in high demand internationally and commands a high price relative to most other woods. The market worldwide is over US$2.5B a year. Proteak states its investors are earning 24% on their money.