MPs call for Government to focus on the timber industry

A report launched today by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for the Timber Industries (APPG), highlights the key role timber industries can play in helping the Government meet its targets for housebuilding whilst working to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

As a member of the Confederation of Timber Industries (CTI), the BWF have contributed to this report which highlights how using timber in construction is key to meeting emissions targets. Collectively the APPG urges the Government to implement the recommendations of the Climate Change Committee by increasing the use of timber in construction.

A long-term spending commitment, reform of right-to-buy and building regulations that encourage innovation in construction are amongst the recommendations to the Government made in the report.

In order to meet the skills requirement needed to build more homes, the report recommends that Government should place an increased emphasis on construction apprentices and invest in developing construction courses, bringing together skills development with technological solutions. This is something that the BWF have long been championing. We work with members and education providers on the development of fit-for-purpose apprenticeships, and with schools and colleges to help promote the sector as a highly innovative and rewarding career choice.

Martin Whitfield MP, chair, APPG, said:

“This report addresses an important dilemma governments have: increase housebuilding whilst reducing carbon emissions. The timber industry will provide skilled jobs, it can deliver sustainable and affordable homes and it should be at the forefront of addressing the climate emergency we face.

Housebuilding should be part of an environmental revolution that is firmly integrated into our net-zero emissions targets. Using timber will lock carbon within homes for generations and is considerably more environmentally friendly than other core building materials such as concrete.”

Roy Wakeman OBE, chair of the Confederation of Timber Industries, said:

“We know there is capacity in the industry which can be unlocked with the right policies, regulatory framework, and partnership between the public and private sectors.

By bringing together experts from across the timber supply chain – all the way from the forest to the finished house – we will be able to make an even greater contribution.”

The report follows a UK-wide inquiry the APPG launched to explore how the timber industry can contribute towards solving the housing crisis. For more information, download a copy of the report by clicking here.