Views of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) Manufacturer Representatives around the World on CLT Practices and Its Future Outlook

Abstract

Due to its recent emergence, there is a limited body of global market research available on CLT. Presently, the literature lacks comprehensive understanding regarding the present state, varied uses, and future outlook of CLT construction at a global level. The objective of this article is to address this knowledge gap by conducting semi-structured, in-depth interviews with CLT manufacturer representatives around the world, including Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Japan, Canada, and Uruguay. Critical findings emphasized that (1) the predominant mention was about the insufficient knowledge and experience within construction professionals; (2) a clear need for heightened expertise and training in the domain of CLT was underscored; (3) CLT was regarded as a favorable choice in efforts to combat climate change; (4) CLT was deemed highly appropriate for settings marked by variable climatic conditions; (5) CLT producers, particularly those with comprehensive, vertically integrated operations encompassing the entire processing cycle, remained unaffected by the rise in raw material costs; (6) the COVID-19 pandemic generally yielded positive impacts on the CLT market; (7) primary application of CLT, as emphasized by most manufacturers, is in residential and institutional projects; and (8) most manufacturers noted the expansive and boundless opportunities within the market, especially considering the climate crises as potential future avenues for the utilization of CLT. This article aims to advance the widespread adoption of CLT within the global construction sector. It will achieve this by elucidating the obstacles, possibilities, and forthcoming prospects associated with CLT.

Insights from Finnish Experts on the Construction Practices and Future Prospects of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)

“…Incorporating the results of a global study investigating the viewpoints of CLT manufacturers on current practices and future trends would be highly advantageous within the scientific literature [55]. Our study's findings closely aligned with numerous outcomes observed in the investigation by [55].…”

“…Incorporating the results of a global study investigating the viewpoints of CLT manufacturers on current practices and future trends would be highly advantageous within the scientific literature [55]. Our study's findings closely aligned with numerous outcomes observed in the investigation by [55]. Echoing our research outcomes, a consensus among global CLT manufacturers underscored a widespread acknowledgment of the knowledge and experience gap concerning CLT among construction industry professionals at large.…”

“…As detailed below, a substantial amount of research has been conducted on the CLT industry in the world, but there are limited works on this subject in the Finnish context. Among the featured studies on the CLT sector, Ilgın et al's research [55] delved into the perspectives of international representatives within the CLT manufacturing sphere, including individuals from countries such as Austria, Italy, Czech Republic, Sweden, Japan, Canada, and Uruguay. Their research comprehensively covered their viewpoints on current practices related to CLT and their insights into the prospective trajectory of CLT within the industry.…”

Low-Carbon Emissions and Cost of Frame Structures for Wooden and Concrete Apartment Buildings: Case Study from Finland

“…Presently, there is a growing interest in expanding the utilization of wood in the construction industry [45][46][47]. Various companies, ranging from large corporations to medium-sized enterprises in the construction sector, are diversifying their focus toward wood construction, indicating a strategic shift in their business approach.…”