Timber is one of the oldest and most versatile materials used by humans. It has many benefits including providing warmth, shelter, beauty, and comfort.
But did you know that timber can also help us fight climate change and reduce our carbon footprint?
Timber is a natural and renewable resource that can store carbon for a long time. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and use it to grow. When trees are harvested and turned into timber products, such as doors and windows, they lock up the carbon and prevent it from being released back into the air. This means that using timber products can help mitigate global warming.
According to a study by Forest & Wood Products Australia, every cubic metre of wood used as a substitute for other building materials reduces CO2 emissions by an average of 1.1 tonnes[1]. Unlike aluminium, which is not subject to moderation outside of its extraction, the public image of forestry has been a polarising subject. But not only does aluminium production not store any carbon, it uses 1500% more energy in its production by weight than timber. In reality this maps out to roughy 50 times more energy for an aluminium frame versus one made of timber[2].
However, not all timber is created equal. To ensure that timber is sourced from well-managed forests that protect biodiversity, water quality, soil health, and workers’ rights, it is important to look for credible certification schemes that verify the sustainability of forest management practices.
In Australia, there are two internationally recognised forest certification schemes that provide assurance of legal and sustainable forest management: Responsible Wood (RW) and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Both schemes have rigorous standards and independent audits that cover environmental, social, and economic aspects of forestry[3].
Responsible Wood is endorsed by the Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), which is the world’s largest forest certification system with over 264 million hectares of certified forests in over 30 countries[4]. Responsible Wood uses the Australian Forestry Standard (AFS) as the relevant standard for certifying forest management in Australia[5].
FSC is a global non-profit organisation that promotes responsible forest management worldwide. FSC has over 200 million hectares of certified forests in more than 80 countries. FSC certification in Australia is administered by FSC Australia[6].
At Sashman, we are committed to using timber from certified sources that meet the highest standards of sustainability. We offer a range of timber doors and windows that are durable, elegant, and energy-efficient. We can work with various types of timber, such as hardwoods, softwoods, or engineered wood products, to suit your preferences and needs.
If you’re looking to make an informed decision to ensure that your plans are realised in a sustainable fashion, know that though we don’t deal in aluminium frames it’s for a reason. For a reliable and professional supplier of timber doors and windows that can help you reduce your environmental impact and enhance your living space, contact us today for a quote.
