Since my recent article on constructing carbon-storing buildings , many have asked for specifics on carbon-sequestering building materials. Here is a partial list:
• Cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels of varying dimensions made up of alternating layers of perpendicular boards. Because small-diameter trees, pest-damaged trees, and even trees killed by wildfires are used in fabricating these members, forest resources are more fully utilized. In addition to being strong, stiff, stable, and relatively lightweight, CLT panels are highly fire resistant and hinder fire spread. CLT can often be substituted for steel, even in high-rise construction.
• All bamboo building materials. Bamboo is a fast-growing wild grass that takes carbon out of the air faster than other plants. When laminated into posts, beams, glue-lams, and trusses (trade name Lamboo), it rivals the strength ratio of steel yet is more fire resistant without the use of ecologically unfriendly fire retardants.