In a context of environmental concern and limited urban land, the construction industry faces the challenge of providing solutions for the increasing urban population both efficiently and sustainably. Numerous innovations on engineered wood products for multistorey buildings arise as one of the most promising solutions. In this context, various policies have facilitated the development of Tall Wood Buildings (TWBs). Yet, few publications analyse these policies and their influence on specific projects. This research aims to examine the impact of Policy Instruments (PIs) on individual TWBs qualitatively. Data collection is based on documentary review and semi-structured interviews with policymakers and professionals involved in 37 projects across eight countries. This study reveals that numerous TWBs have been facilitated by policies, acting through diverse PIs applied combined or in isolation. Notably, while Regulatory Instruments allowed TWBs in the first place, Research and Development Tools supported their development and approval process. Often, Research and Development Tools subsidised demonstration projects through Economic Instruments, after competitions or applications (Voluntary Policy Tools). Moreover, many Information Tools (e.g. campaigns, technical assessments) complemented other PIs. Remarkably, while some TWBs have become legal and technological precedents, technical information resulting from their development has influenced proposed changes in building codes.
Unfolding" is a pavilion comprised of six lightweight structures designed for the London Design Biennale 2021. "UnFolding" examines the potential for using engineered timber with digital tools to produce flexible interiors. The pavilion is folded through kerfing methods into fractal-based structures. Extensive research, testing and sample fabrication to acquire optimal flexibility of different timber members through kerf patterns was accomplished for the project.
This research aims to evaluate a realistic timber adoption scenario as a way of reducing carbon emissions of construction in Chile and the UK for the period 2020-2050. The study finds that a gradual increase of timber construction could complement the emission reduction targets set by traditional materials, providing the needed carbon storage. This analysis shows the urgency to define the criteria that will allow to account for carbon storage in timber construction as a natural contribution to the Paris agreement. Finally, it is worth highlighting that the construction sector also faces several economic and social problems that need to be addressed urgently. Timber adoption would reduce emissions and at the same time improve health, security, gender gap, precision, speed and working conditions in construction.
This research aims to evaluate a realistic timber adoption scenario as a way of reducing carbon emissions of construction in Chile and the UK for the period 2020-2050. The study finds that a gradual increase of timber construction could complement the emission reduction targets set by traditional materials, providing the needed carbon storage. This analysis shows the urgency to define the criteria that will allow to account for carbon storage in timber construction as a natural contribution to the Paris agreement. Finally, it is worth highlighting that the construction sector also faces several economic and social problems that need to be addressed urgently. Timber adoption would reduce emissions and at the same time improve health, security, gender gap, precision, speed and working conditions in construction.
This working paper is an evidence submitted to the Royal Institution for British Architects that makes the case that the built environment must drastically reduce its carbon emissions to work towards net zero. Here we advocate for climate repair through the built environment by decarbonising UK’s building sector through both improved energy efficiency of buildings and the use of nature‐based solutions, such as engineered timber and natural insulating materials. The UK has the opportunity to lead by example at the upcoming United Nations COP‐26 conference and beyond, as we implement the solutions in the coming years.
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