“We are guided by the saying, ‘Sustainability is a journey, not a destination.’ There is always more to do”: Guitar brands are working towards sustainable tone – but there’s more to it than just changing tonewoods

Martin acoustic guitar in a forest.

Wood is one of the Earth’s most precious natural resources, and over 309 species have been used to build some of the best-sounding – and looking – instruments over centuries of guitar-building. Millions of guitars have been produced during that time – so it’s no surprise that Mother Nature’s natural resources are dwindling while manufacturing carbon footprints rise.

Take Brazilian rosewood. Many builders in the instrument and furniture manufacturing industries relied on this wood because of its dense, warm tone, finish, and beauty.