The Principles for Responsible Timber Construction have been built on foundations laid by many organisations, over many years. One of the key inspirations was “Securing the Future of Our Forests and Cities” which outlined a set of recommendations for responsible timber sourcing and use, co-authored by Bauhaus Earth, Built by Nature and Pilot Projects. The Principles were informed through consultation with many experts across the value chain and inputs from governments represented in the Forest & Climate Leaders’ Partnership (FCLP) ‘Greening Construction with Sustainable Wood’ Working Group over the course of 2024/25.

The Principles provide a shared framework to guide the transformation responsibly, from forest to building. They are both science-based and practice-led. They were shaped by a diverse group of co-authors and stakeholders, combining evidence from real-world timber construction projects with scientific research. Since COP28, Built by Nature has worked closely with the FCLP, whose 17 member countries launched the Greening Construction with Sustainable Timber initiative. These governments recognise both the opportunity and the risks of scaling timber construction and are now reviewing and advancing policies to support sustainable wood use.

The Principles provide a clear and structured foundation that cities and governments can use to integrate timber construction into climate strategies and building codes. The process includes the development of a Guidance Report and an Implementation Framework, ensuring the Principles are actionable and aligned with decision-making across the value chain. Once this process is completed, there will be tools, case studies, and technical guidance that can inform incentives, pilot projects, and regulatory updates. The campaign also engages directly with policymakers through events and partnerships.

The goal of the Principles implementation is to mainstream responsible timber construction as a key solution for climate, nature, and people. If the Principles are properly established in legislation, regulation, and industry good-practice, they will drive a set of outcomes, including:
– Reducing embodied carbon in buildings
– Supporting sustainable forest management
– Promoting a thriving timber-based bioeconomy
– Informing responsible investment decisions.

Post-COP, the focus will shift to implementation and accountability. We want governments that sign-up to apply the Principles into relevant legislation, whilst industry endorsers will be expected to:
– Refer to the Principles in their construction decisions (2026–2030)
– Apply and adhere to them in practice (from 2030 onwards)
Built by Nature and other organisations affiliated to the project will continue to support stakeholders with tools, case studies,  and active networks that foster knowledge sharing and collaboration. The COP launch marks a pivotal moment; momentum will continue as the Principles are applied, adapted, and scaled across policies, projects, and markets.

You can:
– Endorse the Principles and share your commitment publicly
– Use the Implementation Framework in your projects
– Participate in webinars, workshops, and events
– Share case studies and best practices with us
– Advocate for responsible timber in your networks.

Some individuals and organisations will also be invited to be part of developing the Guidance Report and the Implementation Framework, ensuring the Principles are actionable and aligned with decision-making across the value chain. Those interested in being part of this process should email contact@builtbn.org.