Life Cycle Assessment of Wood as a Sustainable Material: Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Life Cycle Costs

Abstract

With the increasingly serious environmental problems, the use of sustainable materials is particularly important. This study focuses on the greenhouse gas emissions and economic costs of wood over its life cycle as a sustainable resource. We use a systematic life cycle assessment (LCA) approach to assess the entire process from raw material collection, processing, use to disposal. The study found that using wood can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional building materials such as steel and concrete. In addition, although the initial procurement costs of wood may be higher, its maintenance costs are lower in the long run, making the life cycle costs generally more economical. The results of this study highlight the environmental and economic advantages of wood in the selection of sustainable building materials, and provide a scientific basis for promoting the use of wood.