Australia’s most sustainable building timbers are fast-growing, locally sourced plantation timbers and engineered products that act as carbon sinks. Top choices include Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), Glulam (GLT), FSC-certified Plantation Pine and durable native hardwoods like Spotted Gum and Ironbark.
Engineered Wood Products (Mass Timber): CLT and Glulam are leading sustainable timber construction products. They offer high strength-to-weight ratios, carbon sequestration and reduced onsite construction time. Engineered wood products are replacing traditional steel and concrete in multi-residential and commercial projects.
Australian Plantation Treated Pine: Widely available and highly sustainable, treated plantation pine is ideal for framing. It’s also durable against pests and rot.
Native Australian Hardwoods: Spotted Gum and Ironbark are exceptionally durable, termite-resistant and suitable for structural, decking and cladding applications. Sustainable, fire-resistant hardwoods are favoured for bushfire-prone areas.
Accoya Timber: Highly durable and sourced from sustainably managed forests, Accoya offers long-lasting, low-maintenance options for cladding and joinery.
Recycled and Reclaimed Timber: Using reclaimed timber remains a top choice for reducing environmental impact and adding character to building projects.
Carbon Sequestration: Timber captures carbon while growing, transforming buildings into carbon sinks.
Locally Sourced: Using Australian-grown timber reduces transportation emissions.
Durability: Materials like treated pine and hardwoods reduce the need for premature replacement, lowering long-term resource consumption.
Certification: PEFC (Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) or FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification ensures the timber is sourced from sustainably managed forests.
PEFC is excellent for supporting local, sustainable Australian forestry.
FSC is often specifically requested by building practitioners aiming for top-tier environmental certifications.