Is Wood A Sustainable Material?

Threats to our environment are everywhere, and many of us want to do whatever we can to reduce our carbon footprint. There are many ways to do this in your daily life, but what about when you are working on larger projects such as a home build or remodel? The best way to ensure you are considering the environment when designing your home is by utilizing wood components whenever possible.

Osborne Wood Products, Inc. is a proud manufacturer and distributor of wooden components to cabinetmakers, builders, carpenters, hobbyists and designers around the world. From the beginning, founder Leon Osborne saw the enduring beauty of wood as well as the positive impacts wood furniture has on the environment. Even though the company began in 1979, the focus on supplying everyday consumers as well as business owners with high-quality, ethically-sourced wood products has remained top priority.

The Benefits of Wood as a Material

There are several reasons why wood components are more environmentally-friendly than their alternatives. Let’s take a look at some considerations that should be made when selecting project materials.

Is Wood Sustainable?

Wood is a renewable resource and the wood species options from Osborne are ethically-sourced, meaning they are abundantly available in the United States. According to a study by the National Alliance of Forest Owners (NAFO), the nation’s forests are growing more than enough wood to meet the rising demand. In fact, “private forests had a total GTD [Growth to Drain] ratio of 1.53, indicating growth exceeded removals by 53% between 2011-2019.”

Wood is Carbon Sequestering

On top of availability, wood production uses solar energy unlike other materials such as metal, concrete or plastic. Wood also is carbon sequestering which means that there is a reduction of emissions in the atmosphere when using wood as a building tool. Repurposing wood for furniture, flooring, cabinetry and more is popular among builders who prioritize the reduction of their carbon footprint. By using wood for furniture or building materials, the carbon stays stored within the wood instead of being released into the atmosphere.

Why choose wood?

Wood grain has circled back into modern design, taking its place once again as a preferred aesthetic in the home. Wooden tables, wall panels, flooring, beams and more can be seen in trendy spaces which makes it even more desirable. While the demand grows, wood components may experience rising costs but the wide variety of wood species available nationally provides affordable options for any budget.

The natural beauty of wood is not the only reason it is gaining popularity. Modern designers and architects prioritize biophilic design as well as environmentally-friendly solutions. Wood components are sustainable and carbon sequestering, making them an ideal choice. They are also highly durable which allows wooden furniture to last for generations. The wide variety of wood grains and finishing options allows you to utilize this material in traditional or modern spaces.

Will the rise of wood popularity hurt the forests?

Forest management is particularly successful in the United States. There are over 800 million acres of forest and 60% of that area is privately-owned. Harvesting is regulated to ensure that these forests continue to thrive. Over time, productivity has continued to increase regardless of demand for lumber and wood products. Given the high growth rate compared to the harvest rate, wood remains a sustainable material. Responsible harvesting prevents damage to the soil and surrounding environment which allows trees to easily regrow.

It is also important to understand all of the uses of trees as renewable sources. When a tree is cut down, all elements of the tree can be used including the inner core, limbs, bark and even the sawdust created during manufacturing. The versatility of the tree allows it to benefit way more than just the furniture and timber industries.

Why choose Osborne for wooden components?

Osborne has been supplying decorative wood components for over 45 years and the selection is environmentally friendly wood. The company has maintained a commitment to ethically sourcing hardwood blanks and components for manufacturing or distribution. Whether you want one singular item for your individual space or a large volume for a business project, Osborne is ready to help with hundreds of ready-to-finish profiles available. Wood options include over 14 species, such as Walnut, Red Oak, White Oak, Cherry, Poplar and more.

Explore Our Responsible Wood Products

Our wood products range from small decorative pieces to large statement items that are necessary for a home design. Check out our expansive selection of table legs, corbels, moulding and more. All of our wooden products are available in various unfinished wood species.