Decarbonization, bioarchitecture, circular economy, and forest valorization were the key topics of a conference organized by Assolegno of FederlegnoArredo and AFI (Italian Forestry Association). The event brought together industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers to discuss the role of wood in sustainable construction and its economic and environmental benefits.
“We must encourage short supply chains, enhance local wood, and reduce dependence on imports to strengthen the entire sector,” stated Claudio Giusti, president of Assolegno. He emphasized that wood not only reduces emissions by capturing CO₂ through photosynthesis but is also a renewable and recyclable resource, making it a cornerstone of the circular economy.
The conference, titled “The contribution of Italian forests to the decarbonization of construction”, highlighted the strategic role of wood in achieving European sustainability goals. With forests covering 36% of Italy’s land, the country has significant untapped potential. Despite this, 80% of the wood used in Italy is imported, mainly from Austria and Germany.
Institutional representatives, including Vannia Gava, Italian Deputy Minister of Environment, and Maurizio Martina, Deputy Director-General of FAO, reiterated the importance of protecting forests and promoting bioarchitecture as a key solution for climate efficiency and territorial preservation.
Industry experts such as Emanuele Ferraloro (Federcostruzioni) and Ornella Iuorio (Politecnico di Milano) stressed the need for collaboration between institutions, businesses, and professionals to accelerate the transition to sustainable construction.
To further explore the potential of wood in green building, Assolegno has contributed to the LIFE BE-WoodEN project, launching a podcast dedicated to wood as the material of the future, covering topics such as urban regeneration, CO₂ reduction, and the circular economy over eight episodes.
