For centuries, architects, designers, manufacturers, and contractors in India have favoured wood for various applications. This preference has contributed to the growth of the wooden industry. It is encouraging to witness the recent increase in the popularity of timber as a natural and renewable material. The celebration of wood as a biomaterial in the current millennium is intuitive for humans, as wood has played a vital role in shaping our wooden heritage. Legally harvested and certified wood from sustainably-managed forests can reduce global warming and provide various biophilic advantages to occupants. Wood adds warmth and elegance to the environment, making it an excellent choice for construction and design. The International Wood Culture Society promotes World Wood Day to spread awareness of the conscious use of sustainable wood.
World Wood Day 2023
Since 2013, people have celebrated World Wood Day annually on March 21st. The celebration aims to promote wood as an environmentally friendly material for a sustainable environment. It also aims to raise awareness of its value and responsible use. The day, now in its tenth edition, has achieved its goal of creating public awareness of the importance and benefits of wood.
Being one of the earliest materials used for construction and manufacturing a wide range of products, wood has played a fundamental role in the evolution of humankind. The material has served the wooden industry for many years.
Before any objections arise from those who disagree, let’s explore the numerous aspects of wood. The world is recognizing and continuing to uncover its various benefits and applications in the wooden industry.
Biophilic properties of wood
1. Green-friendly: Wooden constructions, such as houses and buildings, have gained popularity as a green-friendly solution to combat harmful environmental impacts by reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
2. Sustainably sourced: Today, the availability of sustainably sourced and certified timber adds to its appeal. Canadian Wood is an excellent example of responsibly sourced wood, traceable to sustainably managed forests in British Columbia (B.C.). It has set a high standard in sustainable forest management. This involves implementing eco-friendly measures to protect, maintain, and improve the forest’s health and ecosystem.
3. Workable & durable: Wood is a versatile material suitable for various applications, including functional and aesthetic, structural, furniture, and artifacts. Additionally, it is durable and resilient, as studies have shown that wood can withstand heat and natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods.
4. Healing aesthetics: The therapeutic impact of wood aesthetics in construction has been a popular topic, particularly in healthcare settings where wood is increasingly used in design elements. Researchers have discovered that wood has a calming effect on the physical and mental well-being of individuals in its vicinity. Studies have demonstrated that wooden interiors can reduce stress levels, increase optimism, and improve productivity by creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
5. Cultural importance: As the world focuses on sustainability, the rekindled appreciation for wood highlights another crucial aspect that aligns with this year’s theme for WWD – “Wood in Cultural Heritage.” Additionally, wood makes up a substantial proportion of heritage sculptures worldwide, which may come as a surprise. Our wooden heritage from the past offers insights into the history, culture, and technology used in a particular region.
Canadian Wood celebrates World Wood Day 2023
Canadian Wood embraces this perspective as it celebrates the many aspects of wood every day. Raising awareness of the significance of timber in cultural heritage can enhance our appreciation of today’s wooden heritage. This can also foster its preservation for future generations.
