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Being accountable and taking action

If there is one topic today that raises concern worldwide, it is indeed the issue of climate change. Even if the planet’s weather and its variations continue to be widely complex subjects, it is now clear that we are facing changes of such a magnitude that they not only threaten the lives of entire human populations, but also those of many animal and plant species.

The signs are evident and can be currently measured by analyzing data regarding the air temperature at ground level and at the surface layer of oceans, the average rise in sea levels, the melting of glaciers and changes to a number of biological and physical systems. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) pointed out that most of the global warming responsible for these phenomena is due to human activity.

 

It is therefore our lifestyle and the balance between our needs and available resources, which are increasingly seen as extremely fragile, that are being questioned. As a result, it would be irresponsible to do nothing.

 

Wood, naturally

Such a finding and the outcome it suggests demand concrete action. This action can be taken in several areas. Coalition BOIS Québec believes that increasing the use of wood is part of the solution to counteract the negative effects of climate change resulting from higher levels of CO₂ in the atmosphere.

The Coalition also believes that wood can be legitimately considered as the material of the future. Its use leaves but a small environmental footprint because of the very nature of wood manufacturing processes. Furthermore, the use of wood in products such as houses, commercial buildings and furniture, has the effect of removing large quantities of CO₂ from the atmosphere and sequestering it for long periods, therefore reducing global warming.

An environmental review of wood, in a life-cycle analysis for construction projects, confirms the benefits of this material in terms of CO₂ sequestration and also its track record when it comes to releasing pollutants into the air and water, using resources and generating recyclable solid waste.

There are also other major considerations for Quebec’s forest industry and economy. Developing the wood sector, and more specifically that of value-added products, is an opportunity to acquire expertise that will open new markets to Quebec producers. It will also be possible to partially compensate the loss of jobs in the primary processing sector. Lastly, the use of wood in such products will help Quebec producers be less dependent on the American market.

The Coalition is therefore committed to promoting the use of wood and wood products that are certified under a sustainable forest management standard. It also agrees to promote the increased use of wood, whether for structural or appearance purposes, both in residential and non-residential construction.

 

Mission

Coalition BOIS Québec is a forum and key contact point for all stakeholders who not only want to take action against climate change, but also want to support Quebec's economy by increasing the use of wood as a building material. Through its actions, the Coalition will assume a leadership role by fostering a true culture of wood use in Quebec’s construction sector, while creating a network of stakeholders who are able to make a difference.

 

Objectives

1. To highlight the environmental attributes of wood as a material in the fight against climate change.
2. To promote the use of wood for structural and appearance applications in Quebec’s construction sector and facilitate its use among those who make this choice.
3. To position and promote wood in green building and sustainable development concepts.
4. To promote legislation that encourages the use of wood.
5. To encourage the general public and the various industrial, commercial and institutional stakeholders to consider the use of wood (structural and appearance) in their construction and renovation projects.

 

Membership

Any business, association or organization that adheres to the Charter and commitments of Coalition BOIS Québec can become a member.