World Tree has created an opportunity to invest in lumber with shorter time horizons and greater impact than typical forestry projects.
Most of us have either read or heard about the cost of a two-by-four over the past year as pandemic-related shortages led to price surges. This dilemma has captured the attention of several audiences from investors and builders to farmers and scientists. When evaluating the lumber market one topic cannot be ignored, climate change.
The value of trees goes beyond their roots, literally. According to the PennState Extension, ‘Trees are without a doubt the best carbon capture technology in the world.’ While demand for lumber is rising, the lumber market is increasingly facing supply shortages due in part to deforestation. Considering the length of time it takes for many trees to grow and their benefits to our planet, many are now looking for regenerative lumber alternatives.
In the face of growing demand and declining supply, tree farms are expected to play a key role in the future of the lumber market. World Tree has been an early adopter of sustainable tree farming by leveraging the dynamic properties of Empress Splendor (botanical name Paulownia) trees. World Tree specializes in non-invasive species fortunei and elongata. A regenerative, fast-growing, carbon capturing, light-weight hardwood making a name for itself across a variety of use cases across multibillion-dollar industries.
For example, musical instruments make up an estimated $4.5 billion-dollar industry in North America alone. Historically, Swamp Ash has been the popular lumber used by guitar makers, dating back to the 1950s. Recently, due to climate change and an invasive beetle, the supply of this wood has dramatically declined.
Paulownia can bridge the supply gap, produce a superior product, and deliver peace of mind to the consumer for making an eco-conscious purchase. See where else Paulownia can make a difference and learn more about this ‘green gold’ in World Tree’s latest publication, “Paulownia’s Potential Within the Lumber Market,” a brief overview of the global lumber market and Paulownia’s potential.
