Sustainable construction is becoming increasingly important as industries and nations alike aim to reduce their environmental footprint and embrace eco-friendly practices. Cross laminated timber (CLT) has emerged as a pivotal solution in the construction industry, offering a greener alternative to traditional construction materials such as concrete, a material that in production alone generates around 2.5 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year – about eight per cent of the global total[1]. The adoption of CLT both reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability and demonstrates a broader collaborative effort within the construction industry to pursue and implement solutions that are kinder to the planet, according to Knauf Gypsum.
Thanh Huynh, R&D, Engineering, and Services Director, Knauf Gypsum, said, “CLT adoption in Australia is critical for several reasons, chief among them being the country's vast forest resources and its commitment to combating climate change. Australia's unique environmental conditions and biodiversity, coupled with the increasing severity of climate-related challenges, require a shift towards more sustainable construction materials and methods. CLT is an opportunity to leverage Australia's forestry industry in a sustainable manner, promoting the management of forests in a way that balances ecological preservation with economic benefits. By integrating CLT into construction practices, Australia can reduce its carbon footprint, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
“The versatility and efficiency of CLT also aligns with Australia's diverse architectural needs and rapid urban development. The material's ability to support faster construction timelines while minimising environmental impact makes it an ideal choice for the country's growing cities and infrastructure projects. The demand for housing and commercial spaces, driven by population growth and urbanisation, calls for innovative solutions that do not compromise environmental integrity. CLT offers a path forward, empowering Australia to build greener, more resilient communities that are prepared to face the challenges of the 21st century while upholding its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.”
One of the most significant environmental advantages of CLT is its ability to contribute to carbon sequestration. Unlike concrete, which has a high carbon footprint due to its production process, CLT locks in carbon dioxide, which trees absorb during their growth. This process reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and promotes sustainable forestry practices. By sourcing timber from responsibly managed forests, CLT use supports an ecological balance, encouraging a cycle of planting, growing, and harvesting that sustains forest resources for future generations. CLT production also uses less energy compared to concrete, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and aligning with Australia's goals to combat climate change and promote sustainability.
Thanh Hyunh said, “CLT’s benefits extend beyond its environmental impact; it offers cost-effective solutions that can significantly reduce construction time and associated costs. Prefabricated CLT panels can be quickly assembled onsite, minimising the duration of construction projects and the related expenses. This efficiency is evident in projects like Forte Melbourne and the Adelaide Oval Hotel, where CLT's versatility and efficiency are showcased. These examples illustrate how CLT can meet diverse architectural requirements, from residential buildings to complex commercial structures, proving its capability to adapt to various design needs while maintaining cost and time efficiency.”
While CLT adoption is in its early stages in Australia, other regions worldwide have been using the solution to bolster their construction industries for some time. For example, Scandinavian countries have long been at the forefront of integrating sustainable practices into their way of life, including their approach to building and urban development using CLT. Scandinavia’s successful incorporation of CLT into a wide array of construction projects – from residential to commercial and public buildings – demonstrates the material’s versatility, efficiency, and environmental benefits.
Scandinavia’s climatic conditions showcase how CLT can be used in different settings effectively, providing valuable lessons in achieving sustainability goals. The Scandinavian commitment to eco-friendly construction, supported by government policies and community values that prioritise environmental stewardship, offers a blueprint for Australia. It highlights how a concerted effort between policymakers, industries, and the public can drive the transition towards more sustainable construction materials and methods.
Thanh Hyunh said, “Scandinavian success stories highlight CLT's transformative impact on construction, offering insights into best practices that can inform and inspire Australian projects. Scandinavia’s experience with CLT underscores the importance of integrating eco-friendly materials into construction to achieve sustainable urban growth. In Australia, the construction industry faces macro environmental challenges that have prompted many businesses to adapt and innovate, including Knauf Gypsum. In collaboration with New Zealand’s Xlam, Knauf Gypsum has developed new lightweight wall and floor/ceiling systems specifically tailored for CLT while aligning with evolving building codes, which feature in the recently released Systems+ guide.”
“The environmental benefits of CLT, combined with its cost-effectiveness and project efficiency, make it an attractive option for sustainable development. By learning from successful implementations, such as those in Scandinavia and real-world examples within Australia, the construction industry can continue to evolve, adopting practices that not only meet the architectural and functional demands of the present but also ensure the sustainability of the built environment for future generations.”
Reference:
[1] https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/objects-and-stories/everyday-wonders/building-modern-world-concrete-and-our-environment
