By Blake Jackson
The University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is hosting the Mass Timber in Appalachia Conference on March 14, to explore the growing significance of mass timber in sustainable building practices.
With the global mass timber market expected to reach $3.56 billion by 2030, understanding its benefits is crucial.
The conference will gather experts from architecture, engineering, forestry, construction, and policy to discuss how mass timber can drive economic opportunities in Appalachia and support responsible forest management.
"Mass timber can reduce the overall carbon footprint of a building project, support faster build times and create healthier indoor environments," said Chad Niman, forest products research specialist. “Mass timber also allows us to offset the impacts of building by using more wood and managing our forests. This is especially important in western US forests to reduce catastrophic wildfire."
Mass timber's ability to sequester carbon, meet stringent fire and structural codes, and stimulate job creation aligns with sustainability goals.
Participants will tour UK’s Innovation District and Gray Design Building, showcasing real-world mass timber applications.
Keynote speaker Jeremy Smith, design director at Irving Smith Architects, will share his "soft architecture" approach, recognized globally. Smith's work focuses on buildings that adapt to changing environments.
Alongside Smith, Chad Niman will discuss hardwood mass timber initiatives, and Daniel Hindman from Virginia Tech will present cross-laminated timber research.
Breakout sessions will cover environmental and economic benefits, including carbon sequestration and local sourcing advantages.
"Because this material is often sourced from responsibly managed forests, mass timber construction helps promote local economies by encouraging demand for regional hardwoods and creating opportunities for rural communities in Appalachia," Niman explained.
The conference aims to educate attendees on the practical strategies for expanding mass timber usage. Discussions will encompass the material’s ability to reduce building weight and construction time, as well as its potential to withstand hotter temperatures.
"This conference will be a great opportunity for everyone involved in the forest and construction sectors and we are glad to bring a great group of speakers and experts together," Niman added.
The event will be held at the UK Gatton Student Center, with both in-person and online webinar options. Registration is available at https://www3.ca.uky.edu/worldpay/form/forestry-mass-timber/.
Photo Credit: pexels-elkhan-ganiyev
Categories: Kentucky, General