There’s almost no source of carbon emissions that is more overlooked than buildings. Beyond the monstrous amount of energy and resources that go into building skyscrapers out of concrete and steel, it also requires a ton of energy to cool and heat those same buildings.
Part of the problem with modern skyscrapers is that the glass facades are super inefficient, allowing heat to exit in the cold months and heat to enter in the warmer months. That’s why we need to talk about wood, arguably one of the best tools architects and engineers have for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and soaring carbon in our buildings.
Building skyscrapers out of wood might sound like a giant fire hazard, but new technology allows us to manufacture wood that is both extremely durable and fire-resistant. According to the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies, switching to wood would reduce the emissions from the construction industry by up to 31 percent. Plus, how beautiful would it be to see more natural-looking skyscrapers dotting the skyline?
Not sold on the idea of wood skyscrapers just yet? Check out this video that builds a pretty good for wooden skyscrapers.
