Timber is the only mainstream construction material that stores carbon rather than emitting it. Understanding and communicating carbon storage data gives B2B timber dealers a decisive advantage in sustainability-conscious markets.
Last updated: March 2026
How Timber Stores Carbon
Trees absorb CO2 through photosynthesis, converting it into cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. Approximately 50% of dry timber weight is carbon. When used in construction, this carbon remains locked for the building service life, typically 50 to 100+ years. One cubic metre of Nordic spruce contains approximately 250 kg of carbon, equivalent to 920 kg of CO2 removed from the atmosphere.
Carbon Storage by Product Type
A 20m² garden office (~4m³ timber) stores roughly 3.7 tonnes CO2. A 50m² log cabin with 44mm walls (~8-10m³) stores 7.4-9.2 tonnes. A 100m² glulam house with 135mm walls (~25-30m³) stores 23-28 tonnes. A 200m² two-storey glulam house (50-70m³) stores 46-64 tonnes CO2. For context, the average European generates 6-8 tonnes CO2 per year.
Substitution Effect: The Full Carbon Picture
Each cubic metre of timber replacing concrete or steel avoids an additional 0.9-1.1 tonnes CO2. Combined storage and substitution for a 100m² glulam house: approximately 50 tonnes of positive climate impact. This combined figure is the most compelling number for dealer presentations.
Sustainable Forestry and Carbon Cycles
Carbon storage benefits depend on sustainable forest management. PEFC and FSC certification ensures replanting. Nordic forests grow more timber annually than is harvested. All Eurodita products use PEFC-certified Nordic spruce.
Using Carbon Data in Presentations
Present data visually. Translate CO2 tonnes into relatable equivalents: flights, car journeys, household energy. For tenders, include specific calculations: CO2 stored, CO2 avoided through substitution, and net climate impact versus conventional alternatives.
Carbon Reporting and ESG Frameworks
Timber carbon storage fits GHG Protocol Scope 3, TCFD reporting, and EU Taxonomy frameworks. Understanding these positions dealers as sustainability-literate partners rather than product suppliers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does timber store carbon?
For the entire service life, 50-100+ years. Carbon remains stored if timber is reused. Only combustion or decomposition releases stored carbon.
Is carbon storage recognised in building regulations?
France RE2020 includes dynamic life cycle carbon assessment. The EU Level(s) framework provides methodology for reporting biogenic carbon in construction.
How does glulam compare to solid log for storage?
Similar carbon content per cubic metre (~250 kg C/m³). Glulam uses more timber per square metre due to thicker walls, resulting in higher total storage per building.
Can dealers claim carbon credits?
Currently no tradeable credits, but stored carbon can be reported in corporate sustainability accounts, ESG disclosures, and green building certifications.
What data to include in proposals?
Timber volume (m³), carbon stored (tonnes CO2), carbon avoided (tonnes CO2), total climate benefit, and PEFC chain-of-custody reference.
