Measuring Mass Timber – A mass timber whole life carbon and quality of life method

This study, led by dRMM in collaboration with Edinburgh Napier University and the Quality of Life Foundation, develops a methodology to measure the whole life carbon (WLC) and quality of life (QoL) impacts of mass timber buildings. The research applies this method to five real-world mass timber case studies across the UK, demonstrating how these buildings contribute to decarbonisation and occupant well-being. The report presents key findings on carbon storage, lifecycle emissions, and the biophilic benefits of timber construction, while identifying industry barriers to broader adoption. It provides a replicable framework for future mass timber evaluations, supporting the shift toward more sustainable building practices.

Key takeaways

1. Mass timber offers a decarbonisation solution now. All case studies report significantly lower emissions than ‘business as usual’.
2. Quality of life enhancements have been observed. Particularly exciting is the perception of enhanced connection with nature, although more data will help to build this evidence base to be more representative and wide-reaching.
3. Biogenic storage potential is significant in mass timber buildings. The case studies store carbon equivalent to more than fifty thousand journeys from London to Glasgow in the average UK car01.
4. Building Performance Evaluations and Whole Life Cycle methods are not at present consistently applied, nor conducted widely enough in industry. Best practice, including for biogenic carbon, should be adhered to.
5. Mass timber, whilst providing benefits, is not a standalone solution for decarbonisation and quality of life. Whole life thinking (in every sense) is needed to ensure maximum impact is created from mass timber alongside wider best practice.