This piece was written and provided by the Timber Framing Collective.
As we look to build a more sustainable future, it’s no surprise that consumers and builders alike are increasingly turning to environmentally friendly building materials. And when it comes to sustainability, the timber framing we work with is looking brighter than ever.
The research is in
Recent research from the Timber Framing Collective shows that people continue to choose timber framing over steel due to its low cost, fast assembly, flexibility and ease of renovation. But it’s the incredible environmental benefits that are really resonating in a world that is increasingly looking to reduce its impact.
Consumers
The research shows that steel is beginning to lose its shine among people building new homes, with an 11% decrease over the last two years in consumers who rate steel as superior. More consumers are being inspired by timber framing’s environmental and emotive proof points, such as:
- Australia’s plantation forestry is 100% sustainable as they are replanted after harvest
- Each year Australian Forest Industries replant more than 70 million trees
- Plantation trees are necessary to fight climate change and move towards net-zero by 2050
- Choosing timber is helping build a better world
Builders
The research also highlights that 48% of builders value green credentials as one of the most important factors in choice of materials. That’s an increase of 27% since 2021. And 72% feel positive about timber framing’s environmental impact, an increase of 21% since 2021. More and more builders are aligning with timber framing’s key environmental messages—that it’s renewable, responsibly sourced and removes greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. This is a space where steel simply cannot compete.
Timber framing vs. green steel
Whilst the steel framing industry is working to reduce its impact (which is great news for our planet), there’s a long way to go and timber framing will continue to come out on top for the foreseeable future.
Green steel
Right now, green steel is simply a concept. The intent is that it will be produced using low-carbon energy sources, which will significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional steel production. It can also be made from recycled scrap metal, further reducing waste and environmental impact. However, the production of green steel still requires significant amounts of energy and resources, which releases greenhouse gases into the air.
Timber framing
On the other hand, timber is a renewable resource that is grown and harvested sustainably with careful management. Trees grow for around 30 years before they are harvested, allowing them to capture large amounts of carbon dioxide from our atmosphere. This carbon is locked up and stored for the life of the timber. And the timber in framing is actually carbon positive, meaning the entire production process removes more carbon dioxide than it emits.
Letʼs collaborate
We must all continue to take responsibility for the impact our choices have on the environment, and choosing timber framing is a positive step towards building a sustainable future. Get involved, share the resources, collaborate and let’s build a better world.
Download the creative resources to share how your business is helping tackle climate change: renewabletimberframing.com.au/resources
About the reseach
The research was collected through anonymous surveys among consumers and builders from December 2022 to January 2023. Findings were compared to research conducted in 2021. The sample size included 220 consumers who have built their home in past 2 years or plan to build in next 18 months, as well as 182 carpenters/builders.
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