Here are the key environmental advantages of CLT:
- Carbon Sequestration & Natural Carbon Sink: CLT is made from wood, which stores carbon dioxide (CO2) absorbed from the atmosphere during the tree’s growth. As a result, using CLT in construction helps sequester carbon, reducing the overall carbon footprint of a building.
- Renewable Resource: Wood is a renewable resource, especially when sourced from sustainably managed forests of which Boxa only supplies from. CLT can be produced from fast-growing tree species and certified sustainable forestry practices, contributing to a lower environmental impact compared to non-renewable materials.
- Reduced Construction Waste: CLT panels are prefabricated to precise specifications, which minimises on-site waste and the need for additional materials. This efficiency reduces the overall environmental impact of construction.
- Lower Embodied Energy: The production of CLT involves substantial lower embodied energy compared to traditional building materials like concrete and steel.
- Energy Efficiency in Building: CLT has good thermal insulation properties, which can enhance the energy efficiency of buildings. Properly designed CLT structures can reduce the need for additional insulation and decrease heating and cooling demands.
- Biodegradability and End-of-Life Impact: At the end of its life cycle, CLT can be repurposed or recycled, and as a natural material, it is biodegradable due to the use of an inert glue. This reduces the environmental impact associated with disposal compared to materials that do not decompose or require extensive processing.
- Low Transportation Impact: CLT panels are relatively lightweight compared to concrete or steel, which can reduce the energy and emissions associated with transportation. Flat pack design reducing transport volume.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Wood is a natural material that can contribute to improved indoor air quality. It regulates humidity and emits fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) compared to some synthetic building materials.
- Long-Term Durability: CLT structures are durable and can have a long lifespan when properly maintained. Their longevity contributes to sustainable construction by reducing the need for frequent renovations or replacements.
- Factory Green Initiative: The production of the CLT goes through green conscious initiatives where we carefully utilise our energy usage and reduction of waste material. All waste material is recycled.
In summary, CLT offers significant environmental benefits through carbon sequestration, renewable sourcing, reduced waste, lower embodied energy, and improved energy efficiency. Its use in construction aligns with sustainable building practices and contributes positively to the overall environmental impact of a building.