Recycling Timber
Why recycle timber?
The world's forests are under great pressure – forest loss is continuing at 13.7 million hectares a year. Coupled with this, over 8,000 of the world’s tree species are classified as globally threatened with extinction. Logging for the timber trade has been identified as a major factor in the loss of the world's forests and trade also threatens over 1,000 tree species.
Demand for industrial wood, not counting that used for fuelwood or subsistence uses, was predicted to increase by 25% from 1996 to 2010, putting further pressure on the world’s forests and trees in the future. Recycling is one way of reducing our impact, although our greatest means is through reducing what we use and reusing what we have harvested already. (Source: Flora Locale)
What happens to my timber?
The most common use for recycled timber is as a raw material for chipboard manufacture. In 2001, the chipboard industry used approximately 675,000 tonnes of recycled timber. Chipboard and related panel products are progressively replacing solid timber in a number of applications, making a potentially useful contribution to efficient use of timber. Horticultural mulch can also be made from recycled wood. Animal bedding is another option. Surfacing for landfill cover and gallops and compost are other options for wood waste. (Source: Flora Locale)
How can I recycle timber?
Untreated timber can be recycled at your nearest recycling centre.
What timber cannot be recycled?
The recycling centres are unable to accept any form of treated wood for recycling, e.g. painted or varnished wood, or wood with metal fixtures, such as door handles and hinges. Wood that contains small nails is acceptable. Contact your local authority for more information.
