Through the targeted use of wood in building construction, buildings become long-term CO₂ storage systems, while at the same time avoiding emissions from conventional construction materials such as concrete and steel.
Project standard: Rainbow
Detailed description
The building sector is among the most emissions-intensive sectors of the economy while simultaneously offering one of the greatest potentials for effective climate protection. In particular, the production and use of mineral construction materials such as concrete and steel cause high upstream emissions. Increasing the use of wood and other bio-based materials makes it possible to significantly reduce these emissions while at the same time storing carbon over the long term.
Although the climate benefits of timber construction are well documented, it is still used only to a limited extent in the building sector. In the DACH region, timber construction currently accounts for a relatively small share of new buildings, typically around 3–10%, depending on the country and building typology. The main reasons are higher upfront costs and established construction methods based on mineral materials.
The project addresses this untapped climate potential by making timber construction projects more economically attractive. Financing through CO₂ certificates can help reduce the additional costs associated with timber construction.
CO₂ storage is quantified on a project-specific basis, with each new timber building compared to a geometrically and functionally equivalent reference building (“mineral twin”) made of concrete/steel to ensure a correct baseline. The amount of CO₂ is accounted for conservatively and exclusively for biogenic carbon storage in load-bearing components.
Timber construction projects not only contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also strengthen regional structures, promote innovation in the construction sector, and enhance forest resilience through active management. The use of wood from sustainably managed forests takes place without deforestation or land-use change.
Social and economic benefits
- Regional value creation along the timber and construction value chain
- Long-term revenues for project partners
- Promotion of innovation in timber products and timber construction
Environmental aspects
- Sustainable forest management without deforestation or land-use change
- Reduced risk due to storm damage or pest infestations thanks to active management
- Substitution of particularly emissions-intensive construction materials
