Choosing wood can help tackle climate change.
There are many aspects to sustainability, and the materials we choose for our houses, furniture and other items we buy can make a difference. Choosing wood is naturally better for our environment because it helps with climate change in two important ways.
First, growing trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, release the oxygen and store the carbon. In fact, trees do it so efficiently that about half the dry weight of a tree is carbon. This carbon remains ‘locked up’ for the whole of the life of the wood even when we use it for building products or furniture. It is released into the atmosphere again only when the wood decays or is burnt.
Second, forestry is one of the most greenhouse-friendly sectors of the Australian economy. According to a Federal Government survey in 2005 when the Federal Government forestry was the only industry sector to be carbon positive.
So using more sustainably sourced wood will help Australia to offset overall greenhouse gas emissions.
What’s more, wood is a truly renewable resource because millions of new trees are planted each year and Australia has a well-established framework to support the conservation and sustainable management of our forests.
So when we choose carbon positive wood for house frames, flooring, or furniture we’re also lending a helping hand in climate change. To find out more visit us at www.naturallybetter.com.au
