Designing Buildings - User contributions [en]

Wood around the world

2021-09-06T11:40:18Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "In the UK, wood is prevalent in [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2018/11/11/scotland-sows-the-seed-for-homegrown-timber-housing/ Scottish homes] and is gaining popularity ..."

In the UK, wood is prevalent in [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2018/11/11/scotland-sows-the-seed-for-homegrown-timber-housing/ Scottish homes] and is gaining popularity in [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2019/07/15/investing-in-timber-the-welsh-way-to-tackle-the-housing-crisis/ Wales], but it only fulfils a quarter of new build homes in England. Scotland and Wales are making headway because of supporting government policies, but in England, there is still work to be done.

Every home not being built with wood misses an opportunity to lock up carbon.

Construction must do better globally to help reach sustainability targets and decrease harmful carbon emissions. One step towards greener buildings is using wood.

= Timber reaches for the sky =

So, how is the rest of the world using wood in construction? Outside of England, many countries are making the most of wood’s environmental credentials, building new homes and even skyscrapers from the natural, renewable building material.

The UK catapulted timber into the tall building arena more than a decade ago with Waugh Thistleton’s 29m tall cross-laminated timber (CLT) apartment block, [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/stadthaus,-murray-grove Stadthaus], in Hackney. Hackney became the motherland of CLT structures when Hackney Council adopted a [https://woodknowledge.wales/other-resource/vincent-stops-hackney-timber-buildings ‘wood first’ policy], and Stadthaus was joined by Hawkin/Brown’s [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/banyan-wharf The Cube] and the colourful [https://drmm.co.uk/project/woodblock-house/ WoodBlock House] by dRMM.

In [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2021/07/01/the-innovations-and-sustainable-solutions-evolving-in-wood/ Scotland] and [https://woodknowledge.wales/ Wales], there are various policies and initiatives that aim to encourage the increased use of home-grown timber in homes.

Timber engineering has allowed wood to be used in construction as never seen before, particularly in cities where building up is often the only option. But [https://woodknowledge.wales/other-resource/vincent-stops-hackney-timber-buildings in 2018], the UK’s tall timber building potential was stymied as wood was banned from use in buildings over 18m.

The tall timber building trend has continued, however, and around the world, via varying building regulations, building the world’s tallest timber skyscraper has become a competition of innovation.

Norway currently holds the accolade for the world’s tallest timber building. [https://www.pefc.org/resources/case-stories/mjostarnet-the-worlds-highest-timber-building-opens-in-norway Mjøstårnet] is a mixed-use tower, designed by [http://vollark.no/portfolio_page/mjostarnet/ Voll Arkitekter] and constructed by Hent and [https://www.moelven.com/globalassets/moelven-limtre/mjostarnet/mjostarnet---construction-of-an-81-m-tall-timber-building_presentation.pdf Moelven Limtre]. It stands at 85.4 metres and is created from a glue-laminated timber (glulam) structure with CLT walls for secondary loadbearing.

Currently under construction is the [https://hautamsterdam.nl/en/building/ HAUT] building in Amsterdam. At 73m it will be the tallest wooden residential building in the Netherlands. The building is being created from CLT, with the foundations, basement and core made from concrete. To further the building’s sustainability credentials, triple glazing, recyclable materials and an energy-generating façade are also being added.

Ambitious plans for new buildings created from timber are also cropping up in Australia, Germany, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the US and more.

= Wood first policies =

Many of the countries showcasing the best of what timber can offer benefit from supporting government policies and building regulations. In the US, the [https://www.awc.org/news/2020/08/04/awc-and-icc-release-mass-timber-buildings-and-the-ibc International Code Council (ICC]) adapted 14 of its codes to allow mass timber to be used up to approx. 55m.

Canada published its [https://d1ied5g1xfgpx8.cloudfront.net/pdfs/40364.pdf ‘State of Mass Timber’] report as part of its Green Construction Through Wood programme. The report claims Canada is the world leader in building with wood and references more than 400 projects. It includes the [https://sustain.ubc.ca/research/research-collections/brock-commons-tallwood-house University of British Columbia’s Brock Commons Tallwood House], claimed to be the world’s highest mass CLT building, which reports its carbon emissions mitigation equivalent to removing 500 cars from the road each year, a saving of 2.4t of CO2.

The Canadians are also using timber for bridges and agricultural buildings and they are excited for what the future brings as they [https://cwc.ca/how-to-build-with-wood/codes-standards/wood-design-in-the-national-building-code-of-canada/ make revisions] to the National Building Code of Canada to allow mass timber in buildings up to 42m.

From April this year, [https://www.build-in-wood.eu/post/new-standard-for-timber-buildings-denmark Denmark] allowed timber to be used on buildings up to 45m.

But timber isn’t exclusively used for tall buildings. In Australia, [https://www.yourhome.gov.au/materials/lightweight-framing lightweight framing] is the most common way to build, with timber or steel being the preferred materials. The environmental benefit of using timber is not lost and a comparison between sawn timber, steel, concrete and aluminium shows that timber not only releases the least carbon during construction, but it is also the only building material that stores carbon.

In New Zealand, [https://d39d3mj7qio96p.cloudfront.net/media/documents/BRANZ_RN_Physical_characteristics_1.pdf timber frame is the dominant system] used to construct houses, with a historical market share of around 90% compared to steel framing, masonry or concrete, for example.

Taking timber use a step further, the [https://www.dezeen.com/2020/02/12/france-public-buildings-sustainability-law-50-per-cent-wood/ French government] announced last year that all new public buildings must be made from at least 50% timber or other natural materials, with implementation taking place from 2022.

Building with timber is commonly reported in the aforementioned countries, but its environmental and innovative benefits are being recognised even in the smallest countries.

The [https://en.armradio.am/2021/02/16/timber-frame-homes-being-built-in-artsakh/ Republic of Artsakh Government] began a timber-framed home pilot programme at the start of the year and [https://www.tl.undp.org/content/timor_leste/en/home/blog/2020/rethinking-building-construction-in-an-era-of-climate-crisis.html Timor-Leste], which currently has no building regulations for building greener is looking to use coconut timber and bamboo among other natural materials. The tiny island is number nine on the list of countries most vulnerable to climate change with approximately 400 homes lost to disaster each year.

= Barriers to timber in construction =

While the global appetite for timber in construction is growing, it’s important to consider the factors that are preventing growth

Following the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 and Dame Judith Hackitt’s consequent inquiry, the UK’s blanket ban on using combustible materials above 18m has diverted attention to fire safety. Safety is paramount for any building and while timber is an obvious sustainable choice for greener buildings, proving fire resistance is key for furthering its use.

Elsewhere, the fire safety evidence appears to be satisfactory for the governments pushing their timber building agenda forward. There’s much the UK can learn from this and supporting government policies and building regulations are fundamental if we are to meet sustainability targets.

Timber supply, and its current shortage, presents a challenge for many countries, especially those reliant on it being sourced externally. In the UK there is a shortage, but the timber industry needs to continue stoking up the demand and capitalise on the importance of using timber in construction. It proves the need for more homegrown timber and investment from the government to [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2021/02/02/2021-tackling-climate-change-with-timber/ support UK forestry.]

Another key consideration, particularly for countries supplying tropical timber is [https://woodforgood.com/videos/sustainable sustainable procurement]. In Latin American, African, and Southeast Asian countries, deforestation and piracy is a major issue with illegal logging damaging the environment, local economy and removing opportunities for local people. Compliance schemes and certification systems, such as PEFC, ensure the supply chain is regulated to prevent illegal timber from entering global timber markets.

The future for timber is bright. Though it feels stalled in the UK, the rest of the world is grabbing this natural, renewable building material and applying it where possible to create a greener built environment. The UK timber industry and all who champion building with wood are tasked with the vital challenge of providing the evidence needed that allows the UK to re-join the race for greener buildings with supportive robust and progressive legislation.

[[Category:Education]]

Wood and healthy office spaces

2021-06-16T14:00:58Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "As lockdown restrictions begin to lift across the UK, entertainment, hospitality, public and office spaces re-open their doors. Last year, around [https://www.ons.gov.uk/employme..."

As lockdown restrictions begin to lift across the UK, entertainment, hospitality, public and office spaces re-open their doors. Last year, around [https://www.ons.gov.uk/employmentandlabourmarket/peopleinwork/employmentandemployeetypes/bulletins/coronavirusandhomeworkingintheuk/april2020 40% of UK workers] worked from home in some capacity, and despite trends predicting that some work can be done remotely, there is still a desire for some aspects of work to be done in the workplace.

But in a post-lockdown world, what will our workplaces look and feel like? What aspects are going to be most important when it comes to designing and creating a space where workers can collaborate safely?

= Is the office dead? =

In its report, The Future of work after COVID-19, the McKinsey Global Institute found that while remote work has been adopted by a significant number of workers, there are some types of work that technically could be done remotely but are best done in person. Examples of this include: “Negotiations, critical business decisions, brainstorming sessions, providing sensitive feedback, and onboarding new employees.”

A focus on blended or flexible working in 2021 is one of the top trends predicted for employers. A recent survey found that only [https://www.knightfrank.co.uk/office-space/insights/culture-and-space/prefer-to-work-poll 8% of employees] want to continue working from home or remotely for five days a week. The office is still very much alive and a communal area for catching up with colleagues and a space to brainstorm and work distraction-free is desired by workers.

However, employers should consider the flexibility of their space and whether it can be adjusted and deconstructed to create alternative layouts. A new flexible workspace at [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/6-orsman-road 6 Orsman Road] has been designed with this in mind. Featuring a demountable partition system, it can be altered and reconfigured to the needs of occupants.

= Wellbeing comes out top in design trends =

Isolation caused by the Covid-19 pandemic has brought with it a nationwide mental health crisis. Consequently, [https://www.propertyweek.com/insight/offices-look-to-a-post-covid-future/5111698.article wellbeing is at the top of the agenda] for many employers when rethinking and redesigning their office spaces post-Covid-19. This could be achieved through considerations such as blended or flexible hours, spaces that encourage connection with colleagues, or providing a comforting, calming environment to work in.

In addition to creating a welcoming space for workers to return to, hygiene and air quality will be of the utmost importance in making workers feel safe. From sanitising stations, regular cleaning to temperature checks, offices around the world are taking necessary measures to provide a clean environment. In addition to opening windows, air quality could be enhanced in an office space with greater ventilation, more plants and better material selection. Natural materials such as wood can be used in products to help regulate humidity, providing better indoor air quality.

=== [[File:Fforest%20Lodge%20Japanese%20room%20.jpg|417px]] ===

= Biophilic principles can bolster healthy spaces =

Research around biophilic design and connection to nature has long attested the fact that natural materials and natural scenery in a room can have a positive impact on its occupants.

Biophilia is the link between humans and nature and is about bringing natural elements indoors. Biophilic design incorporates natural elements,views and materials in design.

Rooms containing wood products have been shown to reduce stress and heart rates of occupants. With a large number of workers reporting problems with their mental health, and [https://www.bupa.co.uk/newsroom/ourviews/return-to-work-anxiety 65% of workers in the UK reporting to be anxious about returning to work in an office,] any changes that can help ease stress and promote a sense of calm could have a really positive impact.

Stora Enso recently released a [https://f.hubspotusercontent40.net/hubfs/4056792/Wood%20Products/Wood%20House%20Effect/StoraEnso_Wood_buildings_wellbeing_white_paper.pdf?__hstc=&__hssc=&hsCtaTracking=23b78b4a-2e53-47d1-956a-e207b58cdee2%7Cb85ba3c5-d7ff-4503-887f-b25079390167 whitepaper] that evidences the different effects that using wood can have on building occupants. From flooring to desks, walls to countertops, it shows that exposure to wooden products of all shapes and sizes can improve focus, reduce stress, bolster creativity and even encourage more social interaction.

= Two birds with one stone =

In 2020 there was a real push towards a green recovery and climate change is still a critical focus for many in 2021. The public is more aware of its personal contribution, and companies are stepping up to the challenge by creating more sustainable and eco-friendly office spaces.

Small changes like banning disposable water cups and straws, introducing recycling bins, turning off lights or cutting down on paper use can all help to reduce the operational carbon footprint of an office space. Yet it is considered, sustainable practices in the building of a new office and its interiors that will make a huge difference in the embodied carbon footprint of the space.

As trees grow they sequester and store CO2 from the atmosphere as carbon. Every time you choose a wood product, you are helping to reduce CO2 emissions through the carbon stored in that product, through the replanting of trees, and because that product has been chosen over alternative CO2-intensive resources. Not only could a natural material like wood help to promote health and wellbeing for workers, but it could also help reduce an organisation's overall carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices.

Find out more about embodied and operational carbon [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Wood_and_carbon here.]

See how wood can be used for a healthy home interior [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/Timber_and_healthy_interiors here.]

=== ===

Wood and the Circular Economy

2021-06-16T13:36:30Z

Wood for Good:

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| [[File:Wood_circular.jpg|link=File:Wood_circular.jpg]]
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= Introduction =

Throwaway culture is on the rise, yet so is the awareness of climate change. It is a paradoxical situation and one that needs addressing now on both sides.

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) [https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/874265/UK_Statistics_on_Waste_statistical_notice_March_2020_accessible_FINAL_rev_v0.5.pdf reported that] 62% of total waste accumulated in the UK was down to construction, demolition and excavation. And the [https://www.circularity-gap.world/2020 Circle Economy] claims that global construction of housing and infrastructure has the largest resource footprint at 38.8 billion tonnes. These are difficult statistics for the construction industry, but they can be reversed.

= The circular economy =

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation [https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/circular-economy/what-is-the-circular-economy defines the circular economy] as: “based on the principles of designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems.”

Adapting to a circular way of thinking is imperative for the construction industry to reduce its negative environmental impact. A circular approach is the way forward to help reduce our current linear method which encourages waste. Circularity needs to be designed into construction projects to ensure it is the most sustainable route, using the most sustainable materials.

These are the sentiments of the latest [https://circularity-gap.world/2021 Circularity Gap report] from impact organisation, [https://www.circle-economy.com/ Circle Economy]. Inspired by the annual [https://www.unep.org/emissions-gap-report-2020 Emissions Gap report] by the [https://www.unep.org/ UN Environment Programme], the Circularity Gap Report Initiative was founded in 2017. Since then, it has been tracking the global evolution of the circular economy and highlighting where progress can be made.

In the 2021 report, it highlights seven societal needs and wants, one of which is housing.

The report advocates for retrofitting existing housing stock and finding ways to extend the life of these homes. It explores alternative routes such as co-housing and modular design for new builds that embrace flexibility and multi-use. This reduces floor space so that fewer materials are needed, and a more flexible layout extends the life of the building as it adapts to meet the needs of its occupants.

Critical to making housing more circular is the choice of materials. The report champions low-carbon, natural and renewable materials such as wood, straw and hemp. Using these materials alongside designing for disassembly allows for greater recyclability and regenerative material use. This helps reduce emissions, ensures materials stay in use for longer, and at the end of life, materials can still be broken down and turned into something new.

= Cradle to Cradle =

[https://mbdc.com/about-mbdc/ In 1995], architect William McDonough and chemist Dr Michael Braungart created the Cradle to Cradle Design Framework, which led to the [https://www.c2ccertified.org/ Cradle to Cradle Certified] Products Program (C2C Certified).

Their reason for developing this philosophy was to advocate for “intentionally designed products which eliminate the concept of waste, use clean energy, value clean water and celebrate diversity.”

It is a human-centric and environmental-centric approach to creating new products more efficiently and more sustainably that ultimately do not compromise the environment.

The framework is based on quality assessment and innovation. Products are assessed under five criteria called quality categories:

* Material health;
* Material re-utilisation;
* Renewable energy and carbon management;
* Water stewardship, and
* Social fairness.

The product is then given an overall certification level, a grade - Basic, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum - based on how many of the quality categories the product fulfils.

In 2017, the British Woodworking Federation did a [https://www.bwf.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/feasibility-study-british-woodworking-federation.pdf feasibility study] on cradle-to-cradle timber windows. The windows were awarded gold for material re-utilisation, renewable energy and carbon management, water stewardship and social fairness. Silver was awarded for material health, giving an overall 'silver' grading for timber windows. The only reason for not achieving Gold was that only 95% of the materials used were wood and preservatives. To get the top mark, 100% of the materials need to be assessed.

At the 2019 ASBP Awards, EcoCocon won the [https://asbp.org.uk/awards-shortlist/old-holloway Product Innovation Award] for its use of straw bale panels in a rural self-build. The [https://www.c2ccertified.org/products/scorecard/straw-panels panels were C2C Certified] with a silver award, and the project was a first for using this particular system in the UK. What impressed judges most was “the combination of extremely high fabric efficiency (Passivhaus certification) achieved through the use of a range of low-impact, natural materials to create a comfortable, healthy environment.”

With the number of C2C Certified products rising, others have been inspired to raise awareness of this offering, cue the creation of [https://www.cradletocradlemarketplace.com/page/built-environment/ Cradle to Cradle Marketplace]. As a natural renewable building material, it is unsurprising there are already a number of timber C2C Certified products available for the built environment.

= Cradle to Cradle in practice =

The [https://mbdc.com/how-to-get-your-product-cradle-to-cradle-certified/ Cradle to Cradle Certified Products Program] is not only a certification scheme but a benchmark for design. It is not just the product’s ability to be regenerated that makes it attractive, it is the safety of the product too. As part of the certification process, all the components making up the product are tested against toxicity standards and any risks are identified. This extends to the supply chain too.

In a [https://www.dezeen.com/2020/06/18/ikea-coronavirus-ellen-macarthur-foundation/ recent interview in Dezeen], Ikea’s head of circular design, Malin Nordin, announced its partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Nordin talked of the importance of embedding the circular message into its supply chain. "What we realised quite quickly is that IKEA being a circular company on its own is quite pointless. We are interdependent of other businesses."

This stance from huge global brands is likely to trickle down and influence the supply chain. Eventually, it could be a requirement for any supplier feeding into a circular economy-led business.

Major housebuilder, [https://www.house-builder.co.uk/news/barratt-calls-upon-suppliers-prioritise-sustainability/ Barratt Developments], announced two sustainability targets for its supply chain at its 2020 Supply Chain Conference to help reduce waste and reduce carbon emissions. It also [https://www.barrattdevelopments.co.uk/sustainability/taking-action/case-studies/Creating-opportunities-circular-economy recycles wood waste] through social enterprise, Community Wood Recycling, and donated 790 tonnes in 2019. This was used in the community for uses such as DIY projects, biomass heating and woodchip.

It makes good business sense for anybody involved with designing, making or specifying products to look at the changes they need to make to ensure inclusion in these supply chains if they are to be future-proof and enable a circular economy.

= Building the UK’s circular economy =

The Vision 2040 of the European Forest-Based Sector targets material collection rates of forest-based products at 90% and for their reuse and recycling to account for 70% of all recyclable material. This idea of a circular economy would store carbon and substitute more energy-intensive materials.

In the UK, the Green Building Council (UKGBC) is working with its members and the wider industry to develop [https://www.ukgbc.org/ukgbc-work/circular-economy/ practical guidance] which will enable organisations working in the built environment to overcome the barriers to implementing circular economy principles.

= Wood helps the world go round =

In the timber industry, many companies are already recording environmental data to help prove a product’s credentials. The [https://woodforgood.com/lifecycle-database/ Lifecycle Database] is based on generic wood products in the UK including structural products, panel products, solid timber products and windows. The data collected is based on Lifecycle Assessments (LCA) and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).

The LCA covers cradle to grave, including forestry, harvesting, transportation, processing and manufacturing, through to the various end of life options. Measuring the manufacturing of products in this way not only provides traceability but provides insight into the performance of the product too.

Timber membership bodies take sustainability seriously and many have policies, tools and certification schemes in place that support the circular economy approach.

= Circular design =

A key element to making the circular economy work is circular design. The [https://www.circulardesignguide.com/ Circular Design Guide] offers advice and an abundance of free resources to encourage discussions around the concept. Architects often face difficulties in persuading clients to go with an option that is not the norm. The Circular Design Guide offers advice on how to have this conversation with a client and educate them on why circular design is so important.

Guidance is offered on material choice including [https://www.circulardesignguide.com/post/journey-mapping ‘materials journey mapping’]. Created in partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, it encourages those involved to think about the parts and materials, processing, production, sourcing, and other product ‘ingredients.’

= Wooden consumables =

One of the key points from the 2021 Circularity Gap report is the damaging effects of take-make-waste practices. Consumables such as clothing and furniture play a huge role in unnecessary waste. Fortunately, consumables such as these can often be reused or recycled. It all depends on the materials they are created from.

Focusing on furniture, the report suggests, as with housing, the materials used should be low-carbon, natural, renewable and locally sourced where possible. The report encourages a design for disassembly approach, with options for customisation and for replacement parts to be easily sourced. It champions the use of wood products and by-products, focusing on responsibly sourced timber furniture.

Recycled timber can also be used for fencing, decking, cladding and timber garden structures. It is a great way to incorporate circular design into outdoor spaces too. To ensure the longevity of the use of timber outdoors, it is imperative to understand the need for appropriate treatment.

In a bid to improve knowledge in this area, the [https://www.thewpa.org.uk/make-sure-it-s-4 Wood Protection Association] (WPA) has partnered with the [https://ttf.co.uk/ Timber Trade Federation] (TTF) and the [https://www.tdca.org.uk/home/ Timber Decking & Cladding Association (]TDCA). A [https://ttf.co.uk/join-the-positive-promotion-of-timber-treatments/ campaign targeting merchants] will launch from 1 April to ensure they are providing accurate and specific information to customers.

= Unwrapping timber pallets =

One wood product that has proven its ability to be reused or recycled is the wooden pallet. Throughout the pandemic, the pallet and packaging industry has been an essential industry, as pallets are used primarily to transport goods safely. They have been instrumental in transporting necessities across the country, and are currently assisting with the transportation of [https://www.jamesjones.co.uk/news-and-updates/james-jones-and-sons-pallets-support-deliveries-of-covid-19-vaccine the Covid-19 vaccine.]

A champion of circularity, timber pallets can be repaired several times for reuse in the packaging industry, giving them several 'lives' as a pallet. Additionally, pallets have also been a popular choice for home projects. Repurposed pallets are ideal for those who like a rustic or industrial touch for their home, and creative lockdown projects have seen pallets repurposed into desks, bars, coffee tables, sheds and even an [https://www.yourhomestyle.uk/diy/best-lockdown-diy-projects/ outdoor cinema.]

Once wooden pallets do come to the end of their life, after being reused and repaired or repurposed, they can be recycled into chipboard, extending the life of the timber again. They are a true example of a circular product.

= Wood CO2ts less =

Wood befits the ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ movement. It also helps to reduce CO2 in the atmosphere thus contributing to the slowing down of climate change as wood captures and stores carbon. It is a cost-free solution to carbon capture. Wood can also be used to offset sectors of the economy that cannot become carbon neutral, so it is beneficial to use this natural and renewable material instead of other materials.

Studies have shown wood products can improve emotional state, reduce blood pressure, heart rate and stress and improve sleep patterns. [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/?filterUpdate=Update&t%5B%5D=10 Wood interiors] also add warmth and character. Therefore, it is often used in biophilic design, a way of bringing the outdoors in.

To find out more about wood and the circular economy including biobased materials, [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2019/03/31/circular-building-materials-bio-cycle-versus-techno-cycle/ read this interview] we did last year with sustainability expert Pablo van der Lugt.

Find out more about the Wood CO2ts less campaign [https://woodforgood.com/co2 here].

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

* 5 things leaders can do to create a truly circular economy.
* A social, circular economy.
* BREEAM Construction waste management.
* Building Revolutions - review.
* Circular economy - transforming the worlds number one consumer of raw materials.
* Construction waste.
* Cradle to cradle product registry system.
* Deconstruction.
* Design for deconstruction.
* End of life potential.
* Facts about forestry.
* Green supply chain management.
* Life cycle.
* Mean lean green.
* Recyclable construction materials.
* Recycling.
* Reduce, reuse, recycle.
* Regenerative design.
* Renewable energy.
* Sustainable materials.
* Sustainability.
* Waste management plan.

= External references =

* [https://www.bwf.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/feasibility-study-british-woodworking-federation.pdf British Woodworking Federation feasibility study]
* [https://www.c2ccertified.org/products/scorecard/straw-panels C2C Certified]
* [https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/ad6e59_ba1e4d16c64f44fa94fbd8708eae8e34.pdf Circularity Gap Report for 2019]
* [https://www.c2ccertified.org/ Cradle to Cradle Certified] (C2C Certified)
* [https://www.cradletocradlemarketplace.com/page/built-environment/ Cradle to Cradle Marketplace]
* [https://www.ukgbc.org/ukgbc-work/circular-economy/ Green Building Council (UKGBC) practical guidance]
* [https://asbp.org.uk/awards-shortlist/old-holloway Product Innovation Award].

--[[User:Wood_for_Good|Wood for Good]]

[[Category:DCN_Commentary]] [[Category:DCN_Guidance]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]] [[Category:Circular_economy]] [[Category:Organisations]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood and climate change in 2021

2021-02-17T14:37:07Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "2020 is a year we will never forget. Aside from the obvious talking point, 2020 was also one of the hottest years on record. Climate change is real, and time is running out. Las..."

2020 is a year we will never forget. Aside from the obvious talking point, 2020 was also one of the hottest years on record. Climate change is real, and time is running out.

Last year, there was a real momentum building towards a green recovery. 2021 has the potential to turn things around, and therefore climate change is a critical focus for the timber and forestry industries this year. Solid efforts will be made to decrease carbon emissions throughout the year, culminating with the United Nations’ Climate Conference, COP26, taking place in Glasgow in November.

So, what are the timber and forestry industries doing in 2021 to get the UK closer to its net zero target?

== 1. Planting more trees ==

The UK is highly dependent on importing timber, with 80% of all timber used sourced in this way. This caused supply issues for the construction industry at the onset of the pandemic, and Brexit has further hindered the supply chain.

Increased tree cover in the UK would create a natural carbon store and if managed and harvested appropriately, trees can also be used to produce more home-grown timber.

To make it happen, there needs to be political buy-in, achievable targets and robust management and harvesting. These were the key points made by Caroline Ayre, Confor’s national manager for England, and Tom Barnes, managing director at Vastern Timber, at a [https://www.confor.org.uk/news/latest-news/parliamentary-group-shines-light-on-government-planting-targets-one-year-on-from-general-election/ recent meeting] for the All Party Parliamentary Group on Forestry and Tree Planting.

Scotland leads the way for timber and forestry in the UK, closely followed by Wales. 2021 began positively for the Scottish forestry sector. The [https://www.dgtap.co.uk/growing-rural-talent-forestry-jobs-summit Growing Rural Talent initiative], in partnership with Confor, Scottish Forestry, Forestry and Land Scotland and Skills Development Scotland, will award subsidies to forestry firms who recruit young people. This will allow Scotland to keep striving towards its earlier net zero target of 2045 by planting more trees and producing more homegrown timber.

In England, tree planting has not been as successful. Despite a government pledge to increase tree planting, it was [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2020/12/02/forestry-in-the-uk-sorting-the-facts-from-the-fiction/ reported last year] that England is falling short of the target. £92 million will be made available from April this year with the intention to plant 7,500 hectares a year to meet the 2025 target for woodland cover.

== 2. Building with timber ==

Creating new buildings or retrofitting existing buildings with low-carbon, renewable building materials is key to reducing carbon emissions in the built environment.

The construction industry must challenge the status quo if it is to reduce its carbon footprint. Innovation is increasing in construction and the tools are there for anyone who is serious about creating sustainable buildings.

The government kicked off the year with the early release of the [https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-future-homes-standard-changes-to-part-l-and-part-f-of-the-building-regulations-for-new-dwellings Future Homes Standard]. It contains some encouraging guidance around Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and the use of timber. But scrutinous climate change group, Architects Climate Action Network (ACAN), pointed out a missing ingredient: embodied carbon.

Embodied carbon, defined by the [https://www.ukgbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/UK-GBC-EC-Developing-Client-Brief.pdf UK Green Building Council] (UKGBC) as ‘the total greenhouse gas emissions generated to produce a built asset’, was highlighted in responses to the Future Homes Standard consultation. Yet, it has been neglected from the new standard.

Low carbon heating and energy systems are imperative, but it is not the only way to reduce harmful emissions. By taking a fabric first approach and choosing a natural and renewable material such as timber, embodied carbon is reduced.

Timber structural systems, such as timber frame or cross-laminated timber, not only embody carbon ([https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/wood-in-construction-in-the-uk-an-analysis-of-carbon-abatement-potential-biocomposites-centre/ at around 20 - 60% per building]) but also deliver the benefits of modern methods of construction. Choosing build systems like these reduces build time, reduces waste, improves safety and causes less disruption in the local area.

Launched amid the pandemic, the [https://woodforgood.com/co2 Wood CO2ts less] campaign was well received throughout the construction industry. It aims to promote the use of all wood products as low carbon materials, and illustrates how using wood can help to reduce CO in the atmosphere and slow climate heating.

Work continues this year with more supporters and champions, pushing the agenda on the importance of increasing timber’s use in construction.

== 3. Talking timber in 2021 ==

Tropical forests play a critical role in supplying timber but remain at risk from illegal logging and poor practices. Wherever unregulated logging takes place, it impacts the people, the economy and the environment.

To encourage discussion on this topic, the [https://www.buildingcentre.co.uk/whats_on/exhibitions/new-dates-conversations-about-climate-change-2021-02-12 Conversations about Climate Change] exhibition opened virtually on 12 February 2021. A collaboration between the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) and the Building Centre, it is a showcase of design objects created from tropical hardwood that highlights the urgency of the climate change debate.

From theory to practice, the [https://cti-timber.org/campaigns/riverside-sunderland-university-design-challenge/ Riverside Sunderland: University Design Challenge] also launched in February. Quoted as “the most ambitious city centre regeneration project in the UK”, Riverside Sunderland has teamed up with MOBIE and the Confederation of Timber Industries.

Open to built environment students and 2020 graduates, the collaborative challenge requires teams to design a 3-bedroom family home and an indicative masterplan, including landscape and greenscape. All designs must make use of timber or timber hybrid, use MMC and exceed the RIBA 2030 challenge.

Wood for Good is proud to back this initiative and eagerly anticipates the submissions, proof that homes can be and do so much more.

== 4. Timber solutions in 2021 ==

On the same day the Future Homes Standard was announced, so was a new national [https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-regulator-established-to-ensure-construction-materials-are-safe construction products regulator]. One of the initiatives born out of the inquiry into the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the regulator will ensure homes are built with safe materials. Dave Hopkins, TTF CEO, [https://ttf.co.uk/new-regulator-for-construction-products/ welcomed the regulator] and shared that the TTF will be working closely with the Construction Products Association, the government, and across the timber supply chain.

The Structural Timber Association [http://www.structuraltimber.co.uk/sectors/clt-special-interest-group CLT Special Interest Group] continues its work in 2021 to provide guidance and evidence to support the fire safe design of mass timber High Rise Residential Buildings (HRRB) and commercial buildings.

Following a review of the ban on the use of combustible materials in and on the external walls of buildings in 2020, the construction industry is still awaiting the government’s response.

Also flying the flag for fire safety and timber is the British Woodworking Federation (BWF). This year will see the 9th Fire Door Safety Week in September. The BWF’s work to ensure fire door safety is given the attention it deserves is coordinated with numerous training opportunities and expert guidance for anyone responsible for the design, manufacture, installation and maintenance of a fire door.

== 5. Celebrating timber in 2021 ==

Despite last year’s challenges, the construction industry continues to produce exemplar homes and buildings using timber. In the face of Covid-19, climate change and Brexit, there is much that deserves to be celebrated.

Kicking off 2021’s celebrations was the STA’s [https://www.structuraltimberawards.co.uk/ Structural Timber Awards], which took place virtually on Wednesday 27 January. Both the winners and those shortlisted demonstrated innovative ways to build with timber, creating more sustainable and healthier buildings.

On 24 February, the [https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/aj-retrofit-awards-2021-shortlist-revealed-housing-and-houses Architects’ Journal Retrofit Awards] will see entries including alma-nac’s ‘house within a house’ contending for a prize.

Later in the year the [https://woodawards.com/ Wood Awards] will take place. Going beyond the structure and interior of a building, the Wood Awards also has categories for smaller projects such as garden studios, furniture and products.

[[Category:Organisations]]

Facts about forestry

2021-02-09T12:00:47Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "It is a privilege to be surrounded by trees. Their ability to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and store it in their trunks and branches makes trees a powerful res..."

It is a privilege to be surrounded by trees. Their ability to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and store it in their trunks and branches makes trees a powerful resource for creating a sustainable built environment.

It may sometimes seem confusing that we are as keen to cut down trees as we are to plant them. Unlike many other building materials, wood can be reused, repaired and recycled in multiple ways, and it is also a naturally renewable product.

In fact, the more trees we grow in a sustainable way, the more we can fell for building material and the more CO2 is stored from the atmosphere. [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2020/07/29/encompassing-the-circular-economy/ It is a naturally circular cycle.]

In the face of myths about the UK forestry industry, we wanted to arm you with the facts. We've listed 10 facts about the UK forestry industry that can help you distinguish fact from fiction:

=== Fact 1: It is possible to plant enough trees to ensure a balance between sequestering (capturing) carbon and providing timber for building materials. ===

The reason this has not been done at scale can be attributed to a lack of support from the government and policy making. Now that the government is serious about tackling climate change and meeting its net zero target of 2050, it has pledged to rapidly increase forestry in the UK. In November 2020’s spending review, chancellor [https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/938052/SR20_Web_Accessible.pdf Rishi Sunak announced] £92m will be made available from April 2021 to help plant 30,000 hectares of trees in England per year, thus capturing carbon and boosting biodiversity.

Increasing forestry creates more opportunities for homegrown timber, which creates more jobs and contributes directly to the UK economy. Forest management schemes ensure that there are enough mature trees available for harvesting while younger trees do the job of capturing carbon.

=== 
Fact 2: Leaving old trees to do all the work is not the most efficient way. ===

Maintaining a consistent turnover of trees is fundamental to maximising carbon capture. In [https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-020-2686-x new research] released in September, it recognised that young trees capture carbon quickly enough to make a difference.

The key is to ensure a mix of new and old trees and diversity of species. Careful planning and understanding of a forest is vital to the success of the trees being able to do their job.

In the Confor report ‘[https://www.confor.org.uk/news/latest-news/biodiversity-forestry-and-wood/ Biodiversity, Forestry and Wood’], evidence shows that young forests and non-native species of trees have significant biodiversity value.

=== Fact 3: There is ample space within the UK to increase forestry. ===

Latest figures show there is 3.2 million hectares of woodland in the UK. This equates to approximately 13% of land in the UK being dedicated to forestry. In the UK Committee on Climate Change report ‘[https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/land-use-policies-for-a-net-zero-uk/ Land use: Policies for a Net Zero UK’], it recommends increasing this by 4%, hence the government’s target of 30,000 hectares of tree planting per year.

In Wales, where homegrown timber and forestry investment is further along than in England, many agricultural landowners have opted to grow trees instead, which is often a more lucrative investment for them. This is a positive step forward to increase forestry.

=== Fact 4: There are standards in place to support forestry management. ===

Though take-up is lower than desired and there is still much work to be done in his area, the latest [https://www.sylva.org.uk/bws British Woodland Survey] highlights that interest in UK Forestry Standard ([https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-uk-forestry-standard UKFS]) compliant management is on the rise.

The UKFS promotes sustainable forest management and is overseen by Natural Resources Wales, the Northern Ireland Forest Service and the Forestry Commission in England and Scotland.

Another standard, the UK Woodland Assurance Standard [http://ukwas.org.uk/ (UKWAS)] verifies sustainable woodland management and is part of both the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) certification schemes.

Eleanor Harris, policy researcher at Confor, said in a [https://www.forestryjournal.co.uk/news/18835411.confor-report-criticised-continuous-cover-forestry-comments/ recent interview]:

“The UK’s wood-producing productive forests, managed under UKFS and UKWAS, are delivering significant benefits for biodiversity which deserve recognition in land management discussions.”

=== Fact 5: Tropical forests can be both beautiful and a working forest. ===

There will always be a need for some timber to be imported and there are legal measures in place to protect the world’s rainforests.

Forest certification programmes, the [https://www.fsc-uk.org/ FSC] and the [https://www.pefc.co.uk/ PEFC], protect and promote sustainable forest management. Both organisations work with the supply chain and relevant industry bodies to ensure timber imported to and exported from the UK is legal and certified.

Certification provides a stamp of approval that a supplier has legally and sustainably sourced the timber. It also protects the environment, economy and people within the area of the forest the timber is sourced from. Neglecting to source timber in this way is illegal.

=== Fact 6: Protecting wildlife, biodiversity and preventing loss of habitat is achieved with effective forest management. ===

The [https://www.confor.org.uk/news/latest-news/biodiversity-forestry-and-wood/ ‘Biodiversity, Forestry and Wood’] report highlights the positive impact of modern forestry and wood production in the UK. The benefits include:

# The significant biodiversity value attributed to forests planted for wood production
# Improved condition of native woodlands used for wood production
# Natural capital benefits extending beyond the forests e.g. reducing flooding, improved air quality.

The forestry industry is ready to deliver these benefits and for the UK to gain from home-grown timber and the biodiversity it can bring.

=== Fact 7: The uses for timber are wide-reaching. ===

Structural systems for buildings, fencing, interiors and furniture can all be made from timber.

Wood delivers on innovative design, speed, cost and resource efficiency, and offers a path to a low carbon economy. By specifying appropriate timber species and products for each application, architects and building users can be assured that those timber products will last for a long time.

=== Fact 8: CO2 released during the milling and manufacturing process (embodied carbon) can be offset. ===

Using timber for construction and joinery products is one way to balance out the carbon emitted during the milling, manufacturing and construction phase.

Another option is signing up to a scheme such as [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2020/10/29/a-carbon-solution-for-all/ CarbonStore]. Established by Tilhill, a BSW group member, any organisation from any industry looking to offset their carbon emissions can do so through investing in woodlands. Using the [https://woodlandcarboncode.org.uk/ Woodland Carbon Code], calculations are made, and a business partnership is established with the farmers and landowners. The company invests and offsets their annual carbon emissions and the farmers and landowners can increase their woodland size.

=== Fact 9: Increased forestry will create and maintain more jobs and will contribute to the economy. ===

England has shown some promise following the planting of more than 200,000 trees at the Lowther Estate in Cumbria, one of the largest schemes in the country. Assisted by lobbying from Confor, the forest has also created more jobs. Another success story, also lobbied by Confor, is Doddington Moor in Northumberland. This is the largest project in England in 30 years and it is hoped it will spur on many more. Since its establishment in 1995, The National Forest in the Midlands has grown and the area has benefited from job creation, increased woodland skills and a lower carbon economy.

In the spending review, the pledged £92 million for planting more trees is also expected to create 1,000 new jobs.

There is so much potential for a thriving UK forestry industry, which already contributes £2bn annually to the economy, yet 81% of wood products used in the UK are imported.

=== Fact 10: If forestry is not increased now, the UK will suffer a supply decline. ===

A target has been set by the government for tree planting, but efforts and funding will need to be ramped up now. Between 1 April and 30 September this year, [https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/936083/Government-Supported-New-Planting-Trees-England-30Sep20.pdf only 763 hectares] of trees were planted. It is clear we have a long way to go to meet the 30,000 hectare annual target from April 2021.

In Scotland, a [https://dailybusinessgroup.co.uk/2020/11/more-scots-timber-poised-for-use-in-uk-construction/ consortium of timber] industry organisations have collaborated to push for the use of homegrown Scottish timber. The group has secured funding from Innovate UK’s Sustainable Innovation Fund to present a business case to the UK construction industry to consider Scottish timber before imports. The research has begun and will be shared at COP 26 in Glasgow in November 2021.

=== Wood CO2ts less – The Forestry Story ===

Using wood from sustainably managed forests instead of other materials is a simple way to help reduce carbon emissions. One hectare of forestry captures 483 tonnes of CO2 over a 40-year cycle. This is stored safely when converted to timber and wood products and with trees re-planted, the process can start over again.

If we can increase forestry in the UK we can sequester more carbon. And if we build with more wood we can create a built environment that contributes to the slowing of climate change. You can find out more about the Wood CO2ts less campaign and what we strive for [https://woodforgood.com/co2 here].

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Policy]] [[Category:Sustainability]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Procurement]]

Wood, embodied carbon and operational carbon

2020-10-20T10:48:30Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "The race is on to achieve net zero buildings. Key to decreasing the built environment’s impact on climate change is to reduce carbon emissions. Environmentally friendly buildin..."

The race is on to achieve net zero buildings. Key to decreasing the built environment’s impact on climate change is to reduce carbon emissions. Environmentally friendly building materials help, but to achieve long term benefits the whole lifecycle of a building must be taken into consideration.

Embodied carbon, also known as embedded carbon or carbon capital, is defined by the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) as [https://www.ukgbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/UK-GBC-EC-Developing-Client-Brief.pdf ‘the total greenhouse gas emissions generated to produce a built asset’]. This means knowing how much carbon dioxide (CO2) is emitted from extraction, processing and manufacturing, transportation and assembly of every building product used.

Operational carbon is often measured alongside embodied carbon. It is the collective [https://www.istructe.org/resources/guidance/carbon-embodied-operational/ CO2 emissions produced for a building to run], from the energy and ventilation systems through to IT equipment.

=== 
Building with less carbon ===

According to the Institute of Structural Engineers (ISE), [https://www.istructe.org/resources/guidance/carbon-embodied-operational/ embodied carbon can contribute 10 to 20%] of a building’s total carbon footprint. In a typical new office building, 50% of the embodied carbon is in the structure alone.

To identify how much embodied carbon a building creates, and therefore how it can be reduced, involves looking at the entire building life cycle, particularly at the design and build stage and demolition stage.

There are numerous assessments and guidance available that identify ways to reduce embodied carbon including:

* [https://www.rics.org/globalassets/rics-website/media/upholding-professional-standards/sector-standards/building-surveying/whole-life-carbon-assessment-for-the-built-environment-1st-edition-rics.pdf Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Methodology to calculate embodied carbon of materials]
* [https://www.architecture.com/-/media/GatherContent/Whole-life-carbon-assessment-for-architects/Additional-Documents/11241WholeLifeCarbonGuidancev7pdf.pdf Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Embodied and whole life carbon assessment]
* [https://www.wrap.org.uk/sites/files/wrap/FINAL%20PRO095-009%20Embodied%20Carbon%20Annex.pdf Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) Cutting embodied carbon in construction projects]
* [https://www.ukgbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/UK-GBC-EC-Developing-Client-Brief.pdf UKGBC Embodied Carbon: Developing a client brief]
* [https://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail?pid=000000000030256638 BSI Sustainability of construction works. Assessment of environmental performance of buildings. Calculation method] (It’s worth noting this is currently under review)
* [https://circularecology.com/embodied-carbon-footprint-database.html Inventory of Carbon and Energy: ICE Database]
* [https://ice.org.uk/knowledge-and-resources/briefing-sheet/embodied-energy-and-carbon Institute of Civil Engineers Embodied Energy and Carbon briefing sheet].

Embodied carbon is usually measured on a cradle-to-gate basis. According to RICS, this is the “confines of the ‘cradle’ (earth) up to the factory gate of the final processing operation. This includes mining, raw materials extraction, processing and manufacturing.”

Using the RIBA’s Plan of Work, cradle to gate incorporates the Preparation and Design stage. These are the stages where positive changes can be made to ensure embodied carbon is reduced.

Recommendations to reduce embodied carbon include:

* Specifying natural and renewable materials such as timber, particularly for the structure;
* Specifying alternatives to cement mix such as lime and fly ash;
* Checking the Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) of a product for details on its carbon footprint (Wood products can be checked using the [https://woodforgood.com/index/lifecycle-database Lifecycle Database]);
* Using offsite construction to minimise wastage, reduce build time and improve quality;
* Applying circular economy thinking, particularly reusing materials or using fewer materials. This is key for the end of a building’s life.

=== Running with less carbon ===

At the centre of a building’s life cycle is where operational carbon emissions really kick in. This tends to be where the focus is when aiming to create a more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly building, however, it needs to extend beyond renewable energy and HVAC systems.

At this year’s Alliance for Sustainable Building Products (ASBP) conference, John Palmer, research and policy director at Passivhaus Trust, talked about the challenges for all homes to become net zero if reliant on renewable energy. “Homes need to be as fabric efficient as possible.” This is a sentiment that can be extended to all buildings.

A collaborative effort between UKGBC, the Better Buildings Partnership (BBP) and the London Energy Transformation Initiative (LETI) has identified key requirements for new buildings achieving net zero operational carbon. The key requirements that would contribute to more environmentally responsible and efficient buildings include:

* Low energy use
* Measurement and verification
* Reduction of construction impacts
* Low carbon energy supply
* Zero carbon balance

The plan encourages those involved with the design, construction and management of buildings to consult the following:

* [https://www.ukgbc.org/ukgbc-work/net-zero-carbon-buildings-a-framework-definition/ UKBGC Net Zero Carbon Buildings Framework]
* [https://www.betterbuildingspartnership.co.uk/node/360 BBP Design for Performance initiative]
* [https://www.architecture.com/about/policy/climate-action/2030-climate-challenge RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge]
* [https://goodhomes.org.uk/net-zero-map Good Homes Alliance (GHA) Net Zero Housing Project Map]
* [https://www.cibse.org/news-and-policy/july-2019/cibse-climate-action-plan-building-services-engi Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) Climate Action Plan]
* [https://www.leti.london/ LETI Climate Emergency Design Guide].

=== Reducing embodied and operational carbon in practice ===

In practice, [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/larch-corner Larch Corner,] designed by Passivhaus architect practice, LEAP, is an excellent example of how designers are getting closer to achieving net zero homes. This Cotswolds home was built with longevity in mind. By specifying timber as the material of choice it is calculated that embodied carbon has been reduced by 40%.

The cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure is combined with wood fibre insulation, timber windows and doors and external larch cladding. Space heating, air-source heat pumps, photo-voltaic panels and a sedum roof attribute to the property being completely airtight.

Another timber engineering feat is Norfolk school, the [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/the-open-academy/ Open Academy]. The CLT structure saved nearly 3,000 tonnes in CO2 in comparison to using steel or concrete. Ramboll, the engineering firm responsible for the school’s construction compare this to approximately 8.3 million car miles.

The amount of carbon sequestered (or stored) by the building offsets the operational carbon emissions for ten years. The project had an impressive construction time for a building of its scale and its modern methods of construction meant the building was installed by only 10 people in 18 weeks.

In Scotland, [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/cairngorms-national-park-authority-headquarters Cairngorms National Park Authority’s] new headquarters have perhaps the most impressive saving on operational carbon. Using CLT, the structure allows for a flexible space featuring timber-clad screens and by not using a reinforced concrete frame, it will offset operational carbon emissions for 47 years.

=== Wood CO2ts less ===

One of the simplest ways to capture carbon and reduce CO2 in the atmosphere is by increasing the use of wood in construction. In the [https://woodforgood.com/behind-the-facts-fact-5 Committee on Climate Change]’s 2019 Net Zero Technical Report it stated:

“Using Wood in Construction (WiC) provides a long-term store for carbon in the built environment. The potential contribution of WiC to removals of carbon from the atmosphere depends on both the level of future house building and the extent to which timber is used as part of the construction process. Avoided emissions from the production of cement and bricks are an additional advantage of using WiC.”

And in a [https://www.theccc.org.uk/publication/wood-in-construction-in-the-uk-an-analysis-of-carbon-abatement-potential-biocomposites-centre/ report published] by the BioComposites Centre at Bangor University it also highlighted the benefits of building more new homes using timber:

“…using timber frames rather than masonry can reduce carbon embodied emissions by around 20% per building. When CLT is chosen in place of concrete structures the effect is even greater, with carbon embodied emissions reduced by around 60%.”

To find out more facts about achieving net zero through designing and building with wood, [https://woodforgood.com/co2 visit here.]

[[Category:Definitions]] [[Category:Education]] [[Category:Organisations]] [[Category:Other_legislation]] [[Category:Regulations]] [[Category:Sustainability]]

Wood and the Circular Economy

2020-08-21T10:05:52Z

Wood for Good:

{|
| [[File:Wood_circular.jpg|link=File:Wood_circular.jpg]]
|}

= Introduction =

Throwaway culture is on the rise, yet so is the awareness and urgency of climate change. It is a paradoxical situation and one that needs addressing now on both sides.

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) [https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/874265/UK_Statistics_on_Waste_statistical_notice_March_2020_accessible_FINAL_rev_v0.5.pdf reported that] 62% of total waste accumulated in the UK was down to construction, demolition and excavation. And the [https://www.circularity-gap.world/2020 Circle Economy] claims that global construction of housing and infrastructure has the largest resource footprint at 38.8 billion tonnes.

These are shameful statistics for the construction industry, but the good news is they can be reversed.

= The Circular Economy =

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation [https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/circular-economy/what-is-the-circular-economy defines the circular economy] to be “based on the principles of designing out waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems.”

The [https://www.circularity-gap.world/2020 2020 Circulatory Gap Report] sites prioritising regenerative resources as one of the seven key elements of the circular economy and a transformational step forward: “Ensure renewable, reusable, non-toxic resources are utilised as materials and energy in an efficient way.”

This means a natural building material such as wood, which can be reused and recycled, is instrumental to the circular economy.

Wood is natural, it comes from trees. It can be turned into a product, reused, and at the end of its life it can be recycled into something else. It is a cycle and it works. But what makes a product truly circular and how can it be proven?

= Cradle to Cradle =

[https://mbdc.com/about-mbdc/ In 1995], architect William McDonough and chemist Dr Michael Braungart created the Cradle to Cradle Design Framework, which led to the [https://www.c2ccertified.org/ Cradle to Cradle Certified] Products Program (C2C Certified).

Their reason for developing this philosophy was to advocate for “intentionally designed products which eliminate the concept of waste, use clean energy, value clean water and celebrate diversity.”

It is a human-centric and environmental-centric approach to creating new products more efficiently and more sustainably that ultimately do not compromise the environment.

The framework is based on quality assessment and innovation. Products are assessed under five criteria called quality categories:

* Material health;
* Material re-utilisation;
* Renewable energy and carbon management;
* Water stewardship, and
* Social fairness.

The product is then given an overall certification level, a grade - Basic, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum - based on how many of the quality categories the product fulfils.

In 2017, the British Woodworking Federation did a [https://www.bwf.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/feasibility-study-british-woodworking-federation.pdf feasibility study] on cradle-to-cradle timber windows with C2C Certified. The windows were awarded gold for material re-utilisation, renewable energy and carbon management, water stewardship and social fairness. Silver was awarded for material health, giving an overall 'silver' grading for timber windows. The only reason for not achieving Gold was that only 95% of the materials used were wood and preservatives. To get the top mark, 100% of the materials need to be assessed.

At the 2019 ASBP Awards, EcoCocon won the [https://asbp.org.uk/awards-shortlist/old-holloway Product Innovation Award] for its use of straw bale panels in a rural self-build. The [https://www.c2ccertified.org/products/scorecard/straw-panels panels were C2C Certified] with a silver award, and the project was a first for using this particular system in the UK. What impressed judges most was “the combination of extremely high fabric efficiency (Passivhaus certification) achieved through the use of a range of low-impact, natural materials to create a comfortable, healthy environment.”

With the number of C2C Certified products rising, others have been inspired to raise awareness of this offering, cue the creation of [https://www.cradletocradlemarketplace.com/page/built-environment/ Cradle to Cradle Marketplace]. As a natural renewable building material, it is unsurprising there are already a number of timber C2C Certified products available for the built environment.

= Cradle to Cradle in practice =

The [https://mbdc.com/how-to-get-your-product-cradle-to-cradle-certified/ Cradle to Cradle Certified Products Program] is not only a certification scheme but a benchmark for design. It is not just the product’s ability to be regenerated that makes it attractive, it is the safety of the product too. As part of the certification process all the components making up the product are tested against toxicity standards and any risks it can pose are identified. This extends to the supply chain too.

In a [https://www.dezeen.com/2020/06/18/ikea-coronavirus-ellen-macarthur-foundation/ recent interview in Dezeen], Ikea’s head of circular design, Malin Nordin, announced its partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. Nordin talked of the importance of embedding the circular message into its supply chain. "What we realised quite quickly is that IKEA being a circular company on its own is quite pointless. We are interdependent of other businesses."

This stance from huge global brands is likely to trickle down and influence the supply chain. Eventually, it could be a requirement for any supplier feeding into a circular economy-led business.

Major housebuilder, [https://www.house-builder.co.uk/news/barratt-calls-upon-suppliers-prioritise-sustainability/ Barratt Developments], announced two sustainability targets for its supply chain at its 2020 Supply Chain Conference to help reduce waste and reduce carbon emissions. It also [https://www.barrattdevelopments.co.uk/sustainability/taking-action/case-studies/Creating-opportunities-circular-economy recycles wood waste] through social enterprise, Community Wood Recycling, and donated 790 tonnes in 2019. This was used in the community for uses such as DIY projects, biomass heating and woodchip.

It makes good business sense for anybody involved with designing, making or specifying products to look at the changes they need to make to ensure inclusion in these supply chains if they are to be future-proof and enable a circular economy.

= Building the UK’s circular economy =

The Vision 2040 of the European Forest-Based Sector targets material collection rates of forest-based products at 90% and for their reuse and recycling to account for 70% of all recyclable material. This idea of a circular economy would store carbon and substitute more energy-intensive materials.

In the UK, the Green Building Council (UKGBC) is working with its members and the wider industry to develop [https://www.ukgbc.org/ukgbc-work/circular-economy/ practical guidance] which will enable organisations working in the built environment to overcome the barriers to implementing circular economy principles.

= Wood helps the world go round =

In the timber industry, many companies are already recording environmental data to help prove a product’s credentials. The [https://woodforgood.com/lifecycle-database/ Lifecycle Database] is based on generic wood products in the UK including structural products, panel products, solid timber products and windows. The data collected is based on Lifecycle Assessments (LCA) and Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs).

The LCA covers cradle to grave, including forestry, harvesting, transportation, processing and manufacturing, through to the various end of life options. Measuring the manufacturing of products in this way not only provides traceability but provides insight into the performance of the product too.

Timber membership bodies take sustainability seriously and many have policies, tools and certification schemes in place that support the circular economy approach.

= Circular design =

A key element to making the circular economy work is circular design. The [https://www.circulardesignguide.com/ Circular Design Guide] offers advice and an abundance of free resources to encourage discussions around the concept. Architects often face difficulties in persuading clients to go with an option that is not the norm. The Circular Design Guide offers advice on how to have this conversation with a client and educate them on why circular design is so important.

Guidance is offered on material choice including [https://www.circulardesignguide.com/post/journey-mapping ‘materials journey mapping’]. Created in partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, it encourages those involved to think about the parts and materials, processing, production, sourcing, and other product ‘ingredients.’

= Wood CO2ts less =

Wood befits the ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’ movement. It also helps to reduce CO2 in the atmosphere thus contributing to the slowing down of climate change as wood captures and stores carbon. It is a cost-free solution to carbon capture. Wood can also be used to offset sectors of the economy that cannot become carbon neutral, so it is beneficial to use this natural and renewable material instead of other materials.

Studies have shown wood products can improve emotional state, reduce blood pressure, heart rate and stress and improve sleep patterns. [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/?filterUpdate=Update&t%5B%5D=10 Wood interiors] also add warmth and character. Therefore, it is often used in biophilic design, a way of bringing the outdoors in.

To find out more about wood and the circular economy including biobased materials, [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2019/03/31/circular-building-materials-bio-cycle-versus-techno-cycle/ read this interview] we did last year with sustainability expert Pablo van der Lugt.

Find out more about the Wood CO2ts less campaign [https://woodforgood.com/co2 here].

= Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki =

* 5 things leaders can do to create a truly circular economy.
* A social, circular economy.
* BREEAM Construction waste management.
* Building Revolutions - review.
* Circular economy - transforming the worlds number one consumer of raw materials.
* Construction waste.
* Cradle to cradle product registry system.
* Deconstruction.
* Design for deconstruction.
* End of life potential.
* Green supply chain management.
* Life cycle.
* Mean lean green.
* Recyclable construction materials.
* Recycling.
* Reduce, reuse, recycle.
* Renewable energy.
* Sustainable materials.
* Sustainability.
* Waste management plan.

= External references =

* [https://www.bwf.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/feasibility-study-british-woodworking-federation.pdf British Woodworking Federation feasibility study]
* [https://www.c2ccertified.org/products/scorecard/straw-panels C2C Certified]
* [https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/ad6e59_ba1e4d16c64f44fa94fbd8708eae8e34.pdf Circularity Gap Report for 2019],
* [https://www.c2ccertified.org/ Cradle to Cradle Certified] (C2C Certified)
* [https://www.cradletocradlemarketplace.com/page/built-environment/ Cradle to Cradle Marketplace]
* [https://www.ukgbc.org/ukgbc-work/circular-economy/ Green Building Council (UKGBC) practical guidance]
* [https://asbp.org.uk/awards-shortlist/old-holloway Product Innovation Award].

--[[User:Wood_for_Good|Wood for Good]]

[[Category:Organisations]] [[Category:DCN_Organisation]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Design]] [[Category:Products_/_components]] [[Category:DCN_Product_Knowledge]]

Timber and healthy interiors

2020-05-29T10:33:08Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "The concept of ‘home’ has changed dramatically in the last few months as it has shifted from a place of sanctuary to a place of confinement. The pandemic has altered the dyn..."

The concept of ‘home’ has changed dramatically in the last few months as it has shifted from a place of sanctuary to a place of confinement.

The pandemic has altered the dynamics for everyone, but the situation is amplified for anyone living in high-density, high-rise accommodation. So, what can be done post-Coronavirus to make our homes healthier and more comfortable spaces to live and work? Even if that is several floors up in a tower block.

== Bringing the outdoors in ==

Having a garden area or outdoor space where social distancing is possible is harder to come by in built up areas. Therefore, occupants of high-density homes with no external access need design measures that will enhance their indoor environment.

As our living environment has been increasingly urbanised, we have become less connected with the natural world. This is where biophilic design can make a dramatic difference. Biophilia is the link between humans and nature and is about bringing natural elements indoors.

According to environmental consultants [https://www.terrapinbrightgreen.com/report/14-patterns/ Terrapin Bright Green], biophilic design ‘can reduce stress, enhance creativity and clarity of thought, improve our wellbeing and expedite healing.’

To help translate this into principles for design, it has established 14 patterns of biophilic design including: visual and non-visual connections with nature and natural systems, sensory stimuli, thermal and airflow variability, water, light, biomorphic forms and patterns, complexity and order and our material connection with nature.

For each of the 14 patterns, Terrapin Bright Green has referenced whether it has an impact on stress reduction, cognitive performance or emotion, mood and preference. For some patterns they cover all three functions.

Within the built environment, humans are less likely to have access to nature in its most natural state, instead simulated or constructed alternatives can be brought into the home. One example of these alternatives is water. This is an element of biophilic design that comes under many of the patterns. Water can have a relaxing effect on humans, both visually and auditorily. However, water walls are a great concept but impractical for most homes, so aquariums and smaller indoor water features are recommended.

Images depicting nature can help reduce blood pressure and the heart rate, particularly if they feature an aquatic theme. Natural and especially green colours can have a positive effect on cognitive performance and oil diffusers releasing plant oils can, depending on the desired effect, be calming or energising. By using plants, wallpaper and textured materials, there are numerous ways that a home can feel more in touch with nature.

== Wood is good ==

One of the identified patterns of biophilic design is our material connection with nature. Several studies have linked the positive effect of natural materials such as wood on humans and their health and wellbeing.

[https://www.thinkwood.com/performance/acoustics-and-thermal Wood has many attributes] such as helping to improve air quality and thermal comfort and it can also be an acoustic buffer. These are important points to consider for any home, but even more so for homes with no outdoor access.

For apartments relying solely on windows for air flow, it is vital that air quality is improved where possible. Wood products and air purifying plants not only improve air quality but can also improve mood, are aesthetically pleasing and appear to reduce stress levels.

Being able to hear neighbours from within the home can be disturbing and stressful and is more commonplace in flats. Being subjected to noise from neighbours above, to the side and below can have a negative impact on a person’s wellbeing.

Acoustics are recognised as one of the environmental criteria within biophilic design and paying attention to acoustic design can help create a more comfortable living space. Wood acts as an insulator and so not only muffles sound but can also improve the thermal comfort of the property. Some plants also absorb noise so can help reduce unwanted sounds inside the property. It may be another reason for bringing in a water feature too.

== Flexible spaces ==

Most homes were not equipped to deal with one, two or potentially more people in the household suddenly needing to perform their job from home. Makeshift offices across the country may have seemed a novelty in the beginning but as the pandemic stretches on and the return to the office is pushed back, the future of home working may be more permanent than first thought.

Reports show that not only will the return to ‘regular’ working be slow, but it may not return to normal at all. Global companies such as Twitter have introduced new work-from-home policies so employees can choose never to return to the office. This likely trend means our homes will need to be more adaptable spaces as the kitchen table/office will not suffice for long.

Engineered timber such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) has enabled the building of some highly flexible spaces, such as the [https://gg-loop.com/freebooter/ Freebooter] apartments in Amsterdam. Built to biophilic design principles and with a hybrid of materials, wood features heavily. The architect, GG-Loop, has set a standard in how homes of the future should look and perform for our ever-changing global population.

== Creating the perfect blend for home and work ==

Though it is costly and at times impossible to change the structure of a building, it is possible to create interiors that will be healthier and more practical for the occupant. Biophilic design can be implemented at low cost and often these changes can be made through standard products such as doors, floors, window frames, staircases and kitchens. Natural materials should be chosen to create a healthier indoor environment.

In addition, designers and developers of new housing schemes have a responsibility to create the spaces needed for a changing workplace, enabling people to live in a home that meets all their needs, for both work and play.

Wood and carbon

2020-04-16T11:44:59Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Net-zero, carbon free, embodied carbon and offsetting carbon: each concept is a step in the right direction to tackle the climate emergency, but the terminology needs demystifyin..."

Net-zero, carbon free, embodied carbon and offsetting carbon: each concept is a step in the right direction to tackle the climate emergency, but the terminology needs demystifying.

The article below explores each concept, how it is being implemented and what this means for the built environment.

== Net-zero ==

Since the UK government’s announcement last year to target net-zero by 2050, the phrase 'net-zero' has become the most well-known term when it comes to reducing the impact of climate change.

[http://www.lse.ac.uk/GranthamInstitute/news/what-is-net-zero/ Net-zero is the balance between the emissions that are produced] and the emissions that are removed from the atmosphere. Emissions are removed by offsetting carbon.

Net-zero is the goal, outlined below are the ways to make it happen.

== Carbon neutral = Offsetting carbon = Carbon free = Zero carbon ==

The journey to achieving net-zero means knowing how to offset emissions. According to the [https://www.carbontrust.com/what-we-do/assurance-and-certification/carbon-neutral-certification Carbon Trust], carbon neutrality is achieved when the emissions produced are offset by carbon credits or natural carbon sinks.

Carbon credits are permits and work as part of a ‘cap and trade’ programme. Companies that pollute are given a limit, in credits, that they can pollute up to. Any unused credits can be sold to another company that is exceeding its limit. The aim is for companies that pollute to reduce their emissions and over time their limits for pollution are reduced.

Natural carbon sinks are ecosystems such as the ocean or forests. They absorb and store around [https://www.livescience.com/32354-what-is-a-carbon-sink.html half of the carbon dioxide (CO2) produced by human activity]. However, these ecosystems are under threat due to increased emissions and deforestation.

Political awareness of the need to increase tree cover as a viable solution to reduce CO2 emissions has grown recently. This awareness also places responsibility on the timber industry and wider construction industry to ensure timber is sustainably sourced, particularly tropical timber.

To determine if a building or building product is carbon neutral, there is a standard to prove that it genuinely offsets carbon emissions and is not ‘greenwashing’. [https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/PAS-2060-Carbon-Neutrality/ PAS 2060] can be used to prove carbon neutrality for buildings, product lines, manufacturing and more.

== Carbon positive = Carbon negative ==

Confusingly, carbon positive and carbon negative initiatives both seek the same outcome: to remove more carbon from the world than they add. This is the next step after net-zero.

== Sequestered carbon = Carbon capture ==

To sequester carbon is to capture CO2 from the Earth’s atmosphere and store it. This can be done in a natural or manufactured way. Trees naturally absorb and capture CO2, acting as a natural store. Consequently, forests and woodland are considered to be the most efficient natural carbon sinks.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a [https://www.hse.gov.uk/carboncapture/about-carbon.htm new technology] to remove CO2 emissions from fossil fuel power stations and industrial processes that use or produce coal and gas. The CO2 can be captured in three different ways and in the UK, it is stored offshore.

Carbon can be captured or sequestered in buildings and building products made from wood.

== Embodied carbon ==

Embodied carbon is defined by the UK Green Building Council as [https://www.ukgbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/UK-GBC-EC-Developing-Client-Brief.pdf ‘the total greenhouse gas emissions generated to produce a built asset’]. This means knowing how much CO2 is emitted from extraction, processing and manufacturing, transportation and assembly of every building product used. It extends to the lifecycle of each product so also considers end of life.

== Operational carbon ==

Operational carbon is often measured alongside embodied carbon. It is the collective [https://www.istructe.org/resources/guidance/carbon-embodied-operational/ CO2 emissions produced in order for a building to run], from the energy and ventilation systems through to IT equipment.

== Taking action ==

The UK built environment currently contributes around 40% of the country’s total carbon emissions. To reach the 2050 net-zero goal, new homes need to be built to offset carbon. Even with the most natural building materials, CO2 will be released before and during the construction process. By estimating embodied and operational carbon, designers can ensure this is offset through the materials, products and systems used.

== Going beyond zero ==

The [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/balehaus BaleHaus system] uses prefabricated straw bale panels, ModCell, and structural timber frame elements. This system works to PassivHaus principles and is made from locally available materials that are designed to be dismantled, re-used and recycled at the end of a typical 75+ year life.

It also has triple glazing, a biomass boiler and energy efficient electrical fittings and appliances. The careful design and specification of the BaleHaus reduces carbon emissions by almost 50% each year. It goes beyond zero carbon as it banks 22 tonnes of CO2, making it carbon positive (or negative) and a carbon capture.

== From old to new ==

Older properties can be improved too. To reduce the built environment’s impact on the planet, the aim should be to reduce the number of new buildings, reuse as many buildings, materials and products as possible and recycle responsibly if there is no other option.

An example of this was the sensitive retrofit of a home on [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/walters-way Walter’s Way], designed by architect Walter Segal. The timber-framed home had its windows replaced, the roof rebuilt and full insulation was installed including the roof. Solar PV panels were added alongside a new solar water heating system, passive ventilation and mechanical ventilation heat recovery, water-saving devices and low energy appliances and lighting.

Where possible, natural materials such as cellulose and wood fibre insulation were used. The result of the refurb was a reduction of 73% in carbon emissions.

== Zero = Hero ==

The built environment has the tools and the knowledge to refurbish and create homes, offices, schools, hospitals and many other buildings that remove rather than contribute carbon emissions. It is a cultural and educational shift, but it is possible to make beautiful and practical buildings that have less of an impact on the planet.

Carbon terminology

2020-04-08T10:48:27Z

Net-zero, carbon free, embodied carbon and offsetting carbon: each concept is a step in the right direction to tackle the climate emergency, but the terminology needs demystifying.

This carbon-jargon busting feature explores each concept, how it is being implemented and what this means for the built environment.

= Net-zero =

Since the UK government’s announcement last year to target net-zero by 2050, the phrase 'net-zero' has become the most well-known term when it comes to reducing the impact of climate change.

[http://www.lse.ac.uk/GranthamInstitute/news/what-is-net-zero/ Net-zero is the balance between the emissions that are produced] and the emissions that are removed from the atmosphere. Emissions are removed by offsetting carbon.

Net-zero is the goal, outlined below are the ways to make it happen.

= Carbon neutral = Offsetting carbon = Carbon free = Zero carbon =

The journey to achieving net-zero means knowing how to offset emissions. According to the [https://www.carbontrust.com/what-we-do/assurance-and-certification/carbon-neutral-certification Carbon Trust], carbon neutrality is achieved when the emissions produced are offset by carbon credits or natural carbon sinks.

Carbon credits are permits and work as part of a ‘cap and trade’ programme. Companies that pollute are given a limit, in credits, that they can pollute up to. Any unused credits can be sold to another company that is exceeding its limit. The aim is for companies that pollute to reduce their emissions and over time their limits for pollution are reduced.

Natural carbon sinks are ecosystems such as the ocean or forests. They absorb and store around [https://www.livescience.com/32354-what-is-a-carbon-sink.html half of the carbon dioxide (CO2) produced by human activity]. However, these ecosystems are under threat due to increased emissions and deforestation.

Political awareness of the need to increase tree cover as a viable solution to reduce CO2 emissions has grown recently. This awareness also places responsibility on the timber industry and wider construction industry to ensure timber is sustainably sourced, particularly tropical timber.

To determine if a building or building product is carbon neutral, there is a standard to prove that it genuinely offsets carbon emissions and is not ‘greenwashing’. [https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/PAS-2060-Carbon-Neutrality/ PAS 2060] can be used to prove carbon neutrality for buildings, product lines, manufacturing and more.

= Carbon positive = Carbon negative =

Confusingly, carbon positive and carbon negative initiatives both seek the same outcome: to remove more carbon from the world than they add. This is the next step after net-zero.

= Sequestered carbon = Carbon capture =

To sequester carbon is to capture CO2 from the Earth’s atmosphere and store it. This can be done in a natural or manufactured way. Trees naturally absorb and capture CO2, acting as a natural store. Consequently, forests and woodland are considered to be the most efficient natural carbon sinks.

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a [https://www.hse.gov.uk/carboncapture/about-carbon.htm new technology] to remove CO2 emissions from fossil fuel power stations and industrial processes that use or produce coal and gas. The CO2 can be captured in three different ways and in the UK, it is stored offshore.

Carbon can be captured or sequestered in buildings and building products made from wood.

= Embodied carbon =

Embodied carbon is defined by the UK Green Building Council as [https://www.ukgbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/UK-GBC-EC-Developing-Client-Brief.pdf ‘the total greenhouse gas emissions generated to produce a built asset’]. This means knowing how much CO2 is emitted from extraction, processing and manufacturing, transportation and assembly of every building product used. It extends to the lifecycle of each product so also considers end of life.

= Operational carbon =

Operational carbon is often measured alongside embodied carbon. It is the collective [https://www.istructe.org/resources/guidance/carbon-embodied-operational/ CO2 emissions produced in order for a building to run], from the energy and ventilation systems through to IT equipment.

= Taking action =

The UK built environment currently contributes around 40% of the country’s total carbon emissions. To reach the 2050 net-zero goal, new homes need to be built to offset carbon. Even with the most natural building materials, CO2 will be released before and during the construction process. By estimating embodied and operational carbon, designers can ensure this is offset through the materials, products and systems used.

= Going beyond zero =

The [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/balehaus BaleHaus system] uses prefabricated straw bale panels, ModCell, and structural timber frame elements. This system works to PassivHaus principles and is made from locally available materials that are designed to be dismantled, re-used and recycled at the end of a typical 75+ year life.

It also has triple glazing, a biomass boiler and energy efficient electrical fittings and appliances. The careful design and specification of the BaleHaus reduces carbon emissions by almost 50% each year. It goes beyond zero carbon as it banks 22 tonnes of CO2, making it carbon positive (or negative) and a carbon capture.

= From old to new =

Older properties can be improved too. To reduce the built environment’s impact on the planet, the aim should be to reduce the number of new buildings, reuse as many buildings, materials and products as possible and recycle responsibly if there is no other option.

An example of this was the sensitive retrofit of a home on [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/walters-way Walter’s Way], designed by architect Walter Segal. The timber framed home had its windows replaced, the roof rebuilt and full insulation was installed including the roof. Solar PV panels were added alongside a new solar water heating system, passive ventilation and mechanical ventilation heat recovery, water saving devices and low energy appliances and lighting.

Where possible, natural materials such as cellulose and wood fibre insulation were used. The result of the refurb was a reduction of 73% in carbon emissions.

= Zero = Hero =

The built environment has the tools and the knowledge to refurbish and create homes, offices, schools, hospitals and many other buildings that remove rather than contribute to carbon emissions. It is a cultural and educational shift, but it is possible to make beautiful and practical buildings that have less of an impact on the planet.

Wood and building performance

2020-02-25T15:40:09Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Against the backdrop of a chronic lack of high-quality, affordable housing, coupled with the unprecedented challenges of the climate emergency, delivering record numbers of well-..."

Against the backdrop of a chronic lack of high-quality, affordable housing, coupled with the unprecedented challenges of the climate emergency, delivering record numbers of well-designed, better performing homes has become an urgent priority.

Despite successive governments pledging to make housing a priority, the National Housing Federation estimates that 8.4 million people in England—more than 15% of the population—are living in unaffordable, insecure or unsuitable homes.

The housing crisis not only reflects the lack of social and affordable housing in the UK, it is also a crisis of quality: old housing stock, badly planned refurbishments and low-quality new homes are contributing to the problem. Unhealthy buildings with poor ventilation are adding to the increase in asthma, while the rising costs of heating our poorly insulated homes is leading to fuel poverty.

Meanwhile, the climate crisis is upon us. According to the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) we have just over a decade to limit global warming to a maximum of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels to avoid climate breakdown.

Against this backdrop of a chronic lack of high-quality, affordable housing, coupled with the unprecedented challenges of the climate emergency, delivering record numbers of well-designed, better performing homes has become an urgent priority.

== The Future Homes Standard ==

The Government has committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gases by 2050. This means that emissions from homes, transport, farming and industry must be completely avoided or where that is not possible, offset by planting trees. Around 15% of all carbon emissions in the UK come from housing. The UK Climate Change Committee has said that all existing and new UK homes must be low carbon, low-energy and resilient to climate change.

To help meet these aspirations, the UK Government recently committed to a new ‘future homes standard’, which states that from 2025 at the latest, no new homes will be connected to the gas grid. Instead they should:

* be heated through low-carbon sources such as air source heat pumps
* have ultra-high levels of energy efficiency alongside appropriate ventilation
* where possible, be timber framed.

Together with the Government’s Industrial Strategy Clean Growth Grand Challenge mission to halve energy use in all new builds by 2030, this will set a path towards decarbonisation of all new homes and will support the scaling up of low carbon technologies to improve energy efficiency in existing homes.

== A fabric first approach ==

To meet the aims outlined above, all new homes should be built to very high fabric standards. Adopting a fabric first approach to building design means considering the impact of the performance of every component and material that makes up the building itself. This can help to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, lower operational costs and reduce the need for maintenance. It is expected that the average future home will be responsible for 75-80% less carbon emissions than one built to current standards.

According to George Martin of the Building Performance Network, the role of building fabric and the choice of materials is critical to the [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2018/09/11/interview-with-george-martin/ performance of the home]. Materials have an effect on energy efficiency, indoor air quality, thermal comfort and moisture control. He recommends urgent change to the way homes are procured and specified.

Adopting a fabric first approach means opting to build with sustainable, renewable materials such as timber, choosing natural insulation materials such as [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2018/01/22/can-wood-fibre-make-a-home-healthier/ wood fibre], maximising air-tightness and optimising natural ventilation.

== Whole life carbon ==

A fabric first approach also considers the whole life carbon emissions of the building. These are directly related to the type and quantity of resources used to create, maintain and use a building. Whole life carbon assessments consider resource efficiency and carbon emissions and with this in mind the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has recently produced a [https://www.architecture.com/knowledge-and-resources/resources-landing-page/whole-life-carbon-assessment-for-architects comprehensive guide] for architects providing advice and guidance through the RIBA work stages. Whole life carbon is expected to become more important as a way of saving resources and enabling residents to lead lower carbon lives.

In his new book [https://www.architecture.com/riba-books/books/sustainability/product/designed-to-perform-an-illustrated-guide-to-providing-energy-efficient-homes.html Designed to Perform: An Illustrated Guide to Providing Energy Efficient Homes], Tom Dollard provides practical design guidance on how to deliver better energy performance in all types of new build homes.

== Which products to use ==

A fabric first approach lends itself well to timber frame buildings. In particular, closed timber panels, which are manufactured offsite and leave the factory ready-insulated, have intrinsically high levels of thermal performance.

Options for rendering or cladding a property built with timber panels include preserved timber cladding, or other natural materials such as lime render. Any timber products should come from [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2019/11/21/specifying-zero-carbon-materials-from-sustainable-sources/ sustainably-managed sources].

By ensuring high levels of insulation and air-tightness in the building’s design and combining that with ground source or air source mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems, there is less reliance on generating electricity. However, if extra energy is required, sustainable methods such as photovoltaic panels or wind turbines are a good option.

Triple glazed windows reduce the amount of heat lost and placing windows on the south side of a home helps to maximise solar gain and reduces the need for heating. To keep the building cool in the summer, extended eaves or blinds reduce the heat from the high summer sun.

== Building performance evaluation ==

Unfortunately, new buildings often underperform when it comes to energy efficiency in comparison to the expectations defined at the design stage. This is known as the ‘building performance gap’. On average, traditional new-build homes use 60% to 80% more energy for heating than their design target.

Evaluating a building’s performance is essential to ensure that the targets set are in fact met, and as a way of ensuring continual improvement in building methods.

To meet this demand, as part of the [http://woodknowledge.wales/prosiect-cartrefi-o-bren-lleol-home-grown-homes Home-Grown Homes project] in Wales, Cardiff Metropolitan University is testing a range of practical solutions for building performance evaluation (BPE) with the aim of encouraging developers and housing associations to use BPE on all their builds.

Post occupancy evaluation should be incorporated into every project with the results built into the next project brief to ensure continual improvement.

One example of building performance and post occupancy evaluation in action is at [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/ty-rosser-gwyn Ty Newidiadau] in Cardiff. The project features properties built using three different construction methods and aims to assess their performance over time to inform design and material decisions for new affordable and social housing.

== Addressing the gap ==

One approach to help address the building performance gap is Passivhaus, which, according to the Passivhaus Trust, achieves a 75% reduction in space heating requirements, compared to standard practice for UK new builds.

The benefits of Passivhaus performance include:

* improved indoor air quality
* thermal comfort
* self-maintained moisture and humidity levels.

Passivhaus is about airtightness and breathability, so choosing the right insulation material is key. Wood fibre insulation is a good option as the natural fibres help to prevent overheating in summer.

Homes built to Passivhaus standards use heat recovery ventilation systems to heat the incoming fresh air with heat from the outgoing stale air. Due to their design, they stay warm in winter but remain cool in summer. Homes designed to Passivhaus standards often benefit from increased space and daylight, too.

== Design to eliminate overheating ==

While building to Passivhaus standards is one way to prevent poor ventilation and overheating in new homes, there is a raft of design, material and planning considerations which can also help to reduce these problems.

With this in mind, in July 2019, the Good Homes Alliance launched a [https://goodhomes.org.uk/overheating-in-new-homes new tool and guidance] for those involved in the early stages of designing and developing new homes. The tool offers comprehensive guidance and enables the project team to estimate the likelihood of overheating in the future, and suggests ways to mitigate the risk

== The way forward ==

A chronic lack of affordable and social homes is no excuse to house our most vulnerable people in unsuitable bed and breakfast accommodation, badly converted office blocks and poorly designed new builds.

Instead, a fabric first approach to thoughtfully-designed new builds and renovations, using sustainable, locally sourced materials where possible and implementing passive methods of heating and ventilation will result in housing for future generations that we can be proud of. Let’s hope the latest Stirling Prize winner sets a precedent for change.

Wood and sustainable procurement

2020-02-19T16:20:42Z

Wood for Good:

2050, the target date set by Government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero, seems a long way away. But the construction industry’s hefty 40% contribution to the UK’s total carbon footprint means action needs to start now.

There are several ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and timber continues to be top choice as a ‘green’ building material. Its natural ability to lock up carbon makes it a catalyst in the shakeup of how we can build in a more environmentally friendly way.

While wood is a renewable material, when procuring timber, it is critical to make sure it comes from sustainably managed forests.

== How to spot sustainable timber ==

Forest certification programmes, the [https://www.fsc-uk.org/en-uk Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)] and the [https://pefc.org/ Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC)] protect and promote sustainable forest management. Both organisations work with the supply chain and relevant industry bodies to ensure timber imported and exported in the UK is legal and certified.

Certification provides a stamp of approval that a supplier has legally and sustainably sourced the timber. It also protects the environment, economy and people within the area of the forest the timber is sourced from. Neglecting to source timber in this way is illegal.

Verified Legal Compliance schemes (VLCs) work in partnership with timber regulations that require companies sourcing timber to have a due diligence system in place. They ensure all the administrative requirements have been completed, that any applicable and relevant laws and regulations related to forestry have been met and check forest management processes. The predominant VLCs are run by the [http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/business/forestry/verification/legal Rainforest Alliance] (SmartWood) and [http://www.bureauveritas.com/services+sheet/olb-certification_14483 Bureau Veritas] (OLB) and are particularly important in West and Central Africa.

In Southeast Asia, the Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) set up a scheme, the [http://www.mtc.com.my/resources-MalaysianTimberCertificationScheme.php Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme] (MTCS), which is the first of its kind in the region to be endorsed by PEFC.

TRADA operates its own [http://www.exovabmtrada.com/en-gb/certification/supply-chain-certification/forest-products chain of custody scheme] for forest products that aren’t FSC or PEFC certified. It recognises other certification schemes such as MTCC and verification schemes such as Bureau Veritas’ OLB, the [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/flegt Forest Law Enforcement, Government and Trade] (FLEGT), and the Rainforest Alliance VLC.

These schemes determine whether the product complies with policies such as the [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-timber-regulation-guidance-for-business-and-industry EU Timber Regulation] (EUTR) proving they are legal and progressing towards sustainability.

In Europe, the EUTR prohibits the placing of illegally harvested timber on the European market. This means there must be a record of the supplier, the product’s timber species, where it comes from, the amount bought, and a risk assessment on the product. The FLEGT action plan aims to reduce illegal logging by strengthening sustainable and legal forest management, improving governance and promoting trade in legally produced timber.

There are also [http://www.euflegt.efi.int/vpa Voluntary Partnership Agreements] (VPA), which are legally binding trade agreements between the European Union and a timber-producing country outside the EU to ensure timber products come from a legal source.

Other initiatives include the United Nations programme for [http://redd.unfccc.int/ Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation] (REDD+) and the [https://forestlegality.org/ Forest Legality Initiative] (FLI), a project run by the World Resources Institute.

== Challenges: what if it isn’t certified? ==

Areas such as the Congo Basin in Africa and Southeast Asia count among the largest areas of biodiversity in the world. At the same time, some of the most vulnerable rural communities live here whose livelihoods depend on the forest.

Identifying sustainable sources from these regions can be challenging. FSC records a low number of chain of custody certificates and certified forest areas. According to PEFC, only 11% of the world’s forests are certified.

This places pressure on the supply chain to ensure the timber has not been sourced in a way that negatively impacts the local area. Instead of avoiding supply of timber from these areas, some companies go an extra-long way to ensure positive impact on local communities:

[https://www.interholco.com/en/ Interholco] supplies wood from Africa but has taken strides to ensure the people and the forests are not negatively affected by the trading of timber. On the contrary: Its African base in the Republic of Congo provides income for more than 1,000 employees and more than 16,000 local and indigenous people living in the area. Everyone in the area has access to jobs and training, medical care, pensions and many of the other things we take for granted in the UK.

Interholco implements a forest management plan, carries out inventories, and studies the local wildlife among other things. In October this year, Inteholco’s conservation of several thousand gorillas earned them a [https://mailchi.mp/interholco/your-1-stop-connection-to-sustainable-hardwood-made-in-africa-2012481?e=ccde7186e5 German Nature Film Award]. The project was filmed by Franco-German TV channel, ARTE, and showed the positive long-term economic impact for local people.

== Timber procurement: practical steps ==

The main consideration when procuring timber is to guarantee it has been sustainably sourced. Check it has been verified and use due diligence systems. There is a wealth of information available from all of the initiatives mentioned in this newsletter and also from timber trade bodies such as [https://www.trada.co.uk/ TRADA] and the [https://ttf.co.uk/ Timber Trade Federation].

To keep up to date with the challenges facing global forestry, [https://www.globalforestwatch.org/#slides/2 Global Forest Watch] provides a free resource that allows users to explore the latest data and the impact on different areas around the world.

Both, FSC and PEFC provide delivery checklists. These support in checking deliveries of PEFC- or FSC-certified, responsibly sourced materials with a handy reference guide.

PEFC's guide is inclusive of all certificates - PEFC, FSC, GiB Chain of Custody - and can be downloaded [https://www.pefc.co.uk/system/resources/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDgvMjkvNW9ucnh5aHBuel9UaW1iZXJfRGVsX2NoZWNrbGlzdF9wb3N0ZXIucGRmIl1d/Timber%20Del%20checklist%20poster.pdf here]. PEFC also offer an inclusive CPD that talks you through benefits of all certification schemes and what to watch out for. More information can be accessed [https://www.pefc.co.uk/markets-for-pefc/construction-building-design here].

Wood and sustainable procurement

2020-02-19T16:20:04Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "2050, the target date set by Government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero, seems a long way away. But the construction industry’s hefty 40% contribution to the UK’s ..."

2050, the target date set by Government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero, seems a long way away. But the construction industry’s hefty 40% contribution to the UK’s total carbon footprint means action needs to start now.

There are several ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and timber continues to be top choice as a ‘green’ building material. Its natural ability to lock up carbon makes it a catalyst in the shakeup of how we can build in a more environmentally friendly way.

While wood is a renewable material, when procuring timber, it is critical to make sure it comes from sustainably managed forests.

== How to spot sustainable timber ==

Forest certification programmes, the [https://www.fsc-uk.org/en-uk Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)] and the [https://pefc.org/ Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC)] protect and promote sustainable forest management. Both organisations work with the supply chain and relevant industry bodies to ensure timber imported and exported in the UK is legal and certified.

Certification provides a stamp of approval that a supplier has legally and sustainably sourced the timber. It also protects the environment, economy and people within the area of the forest the timber is sourced from. Neglecting to source timber in this way is illegal.

Verified Legal Compliance schemes (VLCs) work in partnership with timber regulations that require companies sourcing timber to have a due diligence system in place. They ensure all the administrative requirements have been completed, that any applicable and relevant laws and regulations related to forestry have been met and check forest management processes. The predominant VLCs are run by the [http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/business/forestry/verification/legal Rainforest Alliance] (SmartWood) and [http://www.bureauveritas.com/services+sheet/olb-certification_14483 Bureau Veritas] (OLB) and are particularly important in West and Central Africa.

In Southeast Asia, the Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) set up a scheme, the [http://www.mtc.com.my/resources-MalaysianTimberCertificationScheme.php Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme] (MTCS), which is the first of its kind in the region to be endorsed by PEFC.

TRADA operates its own [http://www.exovabmtrada.com/en-gb/certification/supply-chain-certification/forest-products chain of custody scheme] for forest products that aren’t FSC or PEFC certified. It recognises other certification schemes such as MTCC and verification schemes such as Bureau Veritas’ OLB, the [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/flegt Forest Law Enforcement, Government and Trade] (FLEGT), and the Rainforest Alliance VLC.

These schemes determine whether the product complies with policies such as the [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-timber-regulation-guidance-for-business-and-industry EU Timber Regulation] (EUTR) proving they are legal and progressing towards sustainability.

In Europe, the EUTR prohibits the placing of illegally harvested timber on the European market. This means there must be a record of the supplier, the product’s timber species, where it comes from, the amount bought, and a risk assessment on the product. The FLEGT action plan aims to reduce illegal logging by strengthening sustainable and legal forest management, improving governance and promoting trade in legally produced timber.

There are also [http://www.euflegt.efi.int/vpa Voluntary Partnership Agreements] (VPA), which are legally binding trade agreements between the European Union and a timber-producing country outside the EU to ensure timber products come from a legal source.

Other initiatives include the United Nations programme for [http://redd.unfccc.int/ Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation] (REDD+) and the [https://forestlegality.org/ Forest Legality Initiative] (FLI), a project run by the World Resources Institute.

== Challenges: what if it isn’t certified? ==

Areas such as the Congo Basin in Africa and Southeast Asia count among the largest areas of biodiversity in the world. At the same time, some of the most vulnerable rural communities live here whose livelihoods depend on the forest.

Identifying sustainable sources from these regions can be challenging. FSC records a low number of chain of custody certificates and certified forest areas. According to PEFC, only 11% of the world’s forests are certified.

This places pressure on the supply chain to ensure the timber has not been sourced in a way that negatively impacts the local area. Instead of avoiding supply of timber from these areas, some companies go an extra-long way to ensure positive impact on local communities:

[https://www.interholco.com/en/ Interholco] supplies wood from Africa but has taken strides to ensure the people and the forests are not negatively affected by the trading of timber. On the contrary: Its African base in the Republic of Congo provides income for more than 1,000 employees and more than 16,000 local and indigenous people living in the area. Everyone in the area has access to jobs and training, medical care, pensions and many of the other things we take for granted in the UK.

Interholco implements a forest management plan, carries out inventories, and studies the local wildlife among other things. In October this year, Inteholco’s conservation of several thousand gorillas earned them a [https://mailchi.mp/interholco/your-1-stop-connection-to-sustainable-hardwood-made-in-africa-2012481?e=ccde7186e5 German Nature Film Award]. The project was filmed by Franco-German TV channel, ARTE, and showed the positive long-term economic impact for local people.

== Timber procurement: practical steps ==

The main consideration when procuring timber is to guarantee it has been sustainably sourced. Check it has been verified and use due diligence systems. There is a wealth of information available from all of the initiatives mentioned in this newsletter and also from timber trade bodies such as [https://www.trada.co.uk/ TRADA] and the [https://ttf.co.uk/ Timber Trade Federation].

To keep up to date with the challenges facing global forestry, [https://www.globalforestwatch.org/#slides/2 Global Forest Watch] provides a free resource that allows users to explore the latest data and the impact on different areas around the world.

Both, FSC and PEFC provide delivery checklists. These support in checking deliveries of PEFC- or FSC-certified, responsibly sourced materials with a handy reference guide. The FSC pocket-sized guide is currently available free of charge to Wood for Good supporters in the UK. Order your copies today in packs of 5, 10 or more by completing the form at [https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/woodforgood https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/woodforgood].

PEFC's guide is inclusive of all certificates - PEFC, FSC, GiB Chain of Custody - and can be downloaded [https://www.pefc.co.uk/system/resources/W1siZiIsIjIwMTkvMDgvMjkvNW9ucnh5aHBuel9UaW1iZXJfRGVsX2NoZWNrbGlzdF9wb3N0ZXIucGRmIl1d/Timber%20Del%20checklist%20poster.pdf here]. PEFC also offer an inclusive CPD that talks you through benefits of all certification schemes and what to watch out for. More information can be accessed [https://www.pefc.co.uk/markets-for-pefc/construction-building-design here].

Wood and roof design

2019-08-23T10:19:13Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Roofs are a fundamental structural element, yet it’s rarely the roof that we marvel at when admiring a building’s design. Beyond the traditional pitched roof a variation of s..."

Roofs are a fundamental structural element, yet it’s rarely the roof that we marvel at when admiring a building’s design. Beyond the traditional pitched roof a variation of styles showcase great design, from flat to curved, from shell to hyperbolic. How practical are these variations in a country that gets more than its fair share of rain? What are key considerations when using different types of systems?

== The traditional route ==

For most UK homes, the go-to design is a pitched roof, covered with clay, concrete or slate tiles. The pitched roof adorns homes across the UK for good reason. The sloped design directs rainwater into the guttering, providing effective drainage. This style of roof can be constructed as a cut roof – where timber rafters are cut on site - or a truss roof using trussed rafters (also known as roof trusses). Trussed rafters are an increasingly popular choice as they are precision cut and built offsite and delivered to site when they’re ready to be installed.

As the housebuilding industry continues to face pressure to build more homes, any method that reduces both build time and wastage is a bonus. Though the overall roof design and structure is carried out by the building designer (normally the architect), the trusses are designed by the trussed rafter designer. Trussed rafters are made from timber so like with all building products, they should be stored safely and kept dry to avoid the structure being compromised by excessive exposure to moisture.

The Trussed Rafter Association (TRA) recently published a [https://www.tra.org.uk/technical-advice-downloads/trussed-rafters/ buyers’ guide to trussed rafters] to help those specifying roof trusses to make the best choice for their build. The TRA has also put together a [https://www.tra.org.uk/technical-advice-downloads/spandrel-gable-panels/ spandrel panel guide]. Like trussed rafters, spandrel panels are pre-fabricated. They can be used as a separating wall or as an alternative to traditional masonry gable ends.

In addition to a cut roof or trussed rafters, another way to create a pitched roof is by using roof panels. Also known as structural insulated panels (SIPs) and roof cassettes they are fabricated offsite and in the case of SIPs, are readily insulated. Always check that SIPs are waterproof and are protected from pests. The [https://www.wood-protection.org/ Wood Protection Association] can advise on the best and safest treatments for pest-resistance. Like with trussed rafters, it’s advised that the building designer works closely with the SIPs manufacturer.

== A contemporary alternative ==

Often seen as a cheaper alternative to pitched roofs and favoured for modern architecture, flat roofs first became popular in the UK after the second world war. Traditionally the flat roof is more common in warmer climates, however, with careful design and engineering, flat roofs are a viable option in the UK. Using timber joists across the shortest span of the roof, a waterproof membrane or sheeting can be used to ensure it is watertight.

In the UK, the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) recommends a warm roof. This means applying an insulation layer between the timber and the waterproof covering. If the roof is inverted, the insulation should be placed on top of the waterproof covering.

One way to achieve a flat timber roof with effective insulation is with cross-laminated timber (CLT). An example is the innovative [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/redshank Redshank]. Built to resist flooding, the entire superstructure was built from CLT and clad in cork panels, meaning there is no need for guttering as rain drains off the surface. Using CLT for the roof also means the interior could be left bare as the natural warmth of the wood was preferred over traditional plastering.

== Getting creative ==

Despite their popularity, pitched and flat roofs are not the only options available. Shell roofs, vaulted ceilings, domes and hyperbolic paraboloids are ideal for statement designs.

Often reserved for bespoke projects such as self-build homes and commercial builds, this is where roof design can really shine. The flexibility of engineered timber, such as CLT and glulam, has allowed for eye-catching roof designs at [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/marks-and-spencer/ M&S in Cheshire Oaks], [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/scottish-parliament/ Scottish Parliament] and [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/bishop-edward-king-chapel/ Bishop Edward King Chapel]. Modified timber has also played its part and the entire structure for Sydney-based restaurant, [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/barangaroo-house Barangaroo House], is created from Accoya wood.

One piece of roof architecture that has been totting up the column inches is Europe’s first eco-mosque, [https://woodawards.com/cambridge-central-mosque/ Cambridge Central Mosque]. The roof structure is made from CLT but it’s the intricate glulam vaulted structure that is the talking point. The elaborate design incorporates ‘The Breath of the Compassionate’, a historic Islamic eight-point star pattern, conjuring up the visual representation of breathing in and out.

== Putting nature on top ==

With the pressure on to make the built environment a cleaner and greener place, green roofs are gaining popularity, particularly on commercial buildings. Eco homes have also been adopting this principle for a while and now these sustainability credentials are catching on for housing developments. [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/south-gardens Futurehome], a multi-award-winning 15-home project in Elephant Park in London, used a number of sustainable innovations, including green wildflower roof construction. This includes a roof level garden for residents to grow their own plants and vegetables. In high-density urban areas where space is scarce, using roofs as gardens is an ideal solution.

Green roofs do need a lot of maintenance though. Like with any garden, they need regular upkeep and there’s also the issue of drainage. In response to the upward trend in green roofs, the Green Roof Organisation was established in 2008 and pulled together a [https://livingroofs.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/grocode2014.pdf Green Roof Code of Best Practice for the UK]. In addition to drainage, other design considerations include root resistant materials and the type of vegetation used.

== The sky is the limit ==

While the pitched roof continues to be the design of choice, timber is being embraced to enhance a roof’s design, functionality and sustainability. Engineered timber is literally bending the rules for roofscapes and offsite solutions such as trussed rafters look set to grow as the UK continues in its quest to build more new homes.

Wood and housebuilding in Wales

2019-08-01T10:38:44Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Famed for its steel production, Wales may not seem the likeliest place to build its homes from timber. But the land of the dragons is overhauling its housing policies and timber ..."

Famed for its steel production, Wales may not seem the likeliest place to build its homes from timber. But the land of the dragons is overhauling its housing policies and timber plays a pivotal role.

Wales hasn’t always been the king of steel. 200 years ago, locally-grown larch was the building material of choice and in 2018 the country harvested 1.6 million m3 of timber. While the majority of the harvested logs could be graded for construction, most leave for other markets such as packaging and fencing. According to estimates from [http://woodknowledge.wales/ Woodknowledge Wales], Welsh housing would require up to 200,000m3 of harvested logs to meet housing targets.

=== Putting timber and forestry at the heart of housing policy ===

Like England, Wales is in the midst of a housing crisis. Not enough homes are being built and the homes that are built are often of poor quality. These homes fail to address fuel poverty and lead to poor occupant wellbeing. The latest housing-need estimates in Wales indicate 8,300 new homes must be built each year. In 2017-18 Wales constructed 6,663 new homes of which only 1,876 were affordable.

Wales is also conscious of the climate crisis and that 40% of the UK’s energy related carbon emissions are caused by the built environment.

Subsequently, Wales is keen to bring housing, timber manufacturing and forestry together into a value-creating ecosystem to provide the commercial environment necessary for substantial and sustained investment in the supply chain.

=== Supporting local manufacturers and suppliers ===

In its [https://futuregenerations.wales/ Future Generations Act], Wales has set out a vision to increase environmental, social, cultural and economic wellbeing in the country. On 29 April 2019 Welsh Government declared a climate emergency and subsequently published a [https://futuregenerations.wales/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/10-Point-Plan-to-Fund-Wales-Climate-Emergency-Detailed-Report.pdf 10 Point Plan to Fund Wales’ Climate Emergency]. Consequently, it pushes for a change in the country's policy that will increase forestation (approx. 4000ha per year until 2050) to sequester carbon and increase timber for use in construction. The aim is to create high-performance and affordable new timber homes while supporting local manufacturers and suppliers.

Responding to this, Woodknowledge Wales along with the Welsh woodland organisation, Coed Cymru, Cardiff Metropolitan University and BM TRADA, established the [http://woodknowledge.wales/prosiect-cartrefi-o-bren-lleol-home-grown-homes Home-Grown Homes] project. The project’s purpose is “to create high-performance and affordable new homes from wood in a manner that maximises the opportunity for local manufacturers and home-grown timber.”

As part of the Home-Grown Homes partnership, one local authority, Powys County Council, has adopted a [https://en.powys.gov.uk/article/2645/Housing-Policies Wood Encouragement Policy]. The mission is to “build better, more energy efficient houses, support the local forestry industry and to create jobs. The policy sets out that all new council housing projects will look to use wood as the preferred material for both construction and fit-out purposes.”

The policy is the first of its kind in the UK and the [http://woodknowledge.wales/news/welsh-timber-makes-the-grade-at-llanbedr-site most recent project] is at a site in Llanbedr Dyffryn Clwyd, near Ruthin. The development of 38 new timber frame homes is for housing association, [http://www.clwydalyn.co.uk/ ClwydAlyn Housing], and is being built by low-carbon construction contractor, [http://williams-homes.co.uk/ Williams Homes (Bala) Ltd.]

Powys County Council is responsible for the [http://www.mynewtown.co.uk/viewerfeatures/ArticleId/14690 first affordable social housing development] for 30 years in Newtown. On completion, the three-storey building will contain 26 one-bedroom flats, constructed using Welsh-grown timber for part of the primary structure and also for windows and doors.

An earlier example is Cwrt Rhos Fynach, Rhos on Sea. It was designed by Cru Architects, for Wales and West Housing Association to meet the needs of Conwy Borough Council in North Wales. Housing up to 26 residents in 11 flats, it was constructed and built by Williams Homes (Bala) Ltd using home-grown timber.

=== Modern methods of construction ===

Not satisfied with leading the way with a focus on the development of local timber supply chains, Wales also embraces modern methods of timber construction, such as timber frame, which was used for the project in Llanbedr Dyffryn Clwyd.

The Welsh Government’s £90m [https://gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2019-02/technical-specification.pdf Innovative Housing Programme (IHP)] recognises using timber combined with new and emerging forms of construction helps to deliver much-needed homes faster. Using home-grown timber also means Wales could exceed the objectives it laid out in its report ‘[https://gweddill.gov.wales/docs/desh/publications/190321-prosperity-for-all-a-low-carbon-wales-en.pdf Prosperity for All: A Low Carbon Wales’], released earlier this year, a topic also addressed in a Government-commissioned report by Woodknowledge Wales: ‘[http://woodknowledge.wales/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/zero-carbon-homes-from-wood-2019-English.pdf Zero Carbon Homes].’

As a result, one in three homes in Wales are now built from timber frame and more than 3,250 panelised timber frame homes were manufactured in Wales in 2018. Welsh-manufactured timber frame for social housing grew from 445 units in 2016 to 752 in 2018, an increase of 69%. In addition to timber frame, cross-laminated timber (CLT) is now gaining momentum in homes across Wales.

Timber frame’s popularity is due in part to its ability to meet Passivhaus levels of performance. And this approach to housing hasn’t been missed by Wales’ education sector. [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/burry-port-primary-school Burry Port Community Primary School] in Carmarthenshire pays homage to the wonders that Welsh building materials can bring. Constructed from Welsh-grown larch, Douglas Fir and Sitka spruce, the school was the first Passivhaus school building in Wales. This has created a beautiful and sustainable environment for children to learn and play in.

=== Welsh timber: the perfect choice for high-end construction ===

The range of suitable softwood species in Wales places the country as one of the most favourable environments in Europe, according to foresters. This includes growing conifers such as Sitka spruce, Douglas Fir and other minor species. Welsh grown Sitka spruce is already strength graded to C16 and with new grading technology, mixed strength grades of C16 and C24 would be possible in Wales. Douglas fir and larch grown in Wales can already be visually strength graded to C24. Essentially, Welsh timber has great potential for use in high-end construction.

Recognising the great build quality that can be achieved using Welsh timber, architects and builders are increasingly specifying it for interior and exterior joinery, wood fibre insulation and external timber cladding.

=== Becoming a high-value forest nation ===

Brokering a national dialogue on the forest economy as one of the pillars a future low carbon society, Wales’ annual [http://woodknowledge.wales/events/woodbuild-2019 WoodBUILD] conference 2019 brought together enthused stakeholders including policy makers, members of the forestry industry, suppliers and manufacturers, joiners, academics, housing professionals and industry bodies to discuss the country’s potential of “Becoming a high-value forest nation’..

Discussion was animated and much of the dialogue was between different organisations in the supply chain about the ways they can adapt their systems or products to allow for increased collaboration and new, innovative solutions.

There was also encouraging support from Welsh Government. Sarah Laing Gibbens, Head of Commercial Performance, Homes and Places, Welsh Government said:

“We have 34 developing housing associations and local authorities entering the supply chain. As the guardian of public money, we want to give it to those that are building homes in the right way, and if we have to pay slightly more to get that, we will pay.”

Commenting on a point raised about procurement, she stated: “Procurement is broken. There is an obsession with lowest capital cost but then paying out lots of money for repairs and maintenance further down the track, with no accountability. We are looking at whole life procurement methods which favour high-value over low costs. That’s how we will build our houses.”

=== Leading the timber revolution ===

With such collaboration and goodwill amongst housing associations, local councils and local manufacturers, backed up by policy from the Welsh government, Wales is ideally placed to create the much-needed sustainable and efficient homes it needs for future generations as well as the forests that will provide the building material.

Wood and affordable healthy homes at scale

2019-08-01T10:35:00Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Health and wellbeing is a huge talking point, no matter what industry you work in. For architecture and construction, new building standards and product certification are helping..."

Health and wellbeing is a huge talking point, no matter what industry you work in. For architecture and construction, new building standards and product certification are helping to conquer the commercial sector as the biophilic office proves a return on investment. What we are lacking though are examples of this approach working in the mainstream residential sector. Where there are examples, they’re mostly one-off private homes or in the premium Build to Rent sector. So, the crucial question is: Can we build affordable healthy homes at scale?

=== Meeting the WELL standard ===

Any industry looking to futureproof its sector should look to another for inspiration when it recognises changes need to be made. For those building homes, there are numerous examples of healthy design in commercial spaces that can be transferred to the residential sector.

Recognising the need for healthy homes isn’t a new issue though. The Wellcome Collection recently hosted an exhibition about [https://wellcomecollection.org/exhibitions/Wk4sPSQAACcANwrX Living with Buildings] with a focus on health and architecture. The exhibition showcased examples of 19th century slum housing and the initiatives that followed to improve housing and occupant health. Poor ventilation was a huge issue at the time and continues to be so now.

But our thinking around what makes a healthy building has progressed and Edward Murphy reminds us of the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) definition of health: “a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing.” This is what a building’s design needs to accommodate.

Edward looks to the [https://www.wellcertified.com/ WELL Standard] for guidance. For those unfamiliar with the WELL Standard, it focuses on eight key features: Air, Water, Nourishment, Light, Fitness, Comfort, Mind and Innovation. A building is registered to meet the WELL Standard and assessed on set criteria. If it meets the standard, it is awarded certification from bronze through to platinum level.

Commenting on where the UK is currently in its approach to healthy buildings, Edward said: “Wellness is not just physical, it is mental and psychological. The demand for health preserving buildings is here and it is growing.”

=== Raising the standards ===

One initiative that is attempting to address this issue is the [https://www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/innovation/healthy-new-towns/ Healthy New Towns (HNT)] programme. Established by NHS England, a healthy new town encourages architects and planners to incorporate health and wellbeing into the design of homes and beyond into the community. NHS England, through HNT, is proposing a Quality Mark for homes and neighbourhoods.

Kevin McGeough, who leads on the [https://ebbsfleetdc.org.uk/healthynewtowns/ Ebbsfleet Healthy New Town Programme] which has been piloting the concept, explained that a version has developed with the working title ‘HomesPlus’. At the moment it is a proposed benchmark for quality homes and neighbourhoods which will feed into and help shape the national proposal, but as yet isn’t a reality.

While the discussion around the UK housing crisis has very much been dominated by the quantity of new homes per annum, the government’s recently re-invigorated call for design quality may give rise to new hope for better homes being built in the future.

Better homes mean future proofing homes. Older people are living longer, and homes need to be more flexible and adaptable to better meet the needs of people throughout the life course, particularly downsizers. This was the aim of the University of Sheffield design research project, [https://dwell.group.shef.ac.uk/ DWELL (Designing for Wellbeing in Environments for Later Life)]. Sarah Wigglesworth and the research team developed their own criteria to understand wellbeing in movement, sound, materials and community. Using these principles, the team developed a layout for a multi-generational neighbourhood offering dwellers opportunities for informal social encounters in the rituals of everyday life, contact with the natural world and accessible public services.

Sharing her conclusions from the research project, Sarah said: “We know how to design great housing and what will support longevity, autonomy and wellbeing. We need the housing suppliers to respond with new models of housing to support adequate quality of life.

Sarah also showcased some modular housing prototypes created for the Home Group made from cross-laminated timber (CLT), a building material known for its adaptability, health benefits and carbon sequestering ability. It’s also a quicker way to build, often saving costs on site, has fewer defects and does not rely on skilled workers. Similar benefits can be achieved using prefabricated timber frame or SIPS.

Sarah continued: “We need to design for the long term. This is important for climate change impact, and we need to build community cohesion through attention to the broader issues of planning, location and access to services. Housing should consider everyone’s needs as people, not simply offer a niche product that works as a business model. Our findings around the ageing population show that what works for older people works for everyone.”

=== Making it affordable ===

NHS Healthy Towns and projects like DWELL show healthy homes can be delivered at scale, but how can we achieve greater affordability?

For Miranda Plowden, this is her key concern at South Yorkshire Housing Association. Housing associations want to achieve higher standards, particularly to support their customers’ health and wellbeing. But land prices and low property values make it difficult to make quality housing commercially viable. Providing quality social housing is reliant on grants and these have been cut in recent years, so housing associations struggle to provide the homes they want their clients to live and thrive in.

We know how to build good homes, we just don’t do it. Both Miranda Plowden and Kevin McGeough agreed that offsite construction can play a key role in delivering sustainable homes. Kevin commented “We developed modern method of construction solutions ten years ago, we just never built them. It’s not new, we just need to get started.”

Offsite solutions such as timber frame and CLT have been used for affordable homes at scale. But the health benefits these projects deliver are usually a bonus rather than an intention. Referring to the WELL Standard, they create a healthier living environment through improved indoor air quality and increased thermal comfort (which also reduces energy bills – essential for those needing affordable housing). They also fulfil some of DWELL’s additional features since CLT has low VOCs and is a natural renewable building material, locking in carbon.

So, there are solutions available for this complicated problem, but the speakers feel the only way to create a level playing field is for MPs and built environment professionals to lobby for building regulations that set requirements for healthy homes. This would make healthy homes accessible to all.

Wood and the Circular Economy

2019-08-01T10:30:10Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "The pressure for the built environment to reduce carbon emissions and think long-term sustainability is increasing. This is where the Circular Economy model comes in to play. But..."

The pressure for the built environment to reduce carbon emissions and think long-term sustainability is increasing. This is where the Circular Economy model comes in to play. But what exactly does it entail, how can we achieve it and who needs to be involved?

A circular economy is about approaching the way we design and make things with the intention to recycle, reduce and reuse as many resources as possible. The current business model is to design and make something then throw it away – the linear model. This is neither sustainable nor desirable for the environment. In the construction industry, a circular economy encourages all in the supply chain to choose materials that can achieve a longer life cycle. That means everyone involved from the client to the architect to the product component manufacturers and engineers and contractors are all responsible for making better choices to create a circular building.

A significant part of building circular is to reduce the built environment’s impact on climate change. It’s no secret that the Paris Climate Agreement’s aim is to reduce global warming to 1.5 degrees. And in the most recent [https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/ad6e59_ba1e4d16c64f44fa94fbd8708eae8e34.pdf Circularity Gap Report for 2019], it’s reported that only 9% of the world is circular and “material use and carbon emissions continue on an upward trend.”

== Proof is in the pudding ==

In a bid to get the circular economy spinning in the right direction, certification schemes have been developed, such as [https://www.c2ccertified.org/ Cradle to Cradle Certified] (C2C Certified), which is a framework based on quality assessment and innovation. Products are assessed under five criteria called quality categories: Material Health, Material Reutilisation, Renewable Energy & Carbon Management, Water Stewardship and Social Fairness. The product is then given an overall certification level, a grade, based on how many of the quality categories the product fulfils: Basic, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum.

In 2017, the British Woodworking Federation did a [https://www.bwf.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/feasibility-study-british-woodworking-federation.pdf feasibility study] on cradle to cradle timber windows with C2C Certified. The windows were awarded with gold for Material Reutilisation, Renewable Energy & Carbon Management, Water Stewardship and Social Fairness. Silver was awarded for Material Health, giving an overall Silver grading for timber windows. The only reason for not achieving Gold is that only 95% of the materials used made up wood and preservatives. To get the top mark, 100% of the materials need to be assessed.

At the 2019 ASBP Awards, EcoCocon won the [https://asbp.org.uk/awards-shortlist/old-holloway Product Innovation Award] for its use of straw bale panels in a rural self-build. The [https://www.c2ccertified.org/products/scorecard/straw-panels panels are C2C Certified] with a silver award, and the project was a first for using this particular system in the UK. What impressed judges most was “the combination of extremely high fabric efficiency (Passivhaus certification) achieved through the use of a range of low-impact, natural materials to create a comfortable, healthy environment.”

With the number of C2C Certified products rising, others have been inspired to raise awareness of this offering, cue the creation of [https://www.cradletocradlemarketplace.com/page/built-environment/ Cradle to Cradle Marketplace]. As a natural renewable building material, it’s unsurprising there are already a number of timber C2C Certified products available for the built environment.

=== Building the UK’s Circular Economy ===

The Vision 2040 of the European Forest-Based Sector targets material collection rates of forest-based products at 90% and for their reuse and recycling to account for 70% of all recyclable material. This idea of a circular economy would store carbon and substitute more energy-intensive materials.

In the UK, the Green Building Council UKGBC is working with its members and the wider industry to develop [https://www.ukgbc.org/ukgbc-work/circular-economy/ practical guidance] which will enable organisations working in the built environment to overcome the barriers to implementing circular economy principles.

Wood and the future home

2019-05-31T15:22:48Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Globally, the threat of climate change and the struggle to manage non-recyclable products means sustainability needs to be at the forefront of everybody’s minds. Engineering, i..."

Globally, the threat of climate change and the struggle to manage non-recyclable products means sustainability needs to be at the forefront of everybody’s minds. Engineering, innovation and forward-thinking will each play their part in defining our future housing policies, in turn helping to design for inevitable climate change while also minimising and slowing down its effects.

= It’s a material world =

One way to combat climate change is to choose construction materials that are low-carbon, a carbon store, reusable or recyclable, creating a circular economy. Recent reports show that materials such as cement in concrete contribute up to 8% of total global carbon emissions. Therefore, choosing materials like timber, which sequesters carbon, as a primary construction material helps the fight against carbon emissions. Materials such as concrete and steel will continue to be used but using timber as part of a hybrid structure can help to offset the negative effects.

Vancouver’s [https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/canada/articles/making-terrace-house-a-reality-shigeru-bans-epic-new-design/ Terrace House], designed by Shigeru Ban, is a stunning example of hybrid timber on a grand scale. Due for completion in 2020, the 19-storey apartment block is set to be the tallest hybrid timber structure in the world and will be constructed from locally-sourced wood, concrete and glass. Mass timber was chosen for its sustainable and renewable credentials. Building in a city the developer struggled to find land, a common issue in urban areas, so building up was the logical answer. An intriguing geometric design, the timber used in the tower will be behind a glass exterior, removing the need for treatment over the years.

= Ride the tide =

Flooding is a huge issue for our heavily-populated island and as the ice caps continue to melt, it’s an issue that needs to be addressed, especially for future housing. Mortgage lenders don’t want to lend, developers don’t want to develop, and insurers don’t want to provide insurance. It’s four years since Storm Desmond caused chaos, particularly across Cumbria, Lancashire and the Scottish Borders. More than 5,000 homes were flooded, many of which were left inhabitable. Cue [https://www.floodre.co.uk/about-us/ Flood Re], a re-insurance scheme introduced by the Government which helps households at the highest risk of flooding keep their premiums down.

So, what can be done for building in areas prone to flooding? The Norfolk Broads is notorious for flooding but that didn’t prevent [https://platform5architects.com/project/backwater1 Platform 5 Architects] from building a client’s home there. A stick-built timber frame superstructure was chosen for its lightweight yet high strength-to-weight ratio, its ease and speed of assembly and its environmental benefits. Built on top of a dry deck, the house is raised on piles with galvanised steel ground beams mounted on top to accommodate changing water levels.

For a more unusual approach, the [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/redshank Redshank] is a spaceship-like structure located in the flat coastal landscape near Clacton-on-sea in Essex. Perched on three elliptical steel legs to raise it above the floodwater and painted red as a nod to its namesake of the common redshank bird, it sits on a concrete raft foundation. The superstructure is made from cross-laminated timber (CLT), light enough to be supported by the steel legs and forms the floor, walls and roof, with no need for any interior decoration. It’s clad in non-hazardous and biodegradable cork, adding to the environmental benefits of using a low embodied carbon material such as CLT. Though the design may not be to everybody’s taste, it’s a structure that works.

= The rise of the micro-home =

Lack of land availability is already an issue in the UK and as the population continues to grow, freeing up more land to build on will only become more pressing. With this in mind, many architect and design practices are looking to use infill sites in built-up areas. Bristol-based project [https://www.white-design.com/news/we-can-make/ ‘We Can Make’] identified more than 2,000 ‘micro-sites’ in the area that would suitably fit one to two bedroom dwellings. As part of this initiative, architect practice White Design and straw technology company ModCell developed the [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/tam Tam house], a flexible home built with renewable materials, designed specifically to meet the needs of ‘Generation Rent’.

Other micro-homes include an [https://www.dezeen.com/2017/09/15/urban-cabin-micro-home-library-sam-jacob-mini-living-london-design-festival-2017/ unlikely collaboration] between architect Sam Jacob and car manufacturer MINI, which created the 15-square metre Urban Cabin. Based on a modular concept, the cabin incorporates wood in the exterior and has undergone various adaptations as it’s been taken on a [https://www.archdaily.com/903077/mini-living-urban-cabin-penda world tour] to further explore the design’s possibilities.

= Evolve with timber =

Modular construction has been cited as the saviour of the construction industry as it increases quality, can be made from sustainable materials such as CLT or timber frame, minimises disruption on site and helps to address the UK’s skills shortage. For a country in the midst of a housing crisis, offsite manufacturing can quickly provide the homes we need. The other bonus is the adaptability it provides. As our living situations change, the ability of our homes to grow and evolve with us is a fundamental part of housing design.

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/wudl Wudl] has embraced this concept with its Space design that starts off with basic studio-style spaces that can be extended or have additional storeys added to expand in line with the homeowners' needs. Made from a timber frame, the structure incorporates wood fibre insulation, composite timber-aluminium windows and can be cladded with cedar. This makes it a sustainable option which can achieve zero carbon status.

The challenges that we face in providing housing for our growing population are both complex and varied. Choosing timber can help to reduce and mitigate the impact of climate change, while providing comfortable, adaptable living spaces for generations both now and into the future.

Wood and spiritual places

2019-05-31T15:17:06Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Wood is one of the oldest, natural building materials in the world and has been used for centuries to create spiritual settings such as churches, mosques, temples, synagogues, ji..."

Wood is one of the oldest, natural building materials in the world and has been used for centuries to create spiritual settings such as churches, mosques, temples, synagogues, jinjas and much more.

Design requirements vary for each of these spiritual spaces, often defined by each religion’s rituals. For example, the layout of Catholic churches often replicate a cross; Sikh temples, known as Gurdwaras, require four entrance doors – the Door of Peace, the Door of Livelihood, the Door of Learning and the Door of Grace; mosques must all feature a prayer room large enough to accommodate the entire male population of the local town or city; and Buddhist temples are designed around symbolising the five elements: fire, air, earth, water and wisdom.

In addition to this, they should be safe and comforting spaces for people to pray or meditate in peace. Wood is renowned for its calming qualities, contributing to a healthy indoor environment and its feeling of warmth, making it ideal for spiritual places.

= Deep-rooted use of wood =

The use of wood in spiritual places spans thousands of years. The oldest-known wooden sacred space, believed to be the [https://www.timetravelturtle.com/horyuji-japan-oldest-wooden-building/ oldest wooden building] in the world, is a [http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/H%C5%8Dry%C5%AB-ji five-story pagoda] in the Hry-ji area of Japan. It’s estimated that the tree used for the centre pillar was felled in 594.

Here in the UK, [https://www.explorechurches.org/church/st-andrew-greensted the world’s oldest wooden church], dating back to 1060, sits in a village near Chelmsford, Essex. Greensted Church, though extended and repaired over time, has kept to its timber roots with some 51 timber planks dating from its original construction.

Another timber marvel is possibly the [https://www.japanvisitor.com/japanese-culture/torii-gates largest torii in Japan], which stands at 16-metres and marks the Itsukushima Shrine. A torii is a traditional Japanese gate most commonly made from wood, leading to Shinto shrines. This sacred space, carved from Camphor wood in 1168, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Also on the UNESCO list is the [https://www.weareunesco.com/en/location/hervartov Slovakian Roman Catholic Church of St. Francis of Assisi], believed to have been constructed between 1460 and 1480. The [http://www.visitslovakia.com/church-of-st-francis-of-assisi-in-hervartov red spruce exterior] is still in impressive condition despite being more than 500 years old.

And though once prevalent in Central and Eastern Europe, today no [http://heuright.eu/galleries/wooden-synagogues/ wooden synagogues] remain standing, largely due to their desecration during World War One and World War Two. [http://www.yivoencyclopedia.org/article.aspx/Synagogue_Architecture Crafted joinery] was a key interior feature with elaborately carved bimahs and arks, which contain the Torah scrolls. Joinery like this, often featuring detailed carvings of the Star of St David, has endured and continues to be a highlight in synagogues across the world today.

= Continuing the trend =

Wood is a popular building material for spiritual places and played a big part in the construction of the brand-new [https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/projects/project-reports/cambridge-mosques-outer-beauty-disguises-intricacies-within/10032447.article Cambridge Mosque] in England. Constructed using a glulam timber frame, the timbers are interwoven to create an intricate and elegant ceiling feature. With the addition of CLT roof slabs, the new building has been hailed as the world’s first eco-mosque.

Located in London and completed just last year is the award-winning [https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/buildings/riba-stirling-prize-2018-bushey-cemetery-by-waugh-thistleton/10035462.article Bushey Cemetery], the largest [http://waughthistleton.com/bushey-cemetery/ Jewish cemetery] in the UK. Clinching the RIBA National Award 2018, RIBA East Award 2018 and WAF 2017 Best Completed Religious Building, the design focused around the process of the Jewish funeral, as the faith has no architectural typology. Built using rammed earth and timber, the buildings are low carbon and can be deconstructed when the cemetery needs to be extended in the future. Designed by Waugh Thistleton, the building is intentionally simple and intuitive for those who will come into the building to grieve for their loved ones.

The simplicity of the cemetery is a direct contrast to the [https://www.archdaily.com/577516/light-of-life-church-shinslab-architecture-iisac/ Light of Life Church] in Seoul, South Korea. A hybrid of materials, yet dominated by timber, the design is a nod to industrial architecture with exposed concrete and pipes in the foyer, leading to a timber haven in the chapel. The Siberian red cedar wood was gifted by an entrepreneur and has been crafted into a breath-taking interior. Timbers are strung from the glass ceiling, giant handprints are carved into the wood and plain wooden pews are situated around a circle holding a simple metal cross. The glass exterior could be mistaken for a modern office building, but instead blends into the mountain and houses a chapel for contemplation and prayer.

Another hidden gem is a [http://mydorna.com/en/wooden-mosque-of-nishapur-beautiful-and-tight/ mosque constructed solely from wood] in an Iranian village near Nishapur. Built in 2000 and named the [http://www.islamichistoryandtravel.com/wooden_mosque_chobi_masjid_nishapur_iran_photos.html Wooden Mosque], it is made from walnut and berry tree. Despite the imposing minarets standing 13-metres high, it’s the interior that stuns visitors. Fine joinery adorns the walls, with patterns and verses from the Koran carved into the wood. This is a beautiful place but also practical as it is reported to withstand earthquakes up to eight on the Richter scale.

Completed in 2017, the [http://woodawards.com/portfolio/belarusian-memorial-chapel-2/ North London Belarusian Memorial Chapel was] designed by Spheron Architects as a place of worship and also a memorial for the victims of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Many from the Belarusian community had to leave their country, and the [https://www.dezeen.com/2016/12/17/wooden-belarusian-memorial-chapel-dedicated-chernobyl-nuclear-disaster-spheron-architects-london-england/ beautiful chapel] constructed entirely from Douglas Fir is a tribute to the traditional style of Belarus’ churches.

= Non-religious spiritual places =

Like buildings intended for worship, meditation spaces require an energy-boosting yet calming environment. Meditation has a strong connection with nature so in addition to plants and essential oils, timber can play a key role in creating a tranquil atmosphere.

In Italy, a [https://www.dezeen.com/2016/09/25/mobile-meditation-pavilion-riondolo-giovanni-wegher-stelvio-national-park/ mobile pavilion] built from stacked timber batons was created to provide visitors to Stelvio National Park with an introspective space to take in the beautiful surroundings of the lake and forest. The design is small in size and allows just enough light through the slatted design.

With its unparalleled ability to offer a sense of calm and beauty in religious and spiritual spaces, wood remains a popular and enduring material of choice for reflection and healing as we look ahead to the new year and beyond.

Wood and rural housing

2019-05-31T15:12:31Z

Wood for Good:

Material choice for rural housing stock in Scotland is predominantly timber. Traditionally, Scottish homes were built using stone but this went into decline as more building materials became available. Now, 85% of all new homes in Scotland are built using wood. That's almost three times more than in England and Wales.

There are many reasons for this increase in popularity for building with timber. Firstly, the commitment to building timber houses has been driven by cross-party support from the Scottish Government, which in 2017 pledged to plant 33 million trees by 2025. However, only a third of timber-built homes in Scotland are constructed using Scottish wood, so the aim is to increase the use of homegrown timber. Building with wood also offers a solution for climate change and offsite timber construction methods mean homes can be built more quickly.

= Embracing offsite construction =

Offsite timber construction is growing in Scotland with a market value of around £250 million. This has led to the establishment of co-operative [https://offsitesolutionsscotland.co.uk/about-2/ Offsite Solutions Scotland], which brings together a mix of modular and timber frame manufacturers, sustainably-conscious architects, [https://www.napier.ac.uk/about-us/our-schools/school-of-engineering-and-the-built-environment/institute-for-sustainable-construction/about-us Edinburgh Napier University], the [http://www.cs-ic.org/ Construction Scotland Innovation Centre] and Scottish Enterprise. All have the same goal of using the best in timber offsite solutions to transform homes and communities in Scotland.

Leading the way for timber modular housing in Scotland, and one of the founding companies of Offsite Solutions Scotland, is designer and manufacturer, [http://www.carbondynamic.com/ Carbon Dynamic]. Based north of Inverness, this organisation is no stranger to the harsh weather conditions the country can offer. Carbon Dynamic is committed to creating low energy, warm and beautiful homes created from locally-sourced and sustainable timber.

With many of the company’s projects located in rural and remote spaces such as sand dunes, next to rough sea shores, or nestled into woodlands, the challenge to build on these diverse sites is overcome thanks to Carbon Dynamic’s offsite solutions.

Using timber frame and cross-laminated timber (CLT), the shells of the homes are manufactured in Carbon Dynamic’s factory and transported to site to be erected in half the time a traditional build would take. This method of construction leant itself to a social housing scheme in the Highlands. Working with the Highland Council, [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/kendall-court Carbon Dynamic built eight apartments] that average £20 per month in energy bills and were designed with limited mobility residents in mind.

The company specifies timber such as Douglas fir or larch and all windows are manufactured by a local Scottish manufacturer, [https://www.treecraft-woodwork.com/ Treecraft Woodwork]. While local wood is used where possible, modified wood is also a popular choice due to its durability, a must with the harsh wind and rain conditions that many of the homes are subject to.

= Innovating the traditional =

It’s no secret that Scotland has some extreme weather, especially in the Highlands, so houses need to be made with highly durable materials with impressive thermal properties. Also based in Inverness, fellow member of Offsite Solutions Scotland, design and build company [http://makar.co.uk/ Makar] is well aware of this. Like Carbon Dynamic, Makar is a sustainability-conscious organisation and believes a home should be healthy too. Therefore, its construction material of choice is wood.

Wood used in buildings is known to improve indoor air quality, lower heartbeat rates for inhabitants and there’s a perception of decreased stress levels too.

Makar admits to being inspired by European alpine countries and Makar-built homes are a nod to Scotland’s topography using timber such as Douglas fir, Scots pine, Scottish-grown larch and Sitka spruce. Passionate about timber innovation, Makar has adapted local timber to create solid timber panels and modified timber.

A shining example of Makar’s work, in association with Neil Sutherland Architects, is [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/dunsmore-house Dunsmore House]set in woodlands in the Highlands. A unique project, this semi-detached self-build home was created for two families. The house was built using a platform timber frame structural system, prefabricated at Makar’s factory.

= Building a new ‘forest culture’ =

Scotland is making the most of its abundance of timber and is taking this natural building material into the 21st century. So, what is the secret to Scotland’s success and how can the rest of the UK follow suit?

Using land for forestry in Scotland is popular; even farmers have dedicated some of their land to woodland as it can be more profitable than rearing livestock. This enables Scotland to grow its own building materials and create jobs, a win-win for the local economy. According to the [http://www.confor.org.uk/ Confederation of Forest Industries] Confor, this is fostering a new ‘forest culture’ that could be welcomed anywhere in the UK where land is suitable for growing trees.

Campaigns such as [https://www.growninbritain.org/ Grown in Britain] are helping to support woods and forests and their supply chains in England and Wales. TV programme Countryfile and newspaper The Guardian have dedicated airtime and column inches to raising the profile of forestry in England and Wales, but commitment from the UK Government remains weak. However, the Welsh Government recognises the benefit to the local economy and [http://pstatic.powys.gov.uk/fileadmin/Docs/Housing/Housing_Report.pdf Powys County Council] has pledged that all new council house projects should consider wood first, looking to local suppliers. This is further encouraged by the publication of the Welsh Government’s ‘[http://senedd.assembly.wales/documents/s500003799/Report.pdf Branching Out]’ report, published last year with plans to increase woodland in Wales.

England has shown some promise following the planting of more than 200,000 trees at the [https://www.lowther.co.uk/ Lowther Estate] in Cumbria, one of the largest schemes in the country. Assisted by lobbying from Confor, the forest has also created more jobs. Another success story, also lobbied by Confor, is [http://www.doddingtonnorthforest.com/ Doddington Moor] in Northumberland. This is the largest project in England in 30 years and it is hoped will spur on many more. Since its establishment in 1995, [https://www.nationalforest.org/ The National Forest] in the Midlands has grown and the area has benefited from job creation, increased woodland skills and a lower carbon economy.

While Scotland is leading on innovation in timber housing, with the right levels of support and commitment, these solutions can easily be applied throughout the UK. It’s time for more homegrown homes in England.

Wood and rural housing

2019-05-31T15:12:05Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Material choice for rural housing stock in Scotland is predominantly timber. Traditionally, Scottish homes were built using stone but this went into decline as more building mate..."

Material choice for rural housing stock in Scotland is predominantly timber. Traditionally, Scottish homes were built using stone but this went into decline as more building materials became available. Now, 85% of all new homes in Scotland are built using wood. That's almost three times more than in England and Wales.

There are many reasons for this increase in popularity for building with timber. Firstly, the commitment to building timber houses has been driven by cross-party support from the Scottish Government, which in 2017 pledged to plant 33 million trees by 2025. However, only a third of timber-built homes in Scotland are constructed using Scottish wood, so the aim is to increase the use of homegrown timber. Building with wood also offers a solution for climate change and offsite timber construction methods mean homes can be built more quickly.

= Embracing offsite construction =

Offsite timber construction is growing in Scotland with a market value of around £250 million. This has led to the establishment of co-operative [https://offsitesolutionsscotland.co.uk/about-2/ Offsite Solutions Scotland], which brings together a mix of modular and timber frame manufacturers, sustainably-conscious architects, [https://www.napier.ac.uk/about-us/our-schools/school-of-engineering-and-the-built-environment/institute-for-sustainable-construction/about-us Edinburgh Napier University], the [http://www.cs-ic.org/ Construction Scotland Innovation Centre] and Scottish Enterprise. All have the same goal of using the best in timber offsite solutions to transform homes and communities in Scotland.

Leading the way for timber modular housing in Scotland, and one of the one of the founding companies of Offsite Solutions Scotland, is designer and manufacturer, [http://www.carbondynamic.com/ Carbon Dynamic]. Based north of Inverness, this organisation is no stranger to the harsh weather conditions the country can offer. Carbon Dynamic is committed to creating low energy, warm and beautiful homes created from locally-sourced and sustainable timber.

With many of the company’s projects located in rural and remote spaces such as sand dunes, next to rough sea shores, or nestled into woodlands, the challenge to build on these diverse sites is overcome thanks to Carbon Dynamic’s offsite solutions.

Using timber frame and cross-laminated timber (CLT), the shells of the homes are manufactured in Carbon Dynamic’s factory and transported to site to be erected in half the time a traditional build would take. This method of construction leant itself to a social housing scheme in the Highlands. Working with the Highland Council, [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/kendall-court Carbon Dynamic built eight apartments] that average £20 per month in energy bills and were designed with limited mobility residents in mind.

The company specifies timber such as Douglas fir or larch and all windows are manufactured by a local Scottish manufacturer, [https://www.treecraft-woodwork.com/ Treecraft Woodwork]. While local wood is used where possible, modified wood is also a popular choice due to its durability, a must with the harsh wind and rain conditions that many of the homes are subject to.

= Innovating the traditional =

It’s no secret that Scotland has some extreme weather, especially in the Highlands, so houses need to be made with highly durable materials with impressive thermal properties. Also based in Inverness, fellow member of Offsite Solutions Scotland, design and build company [http://makar.co.uk/ Makar] is well aware of this. Like Carbon Dynamic, Makar is a sustainability-conscious organisation and believes a home should be healthy too. Therefore, its construction material of choice is wood.

Wood used in buildings is known to improve indoor air quality, lower heartbeat rates for inhabitants and there’s a perception of decreased stress levels too.

Makar admits to being inspired by European alpine countries and Makar-built homes are a nod to Scotland’s topography using timber such as Douglas fir, Scots pine, Scottish-grown larch and Sitka spruce. Passionate about timber innovation, Makar has adapted local timber to create solid timber panels and modified timber.

A shining example of Makar’s work, in association with Neil Sutherland Architects, is [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/dunsmore-house Dunsmore House]set in woodlands in the Highlands. A unique project, this semi-detached self-build home was created for two families. The house was built using a platform timber frame structural system, prefabricated at Makar’s factory.

= Building a new ‘forest culture’ =

Scotland is making the most of its abundance of timber and is taking this natural building material into the 21st century. So, what is the secret to Scotland’s success and how can the rest of the UK follow suit?

Using land for forestry in Scotland is popular; even farmers have dedicated some of their land to woodland as it can be more profitable than rearing livestock. This enables Scotland to grow its own building materials and create jobs, a win-win for the local economy. According to the [http://www.confor.org.uk/ Confederation of Forest Industries] Confor, this is fostering a new ‘forest culture’ that could be welcomed anywhere in the UK where land is suitable for growing trees.

Campaigns such as [https://www.growninbritain.org/ Grown in Britain] are helping to support woods and forests and their supply chains in England and Wales. TV programme Countryfile and newspaper The Guardian have dedicated airtime and column inches to raising the profile of forestry in England and Wales, but commitment from the UK Government remains weak. However, the Welsh Government recognises the benefit to the local economy and [http://pstatic.powys.gov.uk/fileadmin/Docs/Housing/Housing_Report.pdf Powys County Council] has pledged that all new council house projects should consider wood first, looking to local suppliers. This is further encouraged by the publication of the Welsh Government’s ‘[http://senedd.assembly.wales/documents/s500003799/Report.pdf Branching Out]’ report, published last year with plans to increase woodland in Wales.

England has shown some promise following the planting of more than 200,000 trees at the [https://www.lowther.co.uk/ Lowther Estate] in Cumbria, one of the largest schemes in the country. Assisted by lobbying from Confor, the forest has also created more jobs. Another success story, also lobbied by Confor, is [http://www.doddingtonnorthforest.com/ Doddington Moor] in Northumberland. This is the largest project in England in 30 years and it is hoped will spur on many more. Since its establishment in 1995, [https://www.nationalforest.org/ The National Forest] in the Midlands has grown and the area has benefited from job creation, increased woodland skills and a lower carbon economy.

While Scotland is leading on innovation in timber housing, with the right levels of support and commitment, these solutions can easily be applied throughout the UK. It’s time for more homegrown homes in England.

Modified wood examples

2018-10-25T13:12:02Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "One of the glorious benefits of wood is its flexibility to be used innovatively in building. Modified wood may not be a familiar term, but this durable building material is being..."

One of the glorious benefits of wood is its flexibility to be used innovatively in building. Modified wood may not be a familiar term, but this durable building material is being used in homes, commercial and public buildings and external settings around the world.

The term modified wood describes wood products which have been modified through treatment with a chemical, biological or physical agent to enhance their performance.

What differentiates modified wood from traditional wood is how its modification increases durability, making it ideal for external cladding, decking, outdoor furniture and much more.

= Best in class =

The most common species of wood used in the modifying process are radiata pine, ash, sycamore and poplar.

Accoya creates a durable, non-toxic, dimensionally stable material through the chemical modifying of plantation grown softwood such as radiata pine. It’s mostly used for external cladding and wood siding, external decking and joinery, but Accoya’s project portfolio showcases major achievements using this pioneering material including the restoration of a battleship!

Norway-based Kebony manufactures a sustainable and durable version of modified wood, also from species such as pine, replicating the characteristics of hardwood. It’s mostly used for decking and cladding but has also been used for swimming pools, at seaside properties and in countries facing harsh weather conditions such as its home country.

ThermoWood by Metsa Wood is produced by heat treating Finnish grown pine and spruce to temperatures in excess of 200 degrees centigrade. During the heat treatment, chemical and structural changes occur within the timber which alter and improve some of its basic characteristics. The resulting product is more durable and stable timber, an ideal cladding material for use in exposed areas such as external walls.

Tricoya, a product made by Medite Smartply, is a more durable and stable version of the traditional MDF panel. Tricoya can be cut, painted and wrapped without compromising its durability and stability. It’s mostly used on door skins and door panels, façade panelling, trim, fascias and soffits.

British-based Brimstone is created from fast-growing hardwoods such as ash, sycamore and poplar which are grown in Britain. It is made differently to other modified timber as it uses wood thermal modification technology, meaning that it is super-heated in a controlled, oxygen-depleted environment. This creates a stable and durable product, ideal for external cladding, decking and outdoor furniture.

= Breaking the mould =

The science behind modified wood has enabled it to break into markets that were often untouched by the timber market, lending itself to unlikely projects such as canal lining, a penguin bridge in an aquarium and an external climbing wall, all normally created with materials such as stone or concrete.

Modified wood provides extra strength, resistance to fungi and rot, and is indigestible to termites. It retains the warmth that traditional wood products contribute to harsh exteriors or features made from stone, concrete, brick or steel.

Building on wood’s natural pleasing aesthetic, the Shou Sugi Ban method produces charred versions of Accoya, Kebony and Yukari cladding – a modern form of the ancient Japanese art of charring wood. The traditional craftmanship is combined with modern techniques to ensure the wood is charred evenly. This creates a fire-retardant carbon layer and a striking aesthetic.

= Products for the circular economy =

In addition to being a visual enhancer, modified wood brings many other benefits. It is a sustainable product, locking in carbon and contributing to the circular economy with most modified wood products using cradle to cradle design. This was the reason that Bangaroo House, a three-storey restaurant project in Sydney, Australia, chose Accoya modified wood. Sustainability was at the heart of the project and combined with Shou Sugi Ban, the outcome is a stunning piece of architecture. Should it ever need to be deconstructed, the modified wood can be recycled or reused, creating zero waste.

In its recent report “The Future of Sustainability in Design: Rising Trends in 2018 and beyond”, Kebony looks at smarter wood products and how modified wood has impressive longevity. Kebony states that “the desire to create more environmentally-friendly structures has naturally been affecting not just how homes or commercial building are designed, but also has prompted evolution in build materials themselves.” This reinforces the sustainable benefits modified wood can bring to the world of construction.

= An option for more comfort =

Alongside modified wood’s sustainable benefits are the health and wellbeing advantages. Wood is renowned for its calming qualities, a decreased perception of stress, a decrease in blood pressure, improved air quality and generally a heightened feeling of comfort. None of these advantages are lost in the modification of wood. Modified wood is also non-toxic, making it popular in nursery and school settings.

Wood is an ideal material to use to help reduce energy bills. A housing association in the West Midlands wanted to provide affordable housing for its residents and were concerned about the level of fuel poverty among their tenants. The architect, Architype, suggested building using Passivhaus principles to overcome this problem and they chose Brimstone to clad the homes. Not only is the cladding a hardwearing product, it assists in reducing energy bills and helps to make the homes more comfortable.

= Innovation with wood =

Modified wood is one example of how the timber industry is using science and engineering to keep refining this natural material. For this reason, modified timber has a dedicated chapter in Peter Wilson’s book, [https://woodforgood.com/training-and-development/publications/the-modern-timber-house The Modern Timber House in the UK], New Paradigms and Technologies, published by Wood for Good in 2017.

Timber advocate and architect, Peter Wilson, explains the methods and benefits of modifying wood before exploring an array of incredible case studies that showcase using modified wood for affordable homes and private projects.

Download or order a copy of the book [https://woodforgood.com/training-and-development/publications/the-modern-timber-house here].

= Further information =

Want to know more on how to specify modified wood products? Read our [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2018/10/08/interview-with-gordon-ewbank/ interview with Gordon Ewbank], Wood Protection Association.

Find more case studies on [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/?filterUpdate=Update&t%5B%5D=67 modified wood].

[[www.woodforgood.com|www.woodforgood.com]]

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood and Passivhaus

2018-10-25T13:09:32Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Homing in on the building performance gap, it’s no secret that new buildings often underperform when it comes to energy efficiency. On average, traditional new-build homes use ..."

Homing in on the building performance gap, it’s no secret that new buildings often underperform when it comes to energy efficiency. On average, traditional new-build homes use 60-80% more energy for heating than their design target. The result for Passivhaus? Zero percent. Sounds like a no-brainer? Read on here.

The UK government’s Industrial Strategy has set out some ambitious targets via the recently published [https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/construction-sector-deal Construction Sector Deal] and the [https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/industrial-strategy-the-grand-challenges/industrial-strategy-the-grand-challenges Clean Growth Grand Challenge] with a mission to halve energy use in new buildings by 2030. The methods to achieve this include developing innovative energy and low carbon technologies to reduce cost, coupled with quality-controlled construction techniques.

A proven and tested energy performance standard that fulfils the government’s aspirations is [http://www.passivhaustrust.org.uk/what_is_passivhaus.php Passivhaus]. A German concept developed in the early 1990s, and adopting passive design principles, Passivhaus achieves impressive energy efficiency as it bypasses the need for traditional heating and cooling systems.

Homing in on the [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2018/09/11/interview-with-george-martin/ building performance gap], it’s no secret that new buildings often underperform when it comes to energy efficiency in comparison to the expectations defined at the design stage. On average, traditional new-build homes use 60-80% more energy for heating than their design target. The result for Passivhaus? Zero percent.

= Creating a healthy environment =

Passivhaus is about airtightness and breathability, choosing the right [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/insulation insulation] material is key. Health is not a key element of Passivhaus certification, but it is in the interest of the Passivhaus designer, as it is for any good architect, to create a [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/health-and-wellbeing healthy environment] for building users.

The welcome long-term side-effects of Passivhaus performance include improved indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and self-maintained moisture and humidity levels. Homes designed to Passivhaus standards often benefit from increased space and daylight too.

= The affordable solution =

Passivhaus is widely seen as an option reserved for self-builders, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Many local authorities and housing associations are now building to Passivhaus standards for their own housing schemes, offering the benefits of this approach to their tenants.

Take for example [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/heathcott-road Heathcott Road]. Based in Leicestershire, this unassuming housing estate is in fact one of the largest affordable Passivhaus housing schemes in the country. The once disused and overgrown 13.2 acres of land has been regenerated into a £7 million community made up of a permaculture farm and 68 eco-homes that have been built to Passivhaus standards.

Designed by architects rg+p, the scheme addresses the needs of the local people by providing homes with one to four bedrooms, constructed using Westleigh Partnership’s Westframe PassiPlus timber framing. As a result, the homes achieve U-values as low as 0.1W/m2K.

This is an affordable solution for individuals and families who can look forward to a future of very small to zero energy bills. The homes have been built to Lifetime Homes Standard making them adaptable to residents’ needs throughout their lifetimes. In addition, the use of timber frame made the homes more cost-effective to build.

It’s a trend that’s catching on and other social housing and affordable home schemes built to Passivhaus standards include:

* Architype’s affordable housing project, [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/much-wenlock Much Wenlock], in Shropshire, also using timber frame;
* Mole Architects’ small development on [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/hindolveston-road Hindolveston Road] in Norfolk, using locally sourced timber boards;
* Lancaster Cohousing’s eco cohousing community in Forgebank, another of the largest Passivhaus scheme’s in the UK;
* Gentoo’s bungalow scheme on the Racecourse Estate in Sunderland that helps older people fight fuel poverty; and
* MH Architects’ scheme in Standings Court, West Sussex, which is a 100% affordable rented site.

= Building offsite =

Other goals for construction outlined in the Industrial Strategy include modular technology for [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/affordable-and-social-housing building offsite]. An example of this is Tectonic Architects’ Passivhaus built using cross-laminated timber (CLT) in Hackney, making it the first certified Passivhaus in the borough.

Hackney is a built-up area and the site for this home was no different. The urban infill site presented challenges with its conservation area location which receives no south-facing sun. Combatting limited site access and reducing disruption to existing neighbours, the use of CLT meant the structure could be constructed in just two days before being insulated with wood fibre insulation.

The result is a surprisingly light-filled building with a stable temperature and good air quality.

= Powerhouse: The future of Passivhaus? =

Powerhouse is a new and upcoming standard. It’s a Norwegian benchmark where the building must produce more renewable energy over its lifetime (typically 60 years) than it uses during its entire lifecycle. This includes construction, operation, future renovation and demolition. The building needs to achieve Passivhaus standard first, but Powerhouse takes it to the next level with a focus on energy generation, demonstrating how the standard is evolving to incorporate the circular economy.

For more examples of Passivhaus for both private and social projects visit our [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/ case studies] section.

[[www.woodforgood.com|www.woodforgood.com]]

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Standards_/_measurements]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

The future of housing

2018-10-25T13:07:16Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "If we were to fast-forward 20 years to take a look at UK housing, what might we see? For some, the very words ‘the future of housing’ conjure up mental images of the hi-tech ..."

If we were to fast-forward 20 years to take a look at UK housing, what might we see? For some, the very words ‘the future of housing’ conjure up mental images of the hi-tech architecture of Blade Runner and homes built by robots. For others, the expectation is of something much more traditional in look and feel, albeit smart-enabled and hiding multiple innovations under its skin.

Of course, the current reality is that, while some housing architects, self-builders and developers have delivered some incredible one-off projects, the UK’s mainstream housing supply is still heavily dominated by volume housebuilders and larger developers.

The most common private sector business model is based primarily upon the economics of land values, and a management system that prizes low risk consistency and repeatability. It’s all about placing the lowest possible demands on a moveable workforce to deliver a very well-understood, non-challenging new homes style that most customers generally like or think is good enough. It’s hardly a culture for innovation.

But take another look.

Driven by severe shortages in cheap labour, almost every volume housebuilder in the country is now exploring new methods of construction, and many have live research or pilot projects testing new manufacturing methods and offsite technologies. New joint ventures are emerging, and local authorities are re-entering the housebuilding industry with pioneering projects, providing homes for those most in need while raising capital through market sale, meaning more to invest in future projects. Costs is important, but so is quality. Council housing is back, and in a good way.

= New methods of construction are already underway =

Pre-manufacturing, precision manufacturing, modern methods of construction or offsite construction – whatever you choose to call it, this is the agenda du jour. The Government has set ambitious targets for housebuilding and the Construction Sector Deal pushes the offsite agenda yet further. It will lead to major changes over the next 20 years.

The offsite sector uses a broad spectrum of materials and technologies including highly energy efficient timber, lightweight steel, precast concrete and hybrid manufactured building technologies, all designed to create new solutions and speed up construction.

Applications such as cross laminated timber (CLT) and timber frame are often favoured in these factory-led approaches to housing. Tellingly, all of the organisations involved with the newly-launched Offsite Solutions Scotland build with timber, and Stewart Milne is the first timber engineering manufacturer of many expected to contribute to a [https://www.stewartmilnetimbersystems.com/building-in-timber-frame/building-information-modelling/bim-library BIM library] with floor, walls and roof products now created as BIM objects.

It’s not just the structural fabric or facades of a building that are changing. Interiors are being pre-manufactured offsite too, with volumetric kitchen and bathroom ‘pods’ designed using BIM to fit an exact space, reducing waste and making installation safer and easier.

Digital technology is also lending a hand to the flexibility of building design – a concept most recently explored by Cree's [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/lct-one-(lifecycle-tower-one) LifeCycle Tower] (LCT ONE). Built without load bearing walls, the building is completely adaptable on the inside. A hotel can become an apartment block and then an office, then revert back to a hotel. LCT ONE also uses technology to measure the performance data of the products used, with a preference for timber as a natural and renewable source.

= Community-led housing leads to more timber spaces =

We can also see changes coming through an increase in community-led housing, and a greater emphasis on health, wellbeing and high quality placemaking. According to housing design experts, all the key health-related elements such as sunlight, well landscaped open spaces, thermal stability, good ventilation and accessibility are increasingly making their way into the broader housing market.

To see recent examples of this, look no further than last month’s [https://hdawards.org/ Housing Design Awards] winners.

The overall winner was the Bourne Estate, a shining example of how a housing architect and a local authority (in this case, Matthew Lloyd Architects and Camden Council) worked together to rejuvenate an Edwardian council estate, delivering new high-quality flats which are enriched by highly effective communal spaces.

Though a contentious process at times, a genuine consultation with existing residents gave them a say in the look, use and feel of the building. So while communal spaces in blocks of flats are often unsociable and dingy spaces, especially for social housing, that isn’t the case with the Bourne Estate which is filled with intricate design features including oak slatted ceilings and solid dark timber doors that give the area warmth.

Similarly, AHMM’s winning project Signal Townhouses has created a real community feel. Built on brownfield land, the first phase of the site has delivered 16 three-storey homes around a courtyard, bringing the community together while also allowing privacy. The back-to-back homes are spacious and full of light.

Many projects in the Housing Design Awards encompass this sort of quality, community living and innovative design, and they also prioritise health and wellbeing to provide the very best living accommodation.

= Stepping up the standards – keeping it local, healthy and a place to call home =

All of these examples also point to changing expectations about the design and build quality of UK housing.

In July 2018 at the Policy Exchange, UK housing minister James Brokenshire MP gave a [https://policyexchange.org.uk/pxevents/rt-hon-james-brokenshire-mp-making-the-housing-market-work/ speech on housing] and how the drive for quantity should not affect quality. Brokenshire described the future of housing as “high-quality, energy efficient and manufacturing-led.”

Post-Grenfell, revisions to Building Regulations and improvements to the system of checks and controls on building standards are likely to start affecting the new home building sector very soon. Under the watchful scrutiny of the [http://cic.org.uk/services/all-party-parliamentary-group.php APPG for Excellence in the Built Environment] and other parliamentary groups, pressure will continue to be put on housebuilders to deliver more homes, faster, with fewer defects and much improved after-sales service. The hope is for a much more customer-centric housing market in the future.

= Smart home technology bringing us right up-to-date =

But in case you are worried these areas of change all just sound a bit too low-tech for the future, take heart.

Any diehard Back to the Future II fan will remember Marty getting a video call via his TV from his boss, delivering the news that he was fired. In 1989 this seemed like a crazy concept, but smart technology like this has been around for several years now and more of it is moving from the office into our homes.

Smart technology is already creating a flourishing new market for apps and housing features that serve our needs for energy saving, security, communications and entertainment. This is an industry that’s booming and not too far into the future it’s likely that most new homes will incorporate data analysis tools to allow a home to respond fully to the behaviour of its inhabitants.

= Learn more about the future of housing =

[https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2018/08/08/interview-with-hubert-rhomberg/ Read our interview] with Hubert Rhomberg on Construction 4.0

[https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2018/08/09/who-will-build-the-uks-future-homes-lessons-from-the-housing-design-awards-2018/ Who will build our future homes?] Read David Birkbeck, Wood for Good's ambassador, take on lessons learned from this year's Housing Design Awards.

[[www.woodforgood.com|www.woodforgood.com]]

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood and healthcare buildings

2018-10-25T13:02:49Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Numerous reports have shown that a calm and relaxing environment, particularly if it reflects nature, can have a positive effect on our emotional and physical health. In the NHS..."

Numerous reports have shown that a calm and relaxing environment, particularly if it reflects nature, can have a positive effect on our emotional and physical health. In the NHS’ 70th year, how can the healthcare sector take advantage of this natural healer while still enabling medical practitioners to deliver excellent care in a clean or sterile environment?

In recent years, the link between the indoor environment and health and wellbeing has moved firmly into the mainstream. Numerous reports have shown that a calm and relaxing environment, particularly if it reflects nature, can have a positive effect on our emotional and physical health.

For people suffering ill-health, recovering from an operation or in need of nursing care, creating a relaxing and healthy environment is even more important, aiding recovery and speeding discharge from hospital, and improving emotional wellbeing for those in long-term care.

In the NHS’ 70th year, how can the healthcare sector take advantage of this natural healer while still enabling medical practitioners to deliver excellent care in a clean or sterile environment?

= Reducing stress levels in hospitals and health centres =

A report by Planet Ark found that using wood in the interior of a building provides clear physical and emotional benefits similar to the effect of spending time in nature. These benefits are particularly significant in environments such as hospitals where plants and flowers may be prohibited due to health and safety guidelines.

Studies have demonstrated that simply having a view of nature from a window can have significant positive effects, such as shorter post-operative hospital stays and increased feelings of relaxation in patients at rehabilitation centres. In addition, following biophilic principles, the presence of indoor plants has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate and to increase a patient’s tolerance of pain in hospital.

A Japanese study carried out in a care home found that by providing wooden tables, chairs and tableware, the interaction between residents increased, resulting in an improved emotional state.

= Using timber to lift the spirits =

The reason wood has such a positive effect on human health is because it lowers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation. SNS causes the stress response; increasing blood pressure and heart rate and inhibiting functions like digesting, recovery and repair. When surrounded by nature and timber products, these symptoms decrease.

A 2009 report from the Commission for Architecture and Built Environment highlights how buildings can have a positive effect on health and well-being. Materials from sustainable sources can raise our spirits; and natural light, ventilation and views of nature help to reduce stress which is a barrier to healing.

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/maggies-centres Maggie’s cancer care centres] are well-known for creating calm, natural environments that use the power of architecture to lift the spirits and help patients, carers and visitors to feel relaxed. The use of wood at [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/maggies-oldham Maggie’s Oldham] is part of a bigger design intention to reverse the norms of hospital architecture, where clinical institutionalised environments can make patients feel dispirited. Meanwhile, [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/maggies-manchester Maggie’s Manchester] provides a homely atmosphere in a garden setting that maximises natural wood and light.

= Offsite construction for less disruption =

Methods of construction for healthcare facilities are as important as design and materials, especially when an existing site is being expanded and patients are being treated nearby. Modern methods of construction such as offsite and modular can speed up average build times by a third, minimising traffic, disruption and noise on-site.

The [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/dyson-neonatal-center Dyson Centre for Neonatal Care] at the Royal United Hospital in Bath was built from large cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels, resulting in an efficient, clean and quiet method of construction. The CLT panels and all the openings were cut to size in the Austrian factory. Once transported to Bath construction was completed within just three weeks. The walls are lined with wood fibre insulation, helping to create a comfortable, breathable environment while also improving internal air quality.

= CLT delivers calming and comfortable spaces =

The Dyson Centre is the first UK clinical healthcare unit to be built using exposed timber surfaces. The centre includes wood panelling and plenty of natural daylight, and medical equipment is hidden to create a sense of well-being for patients and families.

After the building opened, a research team was set up to measure the effect of the new building on staff, parents, babies and the environment. Its results show the new building is quieter and more energy efficient. Staff spend more time in clinical rooms, parent and baby interaction has improved and babies sleep 20% longer.

The building is one of the first examples of the use of CLT in a healthcare environment; it demonstrates that the material can help to achieve a sustainable agenda, its surfaces can meet the requirements for infection control and it can create spaces which are calming and comfortable to users and staff.

= Improving the health of the nation =

Choosing timber for a building’s construction and interior can help to create a healthier environment, a vital consideration in healthcare facilities where people are recovering from illness or surgery. By designing healthcare buildings with natural materials, biophilic principles and outdoor spaces, and by ensuring they are easily accessible for patients, staff and visitors alike, architects can play a positive role in the health of the nation.

With the development of NHS Healthy New Towns we should see more and more healthy healthcare facilities being built in healthy places.

Find out more about wood in buildings at [http://www.woodforgood.com/ www.woodforgood.com]

Find further examples of healthy healthcare buildings [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/?filterUpdate=Update&type%5B%5D=20 here].

Discover the 'Feelgood Wood Health Centre' in Canada [https://codoureyrocks.wordpress.com/2017/12/08/the-feelgood-wood-health-centre-in-canda/ here].

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood and Build to Rent

2018-10-25T13:00:56Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Build to Rent is the latest buzz word in the UK housing market. The market for private rented residential schemes that are specifically designed and built for rent rather than sa..."

Build to Rent is the latest buzz word in the UK housing market. The market for private rented residential schemes that are specifically designed and built for rent rather than sale is growing rapidly. What is specific about this new sector and how do sustainable timber products fit in?

The British Property Federation estimates there are almost 120,000 Build to Rent units already built, under construction or in planning across the UK; a 30% increase over the last year.

Mostly, they are owned by institutional investors who require a long-term rental growth and they are often managed by specialist operators. However, public sector organisations such as housing associations and local authorities are also entering the market. Their aim is to help relieve the housing shortage in their area while also generating revenue to fund further housing developments.

Typically, Build to Rent schemes target young professionals, students and downsizers who buy into the lifestyle and convenience of well-built properties with a superior fit and finish, that are close to local amenities.

Build to Rent developers and investors are in the market for the long haul; choosing higher-end materials both within the building’s fabric and the fit and finish that will stand the test of time. This is in stark contrast to those properties built for sale where cheaper materials and finishes are frequently specified to maximise profits for the developer.

We caught up with Ashley Perry, Build to Rent consultancy director at asset management firm [https://www.liv-group.co.uk/prs/our-people/ LIV Consult] and Oliver Booth, partner at property consultancy [http://www.gardiner.com/ Gardiner & Theobald], to discuss some of the challenges faced by developers in the Build to Rent sector, to examine some of the opportunities for the timber products and to ask how they see the Build to Rent market shaping up over the coming years.

Take a look at the video [https://vimeo.com/273696003 here].

Good examples for the use of engineered timber in Build to Rent and Private Rental Schemes are:

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/the-brickyard The Brickyard by dRMM for Red Door Ventures]

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/dalston-works Dalston Works by Waugh Thistleton for Regal Homes]

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/banyan-wharf The Cube by Hawkins/Brown for Regal Homes]

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/trafalgar-place Trafalgar Place by dRMM for Lendlease]

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/lewes-road 106 Lewes Road by Waugh Thistleton for MacLaren]

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/curtain-place Curtain Place by Waugh Thistleton for Gold Section Homes]

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/wyng-gardens Wyng Gardens by Freeland Rees Roberts for Trinity Hall]

[[www.woodforgood.com|www.woodforgood.com]]

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Property_development]]

Wood and custom build homes

2018-10-25T12:56:25Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Using a successful house design and replicating it is a cost effective and sustainable way to build. No wonder, kit houses are fast becoming a solution for developing new communi..."

Using a successful house design and replicating it is a cost effective and sustainable way to build. No wonder, kit houses are fast becoming a solution for developing new communities. As a new route to housing delivery in the UK, custom build is growing in popularity; 10% of all new builds are custom build.

Constructed from a range of prefabricated components, kit houses are assembled on site, reducing disruption to neighbours and minimising construction traffic. Some offer the homeowner a choice of components enabling them to put an individual stamp on their home.

[https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/marmalade-lane Marmalade Lane] by K1 Housing is a great example of how this works. Within this development, dwellings range from one-bedroom flats through to four-bedroom family homes.

With £3 billion available from the Home Building Fund for custom housebuilders, SME builders, large housebuilders and developers; and with the [http://righttobuildtoolkit.org.uk/ Right to Build Taskforce] influencing self-build registers in every local authority, custom build is set to become accessible to everyone.

= Our five best kit house schemes - for now! =

There are many great examples of kit houses incorporating timber; here we’ve put together our top five projects:

1. Sandpath and Kiss House - timber, self-build and affordability working in harmony

This [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/sandpath self-build project in Oxfordshire] replaced a former run-down bungalow with a simple cuboid form assembled from a flat-pack of structural insulated timber panels.

The house was such a successful design that it became a prototype for the Kiss House. Made from a CLT structure to Passivhaus standards, the Kiss House is available as a 2, 3 or 4-bedroom home. Teaming together to make these beautiful homes are Adrian James Architects, Trunk Low Energy Building, and WARM Low Energy Building.

2. TAM - addressing ‘Generation Rent’s’ struggle to get on the housing ladder

White Design and Modcell developed the [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/tam TAM], a zero-carbon home that doesn’t require a mortgage or planning consent. The clever design means it’s covered by the Caravan Act.

Constructed from straw bale and timber, it is a [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/health-and-wellbeing healthy home] in a small but well-planned space that still meets the minimum 60-year design life as expected with a conventional home.

3. Wudl – championing timber in micro-buildings

Wudl offers a few variations of small dwellings which it calls micro-buildings. Available in three different sizes and designs suitable for small homes, holiday homes, small offices or playrooms, the structures are made up of prefabricated timber sections.

There are many customisable options and sustainability is high on the agenda. Wudl has gone beyond taking individual orders and is involved with two custom build developments – [https://www.homemadeheartlands.co.uk/ Heartlands in Cornwall], and [https://gravenhill.co.uk/ Graven Hill in Bicester].

4. Trivselhus – using timber frame to create energy efficient homes

Established by Sodra, Sweden’s largest forest-owner association, Trivselhus encompasses all that is great about Swedish housebuilding. The timber frames are built in a factory in just 8-12 weeks and then taken to site where they are installed within a week.

The windows, doors and service conduits are already cut into the walls so once installed it doesn’t take long to complete the home.

Also appealing to developers, building a Trivselhus requires a smaller team on-site and is less affected by bad weather than traditional builds.

A partnership between developer TOWN and Trivselhus, TOWNhus delivers homes at Maramalade cohousing scheme in Cambridge.

5. Gale & Snowden - ecological kit houses

This architect firm has created ecological kit houses using modular timber frame units. These super-insulated, highly energy efficient homes cost less than £80 a year to heat.

The eco measures don’t stop at heating as there are custom options that include compost toilets and rainwater collection points; and for the garden choices include habitats for encouraging natural ecosystems, micro-climates, food production and a mini forest garden.

=== Custom build homes with a conscience ===

The architects responsible for the schemes above are conscious of a responsibility to not only build in a sustainable way but also to make homes healthier.

As timber is a renewable, carbon-sequestering material, when incorporated into home design it embraces circular economy ideology. That’s what the following architectural practices, both based in the Highlands of Scotland, have done. Further modular house types can be found in [https://woodforgood.com/training-and-development/publications/the-modern-timber-house The Modern Timber House in the UK].

Dualchas – striking, affordable homes

Dualchas creates homes that are moody, sophisticated and blend into the topography of the Scottish Isles. Based on the ‘blackhouse’ – traditional to the Highlands, each home is individual yet there is a family resemblance through the modern yet practical design.

Making the most of the breath-taking scenery, the striking homes are in fact quite affordable and Dualchas makes the most of using natural materials. The dark stained timber cladding to the exterior gives these homes their iconic look.

Carbon Dynamic – community-led housing for health and social care

Carbon Dynamic specialises in modular offsite timber manufacture and the firm has partnered up with Albyn Housing Society and NHS Highland to develop Fit Homes.

Timber is well renowned for its health benefits so it was an obvious choice of material for people needing health and social care, assisted living and end of life care. The homes contribute to occupants’ wellbeing and are flexible to their mobility needs. They are fully adaptable so that so they can be easily altered as a person’s needs change.

The houses have been co-designed with the people who will use them and will help them to be active, healthy and remain a part of their community. This is a great example of how architects are coming together with developers and timber contractors to drive community-led housing.

=== Kit homes galore ===

Find more inspiring, innovative 'kit homes' on our [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/?filterUpdate=Update&type%5B%5D=63 website]. Or submit your own scheme [https://woodforgood.com/info/submit-a-case-study here].

Find out more information on custom build homes [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/custom-build-homes here].

[[www.woodforgood.com|www.woodforgood.com]]

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Construction_techniques]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood and educational buildings

2018-10-25T12:49:46Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” said Nelson Mandela. So, what can be done for the future of education buildings to ensure they ..."

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” said Nelson Mandela. So, what can be done for the future of education buildings to ensure they are structurally sound, healthy and nurturing environments, and can also be built and maintained under tight budgets?

The famous quote from Nelson Mandela serves as a reminder of how important education is. Looking at the UK’s current stock of education buildings, in many cases the environment in which children are learning is less than adequate. Reports have [https://www.architecture.com/-/media/gathercontent/better-spaces-for-learning/additional-documents/ribabetterspacesforlearningpdf.pdf found existing schools to be damp and leaky] and it was headline news when 17 schools in Edinburgh were closed due to poor construction. A [http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-39043733 National Audit Office report] has revealed that to get all school buildings up to scratch would cost an estimated £6.7 billion.

= Designing for the next generation =

Currently, there are no specific requirements set out by the government for the building of schools other than non-statutory guidelines such as the [https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/324056/BB103_Area_Guidelines_for_Mainstream_Schools_CORRECTED_25_06_14.pdf ‘Area guidelines for mainstream schools’] which provides details on the spaces recommended for schools based on pupil numbers, age range and curriculum.

With limited direction from the government, the onus is on the architect or building designer to work with the local authority or sponsor of the building to achieve the best outcome.

With this in mind, how can we use timber in educational buildings help to create learning spaces which inspire learning, foster creativity and improve productivity for children and young adults?

= Timber helps to take the stress out of learning =

Health and wellbeing is a topical issue in construction. With numerous studies examining the achievable health and wellbeing benefits for building occupiers, it’s no wonder that so many clients are including it in their design briefs.

This extends to education buildings too. An Austrian study conducted by Human Research compared the health of children in two different classrooms; one constructed with timber and the other with standard materials. The results of the study were substantial; and showed children in the timber classroom were less stressed, had significantly lower heart rates and were generally happier. Other studies have highlighted the positive response people have had in buildings made from or containing wood because of the warm and calming effect it has.

= Bringing the outdoors in to increase productivity and creativity =

The calm and peaceful feeling people experience in a timber building is linked to biophilic design. [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/The_Biophilic_Office Biophilia means a love of nature] and is essentially about bringing the outdoors in, with increased daylight, use of timber and plants.

Buildings using biophilic design, particularly timber, have shown the same benefits as the Austrian classroom study. Biophilia also helps increase productivity and creativity - essential elements for a learning environment.

[http://www.oliverheath.com/ Oliver Heath Design], a sustainable architecture and interior design practice, cites research that education spaces built with biophilic design principles increase the rate of learning by 20-25% and can improve test results, concentration levels and attendance. It can also reduce the impacts of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Oliver Heath Design used timber in a creative way to transform a gym in a school for children with special educational needs. The hexagonal seating at Hackney Garden school constructed of natural wood is not just aesthetically pleasing but provides a space for children to relax and recharge their batteries.

= Improving indoor air quality =

Indoor air quality is an issue high up on the health and wellbeing agenda. Air pollution is the biggest environmental health risk on the planet and our education spaces are a contributor. [https://www.reading.ac.uk/news-and-events/releases/PR18842.aspx A study by the University of Reading] revealed that 35% of school hours had inadequate air quality conditions. When the students in these classrooms were tested, it was clear that higher levels of CO2 were affecting their cognitive abilities, resulting in lower memory capabilities and reduced reaction times.

The simple combination of plants and wooden interiors can significantly improve indoor air quality through effective humidity regulation and removal of CO2 from the air.

= Flexible spaces and rapid construction =

Timber engineering allows for wood to be manipulated into a variety of shapes and sizes, so furniture and interiors can be moulded to fit the needs of children and students, rather than the other way around.

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is another result of great timber engineering and CLT alongside timber frame is increasingly being used for education buildings due to faster build times. Construction of education buildings often requires a quick turnaround and the summer break offers the perfect opportunity for this work to take place.

CLT and timber frame can be manufactured offsite in factories, meaning they can be delivered to site and installed in a matter of weeks. This reduces construction traffic and minimises the need for a large number of construction workers on site.

This type of construction also lends itself to a more flexible building and features such as interchangeable walls can be incorporated so the building users can adapt the building as requirements change.

Education spaces should inspire students from nursery through to higher education. [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/health-and-wellbeing Designing buildings and interiors that improve health, air quality and productivity] should be top of the brief to ensure that future generations get the best from their educational experiences.

= Further information =

Read our interview with Eleanor Brough, associate at Sarah Wigglesworth Architects, on [https://woodforgood.com/news-and-views/2018/03/22/interview-with-eleanor-brough/ the future of classroom design].

Explore case studies of [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/?&p=1&type[]=19 education buildings].

Find out more about wood in buildings and the lifecycle database at [http://www.woodforgood.com/ www.woodforgood.com]

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood and insulation

2018-10-25T09:22:57Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "= Can wood fibre make a home healthier? = When you think of winter, what images do you conjure up in your mind? Snowy scenes? Skeletal trees tinged with frost? Scraping ice from..."

= Can wood fibre make a home healthier? =

When you think of winter, what images do you conjure up in your mind? Snowy scenes? Skeletal trees tinged with frost? Scraping ice from your windscreen? For most, it’s being curled up by a fire in a warm and cosy house as winter time is a physical reminder of the importance buildings play in keeping us warm and protected from harsher elements.

A key factor in keeping buildings warm is insulation. Up until the 1970s, insulation in homes was barely a consideration but now it’s recognised as a fundamental part of the building fabric.

Insulation can be applied to roofs, cavity walls, solid walls, floors and more. When installed correctly it works well – creating a cosy environment and potentially saving the building occupant on energy bills.

However, for insulation to do the best job it can, it needs to work well in relation to other systems in the building fabric such as ventilation and air tightness. If all of these areas are considered in the design stage it can make for a much healthier home.

=== Why wood fibre insulation? ===

Wood fibre insulation is natural and natural fibre insulation has been used for thousands of years. Wood fibre is made from tiny cellulose microfibres held together with a lignin resin, a natural resin that is part of the tree.

The benefit of this is that wood fibre allows for moisture movement, which is essential to the building fabric. Combined with good ventilation and air tightness systems, vapour can transfer through the building fabric allowing for breathability. In this way, moisture levels can be maintained at the optimum level and the build-up of damp and mould is decreased.

There are many factors to consider when bringing all of these systems together. Humidity and moisture levels are ever changing and the materials chosen should respond and work together to achieve the best results. This needs to be analysed at the design stage to ensure the systems will work.

=== How does wood fibre insulation work? ===

Wood fibre insulation can be manufactured in the form of a board (either wet formed with no binder or dry formed with binder, but with no flame retardant chemicals used in either) or as flexible wood fibre. The latter is a thermally bonded non-woven product.

The different ways of manufacturing wood fibre insulation allow for varied densities, compressive strength, heat storage, and moisture movement. This means it can be used for a range of construction projects.

Wood fibre insulation works well with timber frame buildings. The way the insulation can be fitted around the openings on the timber frame can achieve very low heat conduction values, in comparison with other construction products, which can total up to an 80% reduction in heat loss.

=== What are the health benefits of wood fibre insulation? ===

Indoor air quality is high on the health agenda right now and with most people spending 90% of their time indoors, these internal environments often aren’t the healthiest. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are in the air that we breathe and when indoors the level is often two to three times higher. VOCs are commonly released from paints and varnishes, adhesives, wood products, cleaning products, furniture and insulation.

Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring VOC and is made by the human body. It’s used to form other chemicals and is found in many of the products listed above. Though all species of wood contain and emit some emissions of formaldehyde, over-exposure can be harmful to humans. Having a well-ventilated building with breathable insulation that manages temperature, humidity and pollution levels makes a significant difference and helps to manage the impact of this harmful gas. Wood fibre insulation is ideal as part of a system to improve overall indoor air quality and make a home healthier.

=== What other qualities does wood fibre insulation have? ===

Wood fibre insulation’s thermal properties are impressive. The high density means heat is stored during the summer and released during the winter as the external walls cool, hence lower energy bills.

It has great acoustic qualities as wood fibre insulation absorbs sound so makes for a quieter living space. It also has naturally fire-resistant properties and can withstand high temperatures.

=== Examples of buildings with wood fibre insulation ===

Passivhaus homes in Norfolk were built using 100mm wood fibre insulation boards which were installed externally over a 195mm deep insulated timber frame. This minimised thermal bridging on the floor junctions and around the windows, improving the C-value and the overall U-value.

Proving wood fibre insulation isn’t just for new-builds with perfectly smooth walls, a draughty Victorian terrace underwent a complete refurbishment and has benefitted from an 88% reduction in heating bills. Rigid wood fibre board was used on the front and flexible wood fibre wool on the rear of the board. This combination moulded itself to the shape of the uneven wall surface so there was no need to render it flat first.

Wood fibre insulation works for more than just homes and helped to transform the [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/edinburgh-centre-for-carbo-innovation Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation,] an 18th century building. A cross laminated timber frame and floor panel system was used with a combination of flexible wood fibre batts and rigid fibreboard with an internal OSB airtight layer. This enabled an historic building to be restored rather than demolished.

More examples can be found in our [https://woodforgood.com/case-studies/?filterUpdate=Update&t%5B%5D=53 case study collection].

=== Find out more ===

Come along to the annual [https://asbp.org.uk/healthybuildings2019 ASBP Healthy Buildings Conference & Expo] on 28 February 2019 to learn more about achieving a healthier, low carbon built environment.

For more information on how wood fibre insulation boards and products are made up take a look at the [https://woodfibreinsulation.co.uk/wood-fibre-insulation-101-podcast/ Back to Earth podcast].

Key benefits of wood fibre insulation are compiled [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/insulation here].

Further information on the benefits of building with wood can be found [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/ here].

[[www.woodforgood.com|www.woodforgood.com]]

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood and interiors

2017-12-05T13:49:39Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Interest in [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/health-and-wellbeing health and wellbeing] in buildings has really risen in recent years. As ‘sustainability’ as a buzzw..."

Interest in [https://woodforgood.com/why-choose-wood/health-and-wellbeing health and wellbeing] in buildings has really risen in recent years.

As ‘sustainability’ as a buzzword lost some its novelty and glamour and just became business as usual for all responsible organisations, attention started to refocus on topics such as indoor air quality, natural daylight, thermal comfort, acoustics, biophilia and the impact on our physical and psychological wellbeing of the materials we use on the inside of buildings too.

You’ll have heard the big statistic. We spend 90% of our time indoors. It comes from a US study conducted in 2001, funded by the US Environmental Protection Association, and that study has influenced a lot of public policy on pollution, health and productivity ever since.

One of the things it has led to is a greater understanding of the health benefits of living with wood, and the environmental benefits, comfort and aesthetic improvements you can achieve by choosing timber doors, windows, floors and staircases. Studies have shown joinery products can improve emotional state, reduce blood pressure, heart rate and stress and improve sleep patterns. Timber interiors also add warmth and character to a home.

Wood delivers on innovative design, speed, cost and resource efficiency, and offers a path to a low carbon economy. By specifying the right timber species and products for the right uses, architects and building users can be assured that those timber products will last for a long time and will continue to make us feel better about our buildings.

Timber doors

Internal and external timber doors are great to look at, and to touch. They provide excellent acoustic and thermal properties. As with all interior joinery products, they contribute to indoor air quality through effective humidity regulation.

For dwellings that need fire doors, such as blocks of flats and other types of shared accommodation, or homes with a loft conversion or where there’s an internal door between a garage and the home, timber fire doors are the perfect solution. Third-party certificated doors and doorsets provide proven performance against fire and smoke, protecting lives and property.

Timber windows

Timber framed windows, combined with double or triple glazing, save energy, carbon dioxide emissions and money. They can be manufactured in a variety of styles so are ideal for all types of homes. The wood can be painted and treated so can be a statement element to a home. Treatment can be reapplied after 10 years, and in 7 year intervals after that, making them a long-lasting product.

“While PVC-u windows - originally hailed as ‘the future’ for durability and ease and a new, cheaper option - were installed in their thousands in the 70s, 80s and 90s, today we’re seeing new questions arising. A growing recognition among environmentally aware millennials that wood really is good,” says the [http://www.woodwindowalliance.com/medialibrary/uploads/Documents/pdf/WWA_The%20Rise%20of%20Natural%20Wellness_low%20res.pdf Wood Window Alliance] (WWA).

Read the WWA’s report on the life cycle analysis of timber windows [https://woodforgood.com/assets/Downloads/LCA_Report%202.pdf here].

Timber flooring

Timber flooring can come in softwood such as pine, hardwood such as oak, and engineered boards. The latter is best for homes opting for underfloor heating.

As with all timber joinery products, timber flooring brings a wide range of health benefits. For allergy sufferers, hardwood flooring is often cited as the best solution. It doesn’t hold on to dust mites, mould or mildew. It’s also much easier to keep clean.

Timber flooring is another way to add character to a home. It is hardwearing and will last longer than carpet.

Timber stairs

The stair is the centrepiece of any building, and tiny details can make the mundane magical in terms of the architectural styling of the stair surroundings.

Timber stairs are often chosen for their high-performance characteristics, extensive and varied range of finishes and the sheer natural beauty of timber as a material.

The [http://www.bwfstairscheme.org.uk/ BWF Stair Scheme] has produced design and installation guides to assist architects and contractors in making the most of timber stairs. A staircase can and should be beautiful and safe.

Take a look at the Wood for Good website for further [https://woodforgood.com/training-and-development/ events], bespoke [https://woodforgood.com/training-and-development/#tab-2 workshops] and [https://woodforgood.com/training-and-development/online-courses online training] opportunities

[http://www.woodforgood.com/ www.woodforgood.com]

Sources: US Environmental Protection Association; British Woodworking Federation; Wood Window Alliance; Wood Campus; Fire Door Safety Week; British Woodworking Federation Stair Scheme; Heriot Watt University; NHS; Allergy Store; Wood Awards; ASBP

Wood and modern methods of construction

2017-12-05T13:45:35Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Wood you build offsite? How modern methods of construction can end the housing crisis Modern methods of construction? Offsite construction? Modular housing? It’s pre-fab but n..."

Wood you build offsite? How modern methods of construction can end the housing crisis

Modern methods of construction? Offsite construction? Modular housing? It’s pre-fab but not as we know it. Gone are the images of post-World War Two homes, quickly constructed to house returning soldiers and their families whose homes had been bombed during the war.

Today, offsite construction has much higher aspirations. Though the turnaround for this style of build is still quick, there is no compromise on quality, strength, thermal insulation, or longevity.

Innovation

Britain’s housing crisis has been high on the agenda for years but the volume of housebuilding still can’t keep up with demand. Owing mostly to the recession, skilled labour shortages and rising material costs for traditional build methods are stumping the growth of the housebuilding sector. Hence Mark Farmer’s ‘Modernise or die’ report. The UK housebuilding sector is positioned as afraid of change and stuck in the industrial age.

Innovation in the housebuilding sector is key and offsite construction is the solution. Homes constructed offsite can be turned around in a matter of weeks. They are designed using the latest technology, ensuring minimal waste and allowing for increased quality control checks. Factories for modular homes can support the local economy by providing jobs for local people too.

During installation, disruption to surrounding residents and businesses is minimised with time on-site reduced by more than 70%. Less time on-site also lowers the risk of accidents for installers. Buildings constructed offsite are also lightweight, so the amount of tonnage transported on the road is also reduced.

Timber technology

The housing industry is catching on and both Legal and General and Swan Housing Association have invested in factories solely for offsite construction using Cross Laminated Timber (CLT).

CLT can be used for a variety of housing projects ranging from terraced homes, detached homes to apartment blocks. The timber engineering used to create CLT ensures greater energy efficiency, strength, durability and outstanding acoustic qualities.

Meanwhile, Winchester City Council chose timber frame for the first houses it had built in 25 years. The council needed to provide affordable and adaptable homes to meet the needs of the local people. The use of timber frame was ideal for the constrained site as it resulted in less raw materials needing to be delivered and stored on-site compared to traditional methods of construction.

With less loadbearing walls, the homes can easily be adapted in the future to suit the needs of the tenants. This along with the high levels of air tightness achieved shows that timber frame can be an ideal solution for quality affordable housing.

Affordability

Offsite construction is a cost-effective model, ideal for housing associations under pressure to deliver high-quality, energy efficient homes. In response to this pressure, Swan Housing Association established its NU build brand to build many of its new homes offsite, enabling it to cut its usual construction timescale by half.

Offsite construction reduces manufacturing process costs while providing local people with energy efficient and sustainable homes. It’s estimated that four million people in the UK are living in fuel poverty so making housing stock more energy efficient is essential.

Investment

While offsite construction is already a proven success in Europe, the UK lending community is only now coming around to the idea of modern methods of construction. The Buildoffsite Property Assurance Scheme (BOPAS) gives lenders assurance that offsite constructed homes have a minimum lifespan of 60 years.

UK lenders need to get on board before foreign investors and developers jump in. It’s an opportunity not to be missed by the private rental sector too. The fast turnaround on construction means a quicker return on investment and with build costs lower than traditional methods of construction, profit margins can also be higher.

Why wood?

Wood is a carbon store, it has proven health benefits, it is a sustainable building material and its aesthetic qualities are hard to match.

Building with CLT and timber frame incorporates all of these qualities while being lightweight and durable. It combines modern engineering techniques with one of the oldest building materials.

To find out more about offsite construction, CLT or how wood can be used in the built environment visit [http://www.woodforgood.com/ www.woodforgood.com]

Sources: NU build; BOPAS; Offsite magazine; Elite Systems; Mortgage Introducer; Estates Gazette; TTJ; Legal and General

File:Wood for Good.png

2017-10-20T11:00:17Z

Wood for Good:

Wood and hybrid structures

2017-07-10T11:46:44Z

Wood for Good:

Hybrid structures combine the best properties of each material used in construction to achieve efficient solutions for complex designs. [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:Wood_for_Good Wood for Good] shares 10 key facts about wood and hybrid structures.

* Many buildings don’t suit the ‘one size fits all’ criteria. This applies to building materials too. Hybrid construction takes the best qualities from each material.

* Wood is used extensively in construction yet sometimes it’s necessary to combine wood with other materials such as steel or concrete; creating a hybrid structure.

* Hybrid construction is particularly common when building large or tall structures such as apartment blocks, offices, visitor centres or schools to provide extra structural support.

* Timber engineered wood products feature heavily in hybrid structures, including Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) and Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL).

* Hybrid structures often result in aesthetically pleasing, cost effective, and sustainable buildings. Designs can be as simple or complex as needed. Hybrid construction is particularly beneficial for more complex designs.

* Hybrid structures are often made up of elements constructed offsite. Offsite construction means faster build times and is well received in built up areas as it creates less disruption, noise and mess.

* Hybrid structures achieve structural efficiency and often a reduction in carbon footprint. Hybrid structures are an economical, architectural, sustainable and structurally feasible alternative. Initial costs may seem high but the speed of construction balances this out.

* Wood is great for compression and steel is great for tension. When combined, they can make a very sturdy building.

* A common use of wood in hybrid structures is a timber roof structure on steel panels or timber floor panels with a steel structural frame (an alternative to concrete). Wood and steel can be left exposed, creating a beautiful structure.

* Wood and concrete work well together with concrete often providing the foundations and service cores. Waste materials can be included within concrete mix and using precast concrete aids the speed of the construction process.

Published by [https://woodforgood.com Wood for Good]

Sources: TRADA “Hybrid construction: Timber-based solutions to structural challenges”; B&K Structures; Designing Buildings Wiki

Wood and affordable housing

2017-07-10T11:45:31Z

Wood for Good:

[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:Wood_for_Good Wood for Good] shares 10 reasons why timber offsite construction could be the answer to affordable housing.

There has been a lot of buzz about so-called prefabs recently, with various reports calling for enhanced use of offsite construction to speed up housing delivery. Key advantages of timber offsite construction include proven performance, reduced costs both on associations’ and residents’ sides, and faster asset value. With financial and political support for accelerated construction, this is a route worth investigating for development teams, asset and finance managers alike.

Here are 10 facts why timber offsite construction might provide the right solution for affordable housing.

=== Proven performance and new possibilities ===

* Offsite construction is a proven feature of millions of affordable new homes in the UK – it’s quick to build without compromising quality. Timber construction accounts for more than 25% of all dwellings in the UK.
* Timber is a natural, renewable, and sustainable building material. Engineered timber also embodies all these environmental benefits. Just one of the reasons why the use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) as a structural system is one of the fastest-growing construction methods in many parts of Europe and Asia.
* Advances in timber technology have resulted in its use for multi-storey buildings such as Bridport House, a social housing scheme in Hackney, assembled in just 10 weeks.

=== Reducing costs and creating faster asset value ===

* While broadly cost comparative with traditional building methods, the build times for timber construction are up to 30% faster than for other materials. Such fast construction reduces time onsite and the disruption this causes to a local area, speeds up practical completion and handover, and enables an earlier rental income stream.
* Research into offsite construction shows that costs can be more carefully controlled, waste is reduced by up to 90% and fewer defects helps to reduce snagging costs by up to 80%.
* Offsite construction is also safer, reducing the risk of onsite worker injury by up to 80%.

=== Reducing fuel poverty ===

* Timber offsite construction is one of the most energy efficient methods of building homes, using a material with negative carbon emissions and low embodied carbon. Timber products in the built environment lead the way in terms of lifecycle assessment and Environmental Product Declarations. Building with timber can reduce energy bills by 90%.
* Timber offsite construction enables significant thermal efficiency, with operational energy costs kept to a minimum. Offsite designers can also better incorporate renewable energy solutions such as ground-source heat pumps and heat recovery ventilation from the start, which can lead to further dramatic reductions in fuel bills to housing associations’ tenants.

=== Financial and political support for accelerated construction ===

* Mortgage funding and new build warranties are readily provided to timber offsite construction housing developments. BOPAS (Build Offsite Property Assurance Scheme) provides assurance to the lending community on homes constructed using innovative methods that they will deliver consistent performance of a determined durability of at least 60 years.
* The Government is committed to supporting accelerated construction: "Offsite construction provides a huge opportunity to increase housing supply and we want to see more innovation like this across the housebuilding sector,” says Gavin Barwell, housing minister.

=== Housing associations which have chosen offsite solutions ===

[https://accordgroup.org.uk/ Accord Group] housing association in the West Midlands is already well practiced at offsite construction – it has produced timber-framed factory built homes since 2011 through its Local Homes division. It currently produces about 200 homes a year with plans to expand significantly. The housing association recently hired a manufacturing expert from Jaguar Land Rover to run the plant – confirming that it's the blend of this timber engineering and manufacturing skill that can best support the housing expertise in local communities.

[https://www.liverpoolmutualhomes.org/ Liverpool Mutual Homes] is building 33 two and three-bedroom homes at Naylorsfield Drive in Liverpool, using timber prefabricated modules manufactured in factory conditions offsite. The modules, manufactured by Bowsall using a timber frame panel system, are transported to site and then craned into place. Designed by JDA Architects, all the homes provide higher than usual energy efficiency to help cut tenants’ fuel bills.

[http://www.swan.org.uk/ Swan Housing], a housing association in Essex, has chosen to use CLT systems and offsite construction, building homes which are indistinguishable from ones that are built using more traditional methods. Swan is investing £3m in building its own 18,000 sq ft factory in Basildon. It’s designed to provide new homes for the £200m Craylands estate regeneration programme. Their housing modules will be pre-fitted with doors and windows, and once on site the homes are clad and roofed. John Synnuck, Swan's chief executive, says: "At Swan we understand the desperate need for quality new homes. We believe that offsite construction methods will enable us to deliver these much-needed homes quickly, designed to a high specification and with reduced impact on both residents and the environment."

Published by [https://woodforgood.com/ Wood for Good]

Sources: Structural Timber Association, Karakusevic-Carson Architects, Construction Industry Council, Swan Housing, Liverpool Mutual Homes, Accord Housing, Inside Housing, Building Society Association

[[Category:Research_/_Innovation]]

Wood, health and wellbeing

2017-07-10T11:44:20Z

Wood for Good:

[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:Wood_for_Good Wood for Good] shares key facts about the role timber can play in health and wellbeing in buildings.

Most of us spend 90% of their time indoors. Yet buildings still being designed today can create issues like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and lung disease. Choosing the right materials to create healthy homes is becoming ever more important as the UK is set to build 200,000 new homes per year.

In a recent survey:

* 90% of respondents said they wanted a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing and a third would pay more for a healthy home.

* 67% of social renters want a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing.

* 85% of respondents who are willing to pay more for an environmentally-friendly home would also be willing to pay more for a healthy home.

* In contrast, 47% of those willing to pay more for a healthy home would pay more for an environmentally-friendly home.

== Increasing cognitive abilities ==

Cognitive abilities increase by 61% when in a green building. This increases to 101% when additional ventilation rates are introduced.

A study conducted in 2010 in an Austrian school compared two ‘timber’ classrooms versus two ‘standard’ classrooms. The benefits for children studying in the timber classrooms were impressive, especially their heart rates, which were lowered by up to 8600 heartbeats. The children were noticeably more relaxed and it had a positive effect on their performance too. There was also a decreased perception of stress.

A Japanese study found exposure to wooden panels significantly decreases blood pressure, while exposure to steel panels makes it rise.

Another Japanese study carried out in a care home found by providing wooden tables, chairs and tableware, the interaction between residents increased.

== Reducing stress ==

Workers in offices with wooden interiors conveyed feelings of innovation, energy and comfort. Workers in offices without wood conveyed feelings of their environment being impersonal and uncomfortable.

Wood products in a room have also been shown to improve indoor air quality by moderating humidity.

The reason wood has such a good effect on human health is because of how it lowers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation. SNS is what causes stress responses, increases blood pressure, heart rate and inhibits functions like digesting, recovery and repair. When surrounded by nature and wood, these symptoms lower.

Published by [https://woodforgood.com/ Wood for Good]

Sources: York University; Saint-Gobain MultiComfort, Human Research Austria, Stommel Haus, Make it Wood, Wood 100

[[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood and hybrid structures

2017-07-10T11:41:15Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Hybrid structures combine the best properties of each material used in construction to achieve efficient solutions for complex designs. [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki..."

Hybrid structures combine the best properties of each material used in construction to achieve efficient solutions for complex designs. [https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:Wood_for_Good Wood for Good] shares 10 key facts about wood and hybrid structures.

* Many buildings don’t suit the ‘one size fits all’ criteria. This applies to building materials too. Hybrid construction takes the best qualities from each material. 

* Wood is used extensively in construction yet sometimes it’s necessary to combine wood with other materials such as steel or concrete; creating a hybrid structure. 

* Hybrid construction is particularly common when building large or tall structures such as apartment blocks, offices, visitor centres or schools to provide extra structural support. 

* Timber engineered wood products feature heavily in hybrid structures, including Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) and Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL). 

* Hybrid structures often result in aesthetically pleasing, cost effective, and sustainable buildings. Designs can be as simple or complex as needed. Hybrid construction is particularly beneficial for more complex designs. 

* Hybrid structures are often made up of elements constructed offsite. Offsite construction means faster build times and is well received in built up areas as it creates less disruption, noise and mess. 

* Hybrid structures achieve structural efficiency and often a reduction in carbon footprint. Hybrid structures are an economical, architectural, sustainable and structurally feasible alternative. Initial costs may seem high but the speed of construction balances this out. 

* Wood is great for compression and steel is great for tension. When combined, they can make a very sturdy building. 

* A common use of wood in hybrid structures is a timber roof structure on steel panels or timber floor panels with a steel structural frame (an alternative to concrete). Wood and steel can be left exposed, creating a beautiful structure. 

* Wood and concrete work well together with concrete often providing the foundations and service cores. Waste materials can be included within concrete mix and using precast concrete aids the speed of the construction process.

Published by [https://woodforgood.com Wood for Good]

Sustainably procuring tropical hardwood

2017-07-10T11:26:59Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:Wood_for_Good Wood for Good] shares a few key things to keep in mind when procuring tropical hardwoods. === What is tropical hard..."

[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:Wood_for_Good Wood for Good] shares a few key things to keep in mind when procuring tropical hardwoods.

=== What is tropical hardwood? ===

Tropical hardwood comes from continents surrounding the Equator; mainly Central and West Africa, Southeast Asia and South America. Collectively, these forests contain 47% of the total global growing stock.

Popular tropical hardwood sourced from these areas include Iroko, African Mahogany, Sipo and Sapele (Africa); Dark Red Meranti, Bangkirai and Teak (Southeast Asia); Ipe and Massaranduba (Latin America).

=== How are forests sustainably managed in the tropics? ===

Sustainable management protects tropical forests from the risks of illegal logging or being used for other purposes such as soy, palm oil and beef production which rapidly leads to deforestation.

It’s estimated that using tropical forests for these purposes causes half of all global deforestation. This is why the effort that goes into sustainable forest management is so worthwhile and is protecting the future of tropical forests. The timber and forestry industries go to great lengths to put sustainable forest management in place and it is steadily increasing.

In addition to ensuring the forest is sustainably managed, local communities benefit from employment in the forestry industry. Across Central and West Africa, Southeast Asia and South America over two million people are employed.

Sustainable forest management involves:

* Approval of a forest management plan
* Certified VLC status
* Full FSC/PEFC certification status

=== How is this being addressed globally? ===

The United Nations programme for [http://redd.unfccc.int/ Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation] (REDD+) offers incentives to developing countries to reduce deforestation and forest degradation while improving conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks.

Worldwide there are forest certification systems such as the [https://www.pefc.org/certification-services/forest Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification] (PEFC) and the [http://www.fsc-uk.org/en-uk/business-area/procurement Forest Stewardship Council] (FSC) which aim to protect biodiversity, ecosystem services, local employment, and indigenous peoples’ rights within the forest.

Countries around the world importing tropical hardwood are working more closely with export countries. This collaborative working is imperative to strengthening the traceability of timber and progressing sustainable forest management.

=== What’s being done in the UK? ===

In Europe, the [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-timber-regulation-guidance-for-business-and-industry EU Timber Regulation] (EUTR) prohibits the placing of illegally harvested timber on the European market. This means there must be a record of the supplier, the product’s timber species, where it comes from, the amount bought, and a risk assessment on the product. The [https://www.gov.uk/guidance/flegt Forest Law Enforcement, Government and Trade] (FLEGT) action plan aims to reduce illegal logging by strengthening sustainable and legal forest management, improving governance and promoting trade in legally produced timber.

There are also [http://www.euflegt.efi.int/vpa Voluntary Partnership Agreements] (VPA), which are legally binding trade agreements between the European Union and a timber-producing country outside the EU to ensure timber products come from a legal source.

=== What certification and verification schemes are out there? ===

Verified Legal Compliance schemes (VLCs) work in partnership with timber regulations that require companies sourcing timber to have a due diligence system in place. They ensure all the administrative requirements have been completed; that any applicable and relevant laws and regulations related to forestry have been met; and checks forest management processes. The predominant VLCs are run by the [http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/business/forestry/verification/legal Rainforest Alliance] (SmartWood) and [http://www.bureauveritas.com/services+sheet/olb-certification_14483 Bureau Veritas] (OLB) and are particularly important in West and Central Africa.

In Southeast Asia, the Malaysian Timber Certification Council (MTCC) set up a scheme, the [http://www.mtc.com.my/resources-MalaysianTimberCertificationScheme.php Malaysian Timber Certification Scheme] (MTCS), which is the first of its kind in the region to be endorsed by PEFC.

TRADA operates its own [http://www.exovabmtrada.com/en-gb/certification/supply-chain-certification/forest-products chain of custody scheme] for forest products that aren’t FSC or PEFC certified. It recognises other certification schemes such as MTCC and verification schemes such as Bureau Veritas’ OLB, FLEGT, and the Rainforest Alliance VLC.

These schemes determine whether the product complies with policies such as EUTR proving they are legal and progressing towards sustainability.

=== How you can help ===

Check to make sure the timber or timber products you source are legal by putting in place a procurement policy enforcing a preference for certified timber and timber products. This makes sure it is responsibly, lawfully and sustainably sourced and contributes to the good work being done to ensure both the forest and local area are not at risk of environmental, economic or social damage.

Have enhanced due diligence systems in place when timber and timber products cannot be certified. The supplier you use should still be able to verify the source. Be vigilant about the risks of illegal timber in your supply chain.

Published by [https://woodforgood.com Wood for Good]

Sources: Rainforest Alliance, Bureau Veritas, Proforest, Danzer, Mongabay, FAO, International Timber, PEFC, EU FLEGT Facility, TRADA, FSC, Proforest

[[Category:Research_/_Innovation]]

Wood and affordable housing

2017-07-10T11:20:22Z

Wood for Good:

Wood and affordable housing

2017-07-10T11:18:59Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:Wood_for_Good Wood for Good] shares 10 reasons why timber offsite construction could be the answer to affordable housing. There h..."

Wood, health and wellbeing

2017-07-10T11:11:39Z

Wood for Good:

[https://www.designingbuildings.co.uk/wiki/User:Wood_for_Good Wood for Good] shares key facts about health and wellbeing in buildings and the role timber can play.

Most of us spend 90% of their time indoors. Yet buildings still being designed today can create issues like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and lung disease. Choosing the right materials to create healthy homes is becoming ever more important as the UK is set to build 200,000 new homes per year.

In a recent survey:

* 90% of respondents said they wanted a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing and a third would pay more for a healthy home.

* 67% of social renters want a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing.

* 85% of respondents who are willing to pay more for an environmentally-friendly home would also be willing to pay more for a healthy home.

* In contrast, 47% of those willing to pay more for a healthy home would pay more for an environmentally-friendly home.

== Increasing cognitive abilities ==

Cognitive abilities increase by 61% when in a green building. This increases to 101% when additional ventilation rates are introduced.

A study conducted in 2010 in an Austrian school compared two ‘timber’ classrooms versus two ‘standard’ classrooms. The benefits for children studying in the timber classrooms were impressive, especially their heart rates, which were lowered by up to 8600 heartbeats. The children were noticeably more relaxed and it had a positive effect on their performance too. There was also a decreased perception of stress.

A Japanese study found exposure to wooden panels significantly decreases blood pressure, while exposure to steel panels makes it rise.

Another Japanese study carried out in a care home found by providing wooden tables, chairs and tableware, the interaction between residents increased.

== Reducing stress ==

Workers in offices with wooden interiors conveyed feelings of innovation, energy and comfort. Workers in offices without wood conveyed feelings of their environment being impersonal and uncomfortable.

Wood products in a room have also been shown to improve indoor air quality by moderating humidity.

The reason wood has such a good effect on human health is because of how it lowers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation. SNS is what causes stress responses, increases blood pressure, heart rate and inhibits functions like digesting, recovery and repair. When surrounded by nature and wood, these symptoms lower.

Published by [https://woodforgood.com/ Wood for Good]

[[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood, health and wellbeing

2017-07-04T16:40:36Z

Wood for Good:

Most of us spend 90% of their time indoors. Yet buildings still being designed today can create issues like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and lung disease. Choosing the right materials to create healthy homes is becoming ever more important as the UK is set to build 200,000 new homes per year.

In a recent survey:

* 90% of respondents said they wanted a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing and a third would pay more for a healthy home.

* 67% of social renters want a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing.

* 85% of respondents who are willing to pay more for an environmentally-friendly home would also be willing to pay more for a healthy home.

* In contrast, 47% of those willing to pay more for a healthy home would pay more for an environmentally-friendly home.

== Increasing cognitive abilities ==

Cognitive abilities increase by 61% when in a green building. This increases to 101% when additional ventilation rates are introduced.

A study conducted in 2010 in an Austrian school compared two ‘timber’ classrooms versus two ‘standard’ classrooms. The benefits for children studying in the timber classrooms were impressive, especially their heart rates, which were lowered by up to 8600 heartbeats. The children were noticeably more relaxed and it had a positive effect on their performance too. There was also a decreased perception of stress.

A Japanese study found exposure to wooden panels significantly decreases blood pressure, while exposure to steel panels makes it rise.

Another Japanese study carried out in a care home found by providing wooden tables, chairs and tableware, the interaction between residents increased.

== Reducing stress ==

Workers in offices with wooden interiors conveyed feelings of innovation, energy and comfort. Workers in offices without wood conveyed feelings of their environment being impersonal and uncomfortable.

Wood products in a room have also been shown to improve indoor air quality by moderating humidity.

The reason wood has such a good effect on human health is because of how it lowers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation. SNS is what causes stress responses, increases blood pressure, heart rate and inhibits functions like digesting, recovery and repair. When surrounded by nature and wood, these symptoms lower.

[[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood, health and wellbeing

2017-07-04T16:40:21Z

Wood for Good:

Wood, health and wellbeing

2017-07-04T16:40:06Z

Wood for Good:

Wood, health and wellbeing

2017-07-04T16:39:15Z

Wood for Good:

Most of us spend 90% of their time indoors. Yet buildings still being designed today can create issues like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and lung disease. Choosing the right materials to create healthy homes is becoming ever more important as the UK is set to build 200,000 new homes per year.

In a recent survey:

* 90% of respondents said they wanted a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing and a third would pay more for a healthy home.
* 67% of social renters want a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing
* 85% of respondents who are willing to pay more for an environmentally-friendly home would also be willing to pay more for a healthy home
* In contrast, 47% of those willing to pay more for a healthy home would pay more for an environmentally-friendly home

== Increasing cognitive abilities ==

Cognitive abilities increase by 61% when in a green building. This increases to 101% when additional ventilation rates are introduced.

A study conducted in 2010 in an Austrian school compared two ‘timber’ classrooms versus two ‘standard’ classrooms. The benefits for children studying in the timber classrooms were impressive, especially their heart rates, which were lowered by up to 8600 heartbeats. The children were noticeably more relaxed and it had a positive effect on their performance too. There was also a decreased perception of stress.

A Japanese study found exposure to wooden panels significantly decreases blood pressure, while exposure to steel panels makes it rise.

Another Japanese study carried out in a care home found by providing wooden tables, chairs and tableware, the interaction between residents increased.

== Reducing stress ==

Workers in offices with wooden interiors conveyed feelings of innovation, energy and comfort. Workers in offices without wood conveyed feelings of their environment being impersonal and uncomfortable.

Wood products in a room have also been shown to improve indoor air quality by moderating humidity.

The reason wood has such a good effect on human health is because of how it lowers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation. SNS is what causes stress responses, increases blood pressure, heart rate and inhibits functions like digesting, recovery and repair. When surrounded by nature and wood, these symptoms lower.

[[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood, health and wellbeing

2017-07-03T14:02:27Z

Wood for Good:

Most of us spend 90% of their time indoors. Yet buildings still being designed today can create issues like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and lung disease. Choosing the right materials to create healthy homes is becoming ever more important as the UK is set to build 200,000 new homes per year.

In a recent survey:

* 90% of respondentssaid they wanted a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing and a third would pay more for a healthy home.
* 67% of social renters want a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing

* 85% of respondents who are willing to pay more for an environmentally-friendly home would also be willing to pay more for a healthy home

* In contrast, 47% of those willing to pay more for a healthy home would pay more for an environmentally-friendly home

== Increasing cognitive abilities ==

Cognitive abilities increase by 61% when in a green building. This increases to 101% when additional ventilation rates are introduced.

A study conducted in 2010 in an Austrian school compared two ‘timber’ classrooms versus two ‘standard’ classrooms. The benefits for children studying in the timber classrooms were impressive, especially their heart rates, which were lowered by up to 8600 heartbeats. The children were noticeably more relaxed and it had a positive effect on their performance too. There was also a decreased perception of stress.

A Japanese study found exposure to wooden panels significantly decreases blood pressure, while exposure to steel panels makes it rise.

Another Japanese study carried out in a care home found by providing wooden tables, chairs and tableware, the interaction between residents increased.

== Reducing stress ==

Workers in offices with wooden interiors conveyed feelings of innovation, energy and comfort. Workers in offices without wood conveyed feelings of their environment being impersonal and uncomfortable.

Wood products in a room have also been shown to improve indoor air quality by moderating humidity.

The reason wood has such a good effect on human health is because of how it lowers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation. SNS is what causes stress responses, increases blood pressure, heart rate and inhibits functions like digesting, recovery and repair. When surrounded by nature and wood, these symptoms lower. [[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood, health and wellbeing

2017-07-03T14:01:10Z

Wood for Good:

Most of us spend 90% of their time indoors. Yet buildings still being designed today can create issues like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and lung disease. Choosing the right materials to create healthy homes is becoming ever more important as the UK is set to build 200,000 new homes per year.

In a recent survey:

* 90% of respondentssaid they wanted a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing and a third would pay more for a healthy home.
* 67% of social renters want a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing

* 85% of respondents who are willing to pay more for an environmentally-friendly home would also be willing to pay more for a healthy home

* In contrast, 47% of those willing to pay more for a healthy home would pay more for an environmentally-friendly home

== Increasing cognitive abilities ==

Cognitive abilities increase by 61% when in a green building. This increases to 101% when additional ventilation rates are introduced.

A study conducted in 2010 in an Austrian school compared two ‘timber’ classrooms versus two ‘standard’ classrooms. The benefits for children studying in the timber classrooms were impressive, especially their heart rates, which were lowered by up to 8600 heartbeats. The children were noticeably more relaxed and it had a positive effect on their performance too. There was also a decreased perception of stress.

 
A Japanese study found exposure to wooden panels significantly decreases blood pressure, while exposure to steel panels makes it rise.

 
Another Japanese study carried out in a care home found by providing wooden tables, chairs and tableware, the interaction between residents increased.

== Reducing stress ==

Workers in offices with wooden interiors conveyed feelings of innovation, energy and comfort. Workers in offices without wood conveyed feelings of their environment being impersonal and uncomfortable.

 
Wood products in a room have also been shown to improve indoor air quality by moderating humidity.

 
The reason wood has such a good effect on human health is because of how it lowers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation. SNS is what causes stress responses, increases blood pressure, heart rate and inhibits functions like digesting, recovery and repair. When surrounded by nature and wood, these symptoms lower.

[[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]

Wood, health and wellbeing

2017-07-03T14:00:34Z

Wood for Good: Created page with "Most of us spend 90% of their time indoors. Yet buildings still being designed today can create issues like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and lung disease. Choosi..."

Most of us spend 90% of their time indoors. Yet buildings still being designed today can create issues like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), depression and lung disease. Choosing the right materials to create healthy homes is becoming ever more important as the UK is set to build 200,000 new homes per year.

In a recent survey:

* 90% of respondentssaid they wanted a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing and a third would pay more for a healthy home.
* 67% of social renters want a home that doesn’t compromise their health and wellbeing 

* 85% of respondents who are willing to pay more for an environmentally-friendly home would also be willing to pay more for a healthy home 

* In contrast, 47% of those willing to pay more for a healthy home would pay more for an environmentally-friendly home

== Increasing cognitive abilities ==

Cognitive abilities increase by 61% when in a green building. This increases to 101% when additional ventilation rates are introduced.

A study conducted in 2010 in an Austrian school compared two ‘timber’ classrooms versus two ‘standard’ classrooms. The benefits for children studying in the timber classrooms were impressive, especially their heart rates, which were lowered by up to 8600 heartbeats. The children were noticeably more relaxed and it had a positive effect on their performance too. There was also a decreased perception of stress. 

A Japanese study found exposure to wooden panels significantly decreases blood pressure, while exposure to steel panels makes it rise. 

Another Japanese study carried out in a care home found by providing wooden tables, chairs and tableware, the interaction between residents increased.

== Reducing stress 
==

Workers in offices with wooden interiors conveyed feelings of innovation, energy and comfort. Workers in offices without wood conveyed feelings of their environment being impersonal and uncomfortable. 

Wood products in a room have also been shown to improve indoor air quality by moderating humidity. 

The reason wood has such a good effect on human health is because of how it lowers the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation. SNS is what causes stress responses, increases blood pressure, heart rate and inhibits functions like digesting, recovery and repair. When surrounded by nature and wood, these symptoms lower.

[[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Products_/_components]]