There is currently a movement in the building industry to using timber alternatives and recycled products, fuelled by the belief that this is a more environmentally friendly option. The timber industry has released a campaign to address this perception, centred on the following:

Offsetting Greenhouse emissions 

  • Growing trees absorb carbon dioxide (greenhouse gas) from the atmosphere and store the carbon efficiently. The carbon remains locked up for the life of the wood and is only released when the timber decays or is burnt. This is why one of the only effective means of offsetting greenhouse emissions currently involves planting trees.
  • Forestry is one of the most greenhouse-friendly sectors of the Australian economy and was greenhouse positive in 2005. Increased use of timber therefore assists Australia in offsetting overall greenhouse emissions.
Embodied energy

The recycling of materials can produce emissions that offset the benefits of the recycling process. When evaluating building materials, it is important to consider the amount of energy (often derived from finite fossil fuels) that is used in the manufacturing process. Production of wood requires less energy in the harvest, transportation and manufacturing processes than timber alternatives do.

Sustainability and Accountability

The positive aspects of timber use are dependent upon forestry being sustainable and accountable. All timber used in the manufacture of products from Landmark Products is sourced from either Sustainable Hardwood Forests or Native Pine Plantations - both managed by the Australian Government Departments of Primary Industries.

Ultimately timber is a 100% organic product with natural benefits – durability, thermal efficiency and natural versatility. It can be further enhanced with paint or stain to provide a truly beautiful result. In this project a Condamine bridge is built. Condamine bridges are versatile pedestrian and light vehicle bridges, with a choice of concrete or timber decks and a wide range of standard handrail and finish options.

Features

  • Hot dipped galvanised steel beam substructure
  • Choice of hardwood timber, Landgrip, cast-in- situ concrete or asphalt overlay deck surfaces
  • Steel or timber appearance
  • Suitable for flood loading applications
  • Angled lead-in handrail panels at each end