Why timber?
Advantages of timber building
Biobased construction is a sustainable method of building because it utilises renewable and biodegradable materials instead of non-renewable and harmful resources. This approach to construction reduces carbon emissions and decreases the amount of waste produced during the building process. Switching to timber homes can cut up to a staggering 20% of our global emissions!
Timber homes as silver bullet to counter climate change. And the best thing is that it's a no regret transition. Timber homes are even healthier and more comfortable. Unlike most other climate measures that unfortunately feel like making sacrifices to most people, like eating less meat or reducing flying (which still need to happen).
Biobased materials have a lower embodied energy compared to conventional materials, and can improve indoor air quality, leading to a healthier living environment. By choosing biobased construction, we can move towards a more environmentally conscious and sustainable future while still having strong and durable buildings.
Timber buildings have a long history and a proven lifespan. They have been used for construction for thousands of years, with some wooden structures still standing today after hundreds of years. With proper maintenance and preservation, timber buildings can last for several generations. Modern construction techniques and treatments have further improved the durability and longevity of timber structures. Today, timber buildings are known for their strength, resilience, and versatility, making them a popular choice for both residential and commercial construction. Despite its long history, timber continues to be a relevant and innovative building material in modern times, offering a sustainable, renewable, and beautiful alternative to traditional construction methods.
Timber is a natural material that is able to resist fire, earthquakes, and storms. Additionally, it has good insulation properties, which can reduce the spread of fire and keep residents warm in winter and cool in summer. Timber homes are also lighter and less dense than other construction materials, which reduces their potential to cause damage in the event of an earthquake. Furthermore, modern construction techniques and treatments ensure that timber homes are protected against pests and rot. Overall, timber homes are a safe and sustainable option for those who want to live in a comfortable and secure environment.
Timber building & deforestation
Building with sustainable timber does not have to cause deforestation if it is sourced from responsibly managed forests. Sustainable timber is wood that is harvested in a manner that ensures the long-term health and productivity of the forest, and it is a renewable resource that can be harvested again and again.
Sustainable timber is usually certified by organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), which have strict standards for responsible forest management. These organizations ensure that the wood is sourced from well-managed forests, and they track the wood from the forest to the final product to ensure that it has been harvested sustainably.
Using sustainable timber in construction can help support healthy forests and prevent deforestation by providing an economic incentive for responsible forest management. In contrast, using illegally harvested or unsustainably harvested timber can contribute to deforestation and harm the environment.
By choosing sustainable timber and supporting responsible forestry practices, it is possible to build with wood in a way that is good for the environment and supports healthy forests for future generations.
