Wood is one of the oldest building materials known to man, but it also provides advantages even advanced products can’t match. As developers and construction companies look for ways to minimize their environmental impact, wood has emerged as a sustainable yet durable option. Below is an overview of why wood should be the first choice for any eco-conscious development.

Why Wood Is Environmentally Sustainable

Renewablility 

Unlike steel and other products, which have to be mined from the ground or synthesized from fossil fuels, wood doesn’t deplete the earth’s natural resources. Today’s building materials come from responsibly managed forests that contribute to growth.

In fact, there are more trees in the US than there were 70 years ago, even though the number harvested has risen. This is due to industrial efforts to protect the planet.

Recyclablility 

Excess timber and trimmings on construction sites can be recycled into other products, which reduces the amount of waste in landfills. Reusing scraps and unused wood also requires less energy than recycling steel or synthetic building products.

Minimal Carbon Footprint

Producing steel and other materials releases carbon dioxide and other gases associated with climate change. Wood occurs naturally, so processing the material requires much less energy and produces fewer emissions. Living trees absorb carbon dioxide, making the environmental footprint of wood construction even smaller.

How to Identify Sustainable Wood Products

Many organizations, like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), inspect harvesting practices to guarantee that building materials are produced sustainably. They review every aspect of a company’s forest management practices to ensure they protect biodiversity, replant harvested trees, and take steps to preserve the ecosystem.

When shopping for lumber, look for a certification stamp from an organization like the FSC. If you’re hiring a contractor, you should also ask if the building materials they use come from certified forests.

As Clarksville’s leading supplier of building materials and custom-built trusses, H & H Truss & Supply serves contractors and builders throughout Arkansas. They use only the best materials on the market, sourced from certified forests, to minimize the environmental impact of your project. Visit their website for more information on their services, or call (479) 754-4999 to discuss your needs with a friendly team member.