WHY WOOD?
Wood is a powerful ally in the fight against climate change for several reasons. First, trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow, acting as natural carbon sinks. When wood is harvested sustainably and used in construction or furniture, it stores that carbon for the long term, preventing it from re-entering the atmosphere. Additionally, using wood products instead of materials like steel or concrete can reduce the carbon footprint of buildings since wood requires less energy to produce. Finally, sustainably managed forests promote biodiversity and ecosystem health, further contributing to climate resilience.
There's something profoundly satisfying about working with wood, a material that not only embodies sustainability but also offers dozens of structural benefits and natural beauty. Let's explore why wood is such a remarkable choice for us.
Renewable and sustainable
Wood is a truly renewable resource. Responsibly sourced, it stands out as an environmentally friendly option compared to traditional building materials like concrete or steel. The production process of wood consumes considerably less energy, generates fewer carbon emissions, and crucially, wood acts as a carbon sink, storing carbon dioxide and significantly reducing the overall carbon footprint of a project. Planting trees and using the wood for construction is one of the preferred solutions to fight climate change.
Strong and durable
But it's not just about sustainability; wood is both strong and durable. It offers remarkable structural integrity that supports various construction demands while maintaining a lighter weight compared to other materials. This durability ensures safety and longevity, making wood a practical choice for building and design. Several countries are already embarking on wood as construction material also in an urban context. Examples for this are the HOHO in Vienna, Austria, or the Mjøstårnet in Brumunddal in Norway. Sumitomo Forestry in Japan is currently working on a gigantic project called W350 which intends to become the highest wooden “Plyscraper” globally by 2041.