Wood Products: Lower Embodied Energy for Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions
In this article we’ll delve further into the concept of embodied energy in the context of wood products and its implications for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, making wood products more environmentally friendly.
Embodied Energy
Embodied energy refers to the total energy consumed throughout the lifecycle of a product, including its extraction, processing, manufacturing, transportation, and eventual disposal. When we refer to lower embodied energy in wood products, we are emphasising that their production process consumes relatively less energy compared to materials such as concrete, metals, and plastics.
Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The amount of energy consumed during the production of a material is directly related to the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Processes involved in manufacturing materials with high embodied energy, such as concrete and metals, often rely on energy-intensive procedures, which can lead to significant carbon emissions. In contrast, the production of wood products generally requires less energy. This results in fewer greenhouse gas emissions during manufacturing, contributing to a more eco-friendly and sustainable approach to production.
Environmental Friendliness
Lower embodied energy in wood products makes them more environmentally friendly in the sense that they have a reduced carbon footprint. This is a crucial consideration in the efforts to combat climate change. By choosing materials with lower embodied energy, we can minimise the environmental impact of the production process and contribute to a more sustainable and greener future.
The use of wood products in construction, for example, can significantly reduce the carbon emissions associated with the building industry, which is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Wood's lower embodied energy benefits the environment and aligns with the broader goal of transitioning towards more sustainable and energy-efficient production methods. This makes wood a compelling choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint and play a part in addressing climate change.