The UK government has recently announced its plans to increase the use of timber in the construction industry in 2023. This move is part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and meet its net-zero targets by 2050. As one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions, the construction industry has a crucial role to play in achieving these targets, and the government believes that increasing the use of timber is an effective way to do so.
The benefits of using timber in construction are numerous. Firstly, timber is a renewable resource, meaning that it can be replenished through sustainable forestry practices. By using timber instead of other building materials that rely on non-renewable resources such as concrete and steel, the construction industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint. Secondly, timber has excellent thermal insulation properties, making it an effective way to reduce energy consumption and lower heating and cooling costs in buildings. Lastly, timber is a lightweight and flexible material, making it easy to transport and work with on construction sites.
To encourage the use of timber in construction, the UK government has announced several measures that will come into effect in 2023. Firstly, it will increase funding for research and development of timber-based building materials, including cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (glulam). This will enable the construction industry to develop and innovate new ways to use timber in building design and construction.
Secondly, the government will introduce new building regulations that promote the use of sustainable building materials, including timber. The new regulations will set standards for the sourcing and production of timber, ensuring that it comes from sustainable and responsible sources. Additionally, the regulations will require builders and architects to consider the environmental impact of their projects and use building materials that have a low carbon footprint.
Lastly, the government will provide financial incentives for construction companies that use timber in their building projects. These incentives may include tax credits or subsidies for using timber, making it a more affordable and competitive option for builders.
At Timber Now, we welcome the UK government’s push for increased timber consumption in the construction industry. As a timber merchant, we understand the importance of sustainable forestry practices and the role that timber can play in reducing carbon emissions. We offer a wide range of high-quality timber products, including C24 Treated Timber, Garden Products and Sheet Materials, that are ideal for use in sustainable building design and construction.
In conclusion, the UK government’s push for increased timber consumption in the construction industry in 2023 is a positive development for both the industry and the environment. By using timber instead of other building materials, the construction industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint and move towards a more sustainable future. At Timber Now, we are committed to providing our customers with the best possible service and products, and we are excited to be part of this movement towards a more sustainable construction industry.
