The UK timber industry releases a manifesto promising to “unlock wave of sustainable timber construction” with the next government
Image taken from Timber Development UK
The UK timber industries have launched a new manifesto urging the next Government to initiate policies that will accelerate sustainable timber construction. Published by the Confederation of Timber Industries (CTI), which includes various associations such as Timber Development UK, the manifesto highlights strategic policy changes needed to foster a low-carbon built environment rapidly.
The timber industry in the UK plays a significant economic role, contributing over £10 billion, housing more than 51,000 businesses, and employing over 300,000 individuals in green jobs. According to the Timber in Construction Manifesto, a few targeted policy adjustments could pave the way for swift growth in this sector.
Alex Goodfellow, CTI Chair, emphasized the industry’s readiness to scale up sustainable timber use in construction, citing existing capacity and expertise that align with recommendations from the Climate Change Committee. The manifesto aims to guide the next Government with policy references, such as Part Z — an amendment to building regulations to include embodied carbon — which could be implemented within the first 100 days.
The core policy recommendations are designed to create a level playing field for businesses to build homes while ensuring the UK meets its carbon reduction commitments. Although the recommendations are material-neutral, the CTI advocates for timber frame construction’s competitive edge.
Additional points in the manifesto call for policies to support timber industry businesses, increase tree planting, and demonstrate timber’s readiness to provide sustainable solutions. Examples include long-standing timber frame solutions, the Optoppen approach (adding timber floors to existing buildings), and new sustainable developments like the Phoenix in Lewes.
The CTI encourages industry stakeholders and sustainability advocates to contact their local MPs to support the manifesto.
To download the Timber in Construction Manifesto, visit the MANIFESTO.
Sources:
UK timber industries launch manifesto for next Government to “unlock wave of sustainable timber construction” — TTJ Online
Timber In Construction Manifesto — Timber Development UK
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