Life-cycle assessment (LCA) studies performed in the last decade on the use of cross-laminated
timber (CLT) to construct multi-storey buildings – instead of more conventional steel and
concrete – show a 40% reduction in carbon footprint.[1]
Advantages of using CLT include its low environmental impacts, its high strength-to-weight
ratio, its ease of installation and its aesthetic appeal.
CLT stores carbon during its service life. The panels can then be reused or recycled. (Being a
relatively new technology, ClT buildings are still within their service life so how much reuse
or recycling will be practicable is yet unknown.)
CLT has been associated with a 30% reduction in construction time [2].