As a company committed to resource- and environmentally-friendly practices, we believe it is important to be informed about the materials we use. Where does our construction timber come from? How sustainable is forestry in Germany? Which tree species are most commonly used and for what purposes?
For this reason, we took our entire team to visit the Wohlleben Forest Academy in the Eifel region. It was an interesting experience that gave us valuable insights into forestry in Germany, the state of our forests, and their important role in preventing climate change from a different perspective.
Here are some of the most important insights we gained:
Only 3% of German forests are protected as near-natural "primeval forests." These balanced ecosystems play a crucial role in the regional climate, as they cool the surrounding area and influence weather patterns.
Forestry in Germany relies primarily on monocultures of conifers, especially spruce, as these provide ideal conditions for timber production. However, conifers are not well adapted to their environment, making them more susceptible to environmental conditions and pests.
Throughout Germany, about half of the harvested wood is immediately used for thermal energy, which releases CO2 back into the atmosphere. The second largest portion is used for construction , while a small remainder is used for paper production.
In light of these findings, we respond as follows:
Wood is an excellent building material with undisputed advantages thanks to its renewability and its role in the sustainable use of resources. However, we believe that conscious and careful use of wood is essential to protect forests and preserve natural habitats. For us, this means taking a circular approach to the use of wood, ensuring the sustainability of forestry, and extending the life of products within the circular economy. We want to give preference to the reuse and recycling of existing construction timber of the best possible quality over the extraction of new wood.
In addition, we are committed to the widespread use of renewable thermal energy and green electricity in every new construction and renovation project. Let's use renewable energy sources that contribute to a greener future.
We encourage everyone to explore and deepen their understanding of sustainable forestry and its impact on our environment.
