Recognising that the built environment accounts for around 30% of total annual carbon emissions in the UK (as reported by RICS) and the need to mobilise action on climate change, the construction sector is striding forward to meet ambitious net zero carbon goals. The industry is in a period of significant change and new opportunities are emerging, as it works to innovate through developments in construction materials, methods and logistics to contribute to positive environmental impacts.

A key area of focus is the sourcing and use of more sustainable materials to improve the lifecycle of buildings. In this new podcast, we explore how sustainable timber is helping to support this transition away from more traditional approaches and changing the way we design and build. Partner Ben Stansfield and Construction Professional Support Lawyer Emma Knight talk with Andrew Carpenter, Chief Executive of both the Structural Timber Association and Constructing Excellence Midlands, about what is sustainable timber, the response from industry and investors to its use and initiatives to increase more home-grown sustainable timber to help meet net zero goals.