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Is cork a sustainable material for restaurants and hotels?

Cork is one of the few materials harvested from a living tree. Here is what that means, and what it does not.

By CorkageUpdated 23 Oct 2026For Hotels, Restaurants, Cafés
The short answer

Yes. Cork is the bark of the cork oak, stripped about every nine years without cutting the tree down. The tree keeps growing and can live around 300 years.

The most sustainable choice is still a piece that lasts. Replace single-use and worn items first, not working ones.

How cork is harvested

FactDetail
SourceBark of the cork oak (Quercus suber)
First harvestWhen the tree is about 25 to 30 years old
Harvest cycleAbout every nine years
Is the tree cut?No. Only the bark is stripped; the tree keeps growing
Tree lifespanAround 300 years
Where it growsMostly the western Mediterranean; Portugal produces about half the world's cork

What it means for a venue

  • Replace single-use firstPaper coasters and plastic table tents create the most waste.
  • Keep working piecesBinning a good tray to buy a new one is not a sustainability win.
  • Count itTrack pieces replaced; guests and owners ask for a number.

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More questions

Is cork waterproof?

Cork is water-resistant. About 40% of it is suberin, a natural water-repelling substance.

Is a cork tree cut down to make cork products?

No. The bark is stripped and regrows; the tree is not cut.