Certainly, there is plenty of cedar for nomadic fishermen. There is just not enough cedar for the Japanese, Swiss, and Northwestern timber companies to supply the world. We are under the assumption that we can show our political beliefs by how we spend our money. Many of us feel that by buying rainforest products we will stop environmental destruction and help indigenous peoples. Unfortunately, I wonder if this is the case with most rainforest herbs, like Uncaria , Cat's Claw or Una de Gato, which is popular today.
Hungry pickers have a tendency to clear the herb completely out.
I am leery of many cooperative herb ventures in Central America. I have seen too many that are run by foreigners, while all the workers are indigenous. It's best to research before you buy. There are ethical companies that do respect the local people. Use local species when possible.