Wood for beginners:
• Timber is a renewable raw material.
• Trees absorb carbon dioxide during growth (carbon sequestration). One cubic metre of wood absorbs one tonne of carbon dioxide (CO2)
• The embodied energy (including carbon sequestration) invested in the cultivation, logging, manufacturing transport and erection is usually lower than for non-renewable raw materials.
• Using timber stimulates the expansion of managed forests to absorb CO2
• Using schemes such as FSC, managed forests support biodiversity and protect the rights of indigenous peoples. The UK is the biggest importer of FSC certified timber.
• Using UK grown timber reduces embodied energy and contributes to the local culture and economy. - Milling logs has a comparatively low environmental impact.
• Timber is a very safe material to handle. It is non-toxic and does not break down into environmentally damaging materials.
• Cladding can be reused (if carefully disassembled), recycled and downcycled. It is biodegradable and can ultimately serve as a fuel source.
• Untreated hardwood timber using heartwood can obtain a service life of between 40 – 60 years