The most recent biennial WoodSolutions tracking research has shown that positive perceptions of wood have increased.
Almost two-thirds of respondents thought changes to the National Construction Code (NCC) should be extended — and 90% of specifiers were aware of WoodSolutions.
The latest tracking survey involved nearly 700 development, design and construction professionals involved in the specification of building materials.
The key findings of the research were positive for wood and wood products.
When questioned on the health benefits of wood in living and working spaces, three-quarters of the specifiers were aware of the positive impact of wood on wellbeing, largely due to online content; communications from professional associations; and magazine articles.
Awareness of the 2016 changes to the NCC was high, with the majority of specifiers very supportive of extending changes to other building classes. Almost two-thirds claimed changes should ‘absolutely’ be extended to allow greater use of timber construction in schools, hospitals and aged-care facilities.
When asked to rate wood on a range of attributes, respondents increased the positive ratings in most areas, particularly those relating to acoustics, safety and fire.
Looking ahead, almost two-thirds of the specifiers thought their use of engineered wood would increase in the next 12 months.
Certification schemes are well known, with most people recognising the Australian Forestry Standard (now Responsible Wood) and almost half familiar with the Forest Stewardship Council. Almost two-thirds of the respondents reported that they have used or specified certified wood.
WoodSolutions was a key communications channel, with awareness of the WoodSolutions program growing steadily over the last four years. In fact, nine out of ten specifiers said they were familiar with WoodSolutions’ activities and resources.
