West Fraser report: timber in buildings avoided 19.8 million tonnes of CO2 in 2025

West Fraser's 2025 Sustainability Report estimates that using timber instead of steel and concrete in building design avoided 19.8 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions in 2025. The figure comes from displacement analysis, which measures the emissions saved when renewable, lower-energy materials replace carbon-intensive ones. This matters because buildings' Scope 3 emissions, which include supply chain and material production, often make up the largest part of their carbon footprint. For architects and specifiers, the report provides concrete data to support timber selection as a low-carbon design choice. As whole-life carbon assessments become standard in construction, evidence like this helps meet regulatory requirements and net-zero commitments. The report also highlights that decarbonization depends on smarter material choices, not just technological innovation. The findings reinforce timber as a scalable solution for reducing embodied carbon in buildings. When sourced responsibly, wood products offer a practical pathway to lower emissions while maintaining structural performance. This is especially relevant for addressing Scope 3 emissions, which are often the hardest to reduce in construction projects.