Recent research from Bangladesh has shed light on the potential of harvested wood and processing residues to combat climate change, particularly in the Chattogram area. Conducted by Tarit Kumar Baul from the Institute of Forestry and Environmental Sciences at the University of Chittagong, the study highlights the significant role that wood products can play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, a topic that has previously received little attention in the region.
The study focused on the substitution impacts of sawn wood and associated processing residues, revealing that sawmills and timber merchants are the largest consumers of timber, with an average annual consumption of 783.95 cubic meters. In contrast, furniture manufacturers consumed significantly less, averaging only 60.56 cubic meters. Notably, the processing of round logs resulted in a substantial generation of residues, accounting for 36% of the total mass processed from sawmilling to furniture manufacturing.
One of the key findings of the research is the considerable avoided emissions associated with wood products. For instance, the use of sawn wood in building construction led to the highest estimated avoided emissions of 1,029.51 metric tons of CO2 per industry per year. This demonstrates that not only does harvested wood serve as a viable alternative to non-wood materials like steel and plastic, but it also offers a pathway to lower fossil fuel emissions.
Baul emphasized the importance of developing efficient wood products with long lifespans, stating, “The development of efficient products with long lifespans, in addition to factors such as forest management, emissions, waste generation, and life cycle assessments of products likely play a significant role in determining the overall impact on displacement factors.” This indicates a clear opportunity for businesses in the energy sector to invest in sustainable wood product development, which can contribute to both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
The research also included a perception-based study, which revealed that both consumers and sellers view wood furniture and processing residues as attractive substitutes for non-wood materials and fossil fuels. Baul noted, “Wood products were perceived as user-and-environment-friendly and attractive.” This positive perception can drive market demand for sustainable wood products, creating commercial opportunities for companies engaged in the wood and energy sectors.
To fully harness these opportunities, the study suggests that future research should integrate material flow analysis with life cycle assessments to develop country-specific displacement factors. Such insights could further inform policy and commercial strategies aimed at promoting sustainable practices within the construction and energy sectors.
This research, published in “Cleaner and Responsible Consumption,” underscores the potential of harvested wood and processing residues as effective tools for climate change mitigation, while also presenting significant commercial opportunities for the energy sector in Bangladesh and beyond.
