Environmental Credentials

Wood offers the builder or designer several environmental advantages over common, alternative building materials. Namely:

• Wood is a renewable resource;
• Wood products store carbon dioxide;
• Comparatively, the manufacture of most wood products requires smaller amounts of energy;
• Residues generated through the processing of wood can be reused in a variety of positive ways.

As the articles throughout this section discuss, in a world increasingly concerned with reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, wood is a building material that can deliver the designer both environmental and performance benefits. Thus, by ensuring sustainable forest practices and regenerating this natural product there are real possibilities to significantly improve the environmental credentials of the building and construction industry by choosing wood.

• Carbon storage

For the environmentally conscious architect, engineer or building professional, timber is a logical choice. With the ability to store carbon for its entire service life, using sustainably sourced timber can help tackle climate change and transition to a low carbon economy.

• Life Cycle Analysis

A life cycle analysis measures the environmental impacts of building products throughout their life. By providing a standard way of comparing building products, it helps building professionals make informed and environmentally conscious decisions.

• Low embodied energy

When compared against other common building material alternatives, timber's low embodied energy is another reason why choosing timber is a positive choice for our environment.

• Maximise Green Star Ratings

The Green Star Energy Rating system has accelerated industry focus on sustainable design and development. Using timber can help maximise green star credits.

• Recycling and wood waste

In the timber industry rarely is there such a thing as a wasted piece of wood. Learn here about some of the more unique and innovative uses of timber waste and offcuts.