Three-quarters of a highly sought-after Brazilian hardwood that entered the supply chain between 2009 and 2019 was probably harvested illegally, researchers in Sweden and Brazil conclude in an analysis published in the journal Nature Sustainability.

Ipê — the wood that was studied — is prized for its toughness and appearance. It is used for decks, siding and other purposes in the United States, Canada and Europe. Today, massive demand for the threatened wood, also known as Brazilian walnut, is driving illegal deforestation, the scientists write.