A sustainable future for sports infrastructure: The use of mass timber as a low-carbon alternative to steel and concrete construction

In Australia, sports infrastructure is an important component of future growth, providing $16.2b in annual value to Australians in economic, health and social benefits. However, the carbon footprint of large-volume structures such as sports stadiums is staggering. Across the globe, there is an urgent need to move all types of construction to more ecologically sustainable methods. Mass timber, a new category of engineered structural timber, may be the answer.

A Sustainable Future for Sports Infrastructure: The Use of Mass Timber as a Low-Carbon Alternative to Steel and Concrete Construction examines some of the trends, technologies and new applications of timber in building and construction that support its use for sports infrastructure. In this whitepaper, we look at several key topics including innovations in structural timber, the impact of timber on construction speed and cost, the benefits of prefabrication technology, timber’s role in the carbon economy, and issues relating to sustainable sourcing and supply chain. We also discuss the pioneering activities of local and international companies, who are leading the way towards greener sports infrastructure in Australia.

Rubner Holzbau is a European manufacturer and fabricator of mass timber, including glulam and cross-laminated timber, working in Australia via a partnership with Theca Timber that guarantees a local technical and commercial presence from project conception and design until erection. Decades of experience in Europe and unparalleled top-class jobs completed in Australia make this duo the leading expert for customised mass timber construction solutions.

Download this whitepaper to explore some of the trends, technologies and new applications of timber in building and construction that support its use for sports infrastructure.