Driving Decarbonization: National Multi-Regional Mass Timber Study

As structural engineers, we believe one path to decarbonization starts with material innovation. Here are the findings of our Mass Timber in Three Regions Comparative Life Cycle Assessment Study, a landmark effort to define the carbon, cost, and constructability benefits of modern timber structures in high-density urban environments.

This study moves beyond theory, presenting a collaborative investigation with partners SCB, Turner Construction, and Olifant. By redesigning real-world buildings in Atlanta, Denver, and Minneapolis, we reveal the tipping point where mass timber becomes the preferred solution for climate-forward developers and builders.

Key Takeaways for Developers and Design Teams
Our research quantifies the dual benefits of mass timber: significantly reduced embodied carbon and dramatically accelerated schedules.

• Climate Impact: In our comparative models, mass timber reduced the structural and enclosure Global Warming Potential (GWP) by up to 42% compared to traditional concrete, steel, or light wood framing. We illustrate how strategic design choices can minimize the carbon footprint locked into the structural system, paving the way for net-zero construction.
• Financial Advantage: While mass timber construction may involve a minor cost premium in the material itself, our analysis shows these costs have the potential to be neutralized by the speed of construction. We documented schedule savings of up to 3.5 months on high-rise structures, translating directly into lower indirect costs and faster project revenue.
• Regional Strategy: The study provides a regional breakdown, demonstrating how local code adoption (e.g., Type IV-A vs. Type IV-B) and supply chain factors influence both cost and constructability.

Links & Presentations

• Explore our Mass Timber portfolio at WoodWorks Innovation Network
• Wood Innovation Grant 'Three Regions Explore Mass Timber' Materials
  • Short Presentation
  • Long Presentation
  • Forest Supply Chain Analysis
  • Download a copy of the WoodWorks Case Study
• Mass Timber Multifamily: Carbon, Cost, and Constructability - a session from the Mass Timber + Conference, October 29, 2025
• Understanding the Cost of Mass Timber: Design, Drivers, and Case Studies - hosted by WoodWorks, September 3, 2025
  • Slide Deck
  • Recorded Presentation
• The Growing Business of Mass Timber and Bio-based Building Materials - hosted by Corona Partners in Philadelphia, November 13, 2024
• Mass Timber Multifamily - part two of a three-part virtual series hosted by Architecture 2030, October 30, 2024