By Florence ChongJanuary / February 2021 (Magazine) The crucial role that timber plays as an alternative material to concrete, steel and plastics is becoming evident. Florence Chong reports on a fast-evolving global industry Beyond windmills, solar panels and a constant stream of innovation to mitigate carbon emissions in the built environment, many now believe timberland holds the key to a more sustainable world as it shifts towards a circular ‘bio’ economy. Using forests for carbon sequestration is a known path to reducing carbon dioxide, but the crucial role of timber products in helping limit global warming to 1.5°C by 2030 is only now becoming more evident.