Sustainability in the construction industry is becoming increasingly critical across every phase of development. At Mumford & Wood, we’re proud to offer timber windows and doors that align seamlessly with your sustainability goals and low-carbon commitments.
What Is Sustainable Construction?
Sustainable construction is the practice of using environmentally responsible materials and methods throughout the building lifecycle — from design and construction to operation and deconstruction. The aim? To minimise the industry’s contribution to climate change by lowering reliance on fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Where Does Traditional Construction Fall Short?
Despite progress in green building, the construction industry still carries a significant carbon footprint. It accounts for:
- 36% of global energy use
- 40% of global CO₂ emissions
These figures stem largely from the energy-intensive processes involved in manufacturing, transporting, and assembling traditional building materials — many of which are powered by fossil fuels.
How Can Construction Become More Sustainable?
1. Renewable Energy Use
Construction sites consume a considerable amount of energy, from on-site machinery to heavy transport vehicles. Switching to renewable sources such as solar, wind, or biofuel can greatly reduce carbon output.
2. Low-Impact Building Materials
Sustainable building prioritises materials that are natural, renewable, and responsibly sourced — timber, for example, instead of high-emission materials like concrete or plastics. Concrete manufacturing alone is responsible for over 2.8 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.
3. Smarter Resource Management
The extraction, production, and distribution of raw materials contribute around 11% of global carbon emissions, according to the Royal Academy of Engineering. Sustainable construction considers not only what is built, but how and where — ensuring that green spaces and ecosystems are preserved wherever possible.
Why Does It Matter?
The UK government has pledged to halve construction emissions by 2025, leading the way in global low-carbon development. With the increasing demand for housing, developers and homeowners alike must consider the long-term impact of every build.
Building on greenfield sites can disrupt vital ecosystems and lead to further carbon release by reducing tree cover and biodiversity. Sustainable development helps mitigate this by preserving habitats, improving building efficiency, and minimising waste.
Why Choose Timber Windows & Doors From Mumford & Wood?
Many buildings today still opt for uPVC windows — a cheaper material made from salt, gas, and oil — but it’s far from eco-friendly. At Mumford & Wood, we craft all of our products using responsibly sourced FSC®-certified timber from managed forests.
This sustainable approach ensures:
- Carbon sequestration through replanting schemes
- Healthier ecosystems as light returns to the forest floor
- Natural materials that age beautifully and last decades
Timber is a renewable resource with exceptional insulating properties and low embodied energy, making it one of the most sustainable materials in the construction industry.
About Mumford & Wood
At Mumford & Wood, we take pride in crafting premium timber windows and doors that deliver long-term performance, aesthetic beauty, and environmental responsibility. Every frame is made to measure, using the finest sustainably sourced materials and expert British craftsmanship.
To explore our full range of sustainable timber products, download our digital brochure, request a physical copy, or contact our team to discuss your next project.
