In recent decades, the world has been facing increasingly apparent consequences of climate change. Global warming, melting glaciers, extreme weather events, and biodiversity loss are just some of the phenomena that highlight the need for joint, coordinated action. A significant step in this direction was the adoption of the Kyoto Protocol – the first global legally binding agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The connection between the Kyoto Protocol and timber construction might not be obvious at first glance, but it is highly important. Wood as a building material has great potential to reduce CO₂ emissions and is becoming an increasingly vital part of European legislation and long-term climate strategies. Let’s explore how wood fits into the story of a sustainable future.
What is the Kyoto Protocol?
The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 and came into force in 2005 as part of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Its main objective is the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (primarily CO₂), which contribute to global warming. The agreement was signed by 192 countries, of which 114 accepted binding commitments.
Main objectives of the Kyoto Protocol:
- In the first commitment period (2008–2012), countries agreed to reduce emissions by an average of 5% compared to 1990 levels.
- In the second period (2013–2020), the target was more ambitious – an 18% reduction.
- The signatory countries together accounted for around 61% of global emissions.
European Legislation and Enhanced Goals
The European Union supported the goals of the Kyoto Protocol and further enhanced them with its own agreements. EU member states and Iceland jointly committed to a 20% reduction in emissions by 2020.
In 2016, the Paris Agreement was signed as an upgrade – the first universal and legally binding climate agreement. It was signed by more than 190 countries. The conditions for its entry into force were met once it was ratified by at least 55 countries accounting for at least 55% of global emissions.
Fairer Distribution of Responsibilities
One key feature of the Kyoto Protocol is the differentiation of goals based on a country’s level of development. More developed nations, which have historically contributed more to pollution, bear stricter commitments. Developing countries are mostly not legally bound, although they are encouraged to take voluntary action.
The Kyoto Protocol and Slovenia
Slovenia successfully met its target during the first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol – reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 7.1%. In the second period (until 2020), the goal for Slovenia was that emissions should not exceed 4% above 2005 levels.
The targets were based on GDP per capita. Developed countries had to reduce emissions, while less developed countries were given more leeway – including Slovenia.
Wood as Part of the Solution: A Substitute for Steel and Concrete
- From an emissions-reduction standpoint, wood is an extremely beneficial construction material. Its use:
- reduces the need for energy-intensive materials like concrete and steel,
- stores carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere,
- promotes sustainable forestry, further lowering the carbon footprint.
A good example of best practice is France, where climate legislation requires minimum shares of wood in the construction of public buildings.
The Construction Directive and Promoting the Use of Wood
The European Construction Directive from 2002 laid the groundwork for sustainable building. Its goals apply to both new and existing buildings and include:
- energy efficiency,
- reduced environmental impact,
- promotion of natural materials like wood.
However, many countries still heavily rely on traditional (non-wood) building materials. It is often mistakenly assumed that steel or concrete is more “green” due to its longevity, but this is not the case when considering the entire life cycle of the material.
Wood and Carbon Footprint Reduction
The environmental benefits of using wood are scientifically proven:
- 1 m³ of wood can absorb about 1 ton of CO₂,
- wood replaces materials that require more energy to produce,
- wooden products store carbon even after the trees are harvested – up until the end of the building or product’s life cycle.
It is essential to consider the full life cycle of materials: production energy, thermal insulation properties, and possibilities for recycling or energy recovery after use.
An Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective Material
Besides environmental benefits, wood is also cost-effective. Its advantages include:
- excellent thermal insulation (lower heating/cooling costs),
- lower construction costs in certain cases,
- easier processing and flexibility in design.
It is no surprise that more and more people are choosing to live in wooden houses – also because of their natural and aesthetic appeal.
Reusing Wood
Wood can be reused multiple times, further reducing environmental impact. Old wooden beams are incorporated into new buildings. Furniture and paneling can be repurposed into new products or even musical instruments. Construction timber is often reused as garden material, fencing, or fuel.
It is Time for Nature-Friendly Decisions
The Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement represent important steps in the global fight against climate change. But government commitments alone are not enough. It’s essential that individuals take action too. Choosing wood – in construction, home furnishing, or even daily products – is a decision in favor of nature.
At Bauta, we are aware of this and are building a better future today through our choice of wood. With our decisions, we raise awareness and help ensure that together, we become just a little kinder to nature and the world we live in, day by day.
