The Principles for Responsible Timber Construction

The Principles for Responsible Timber Construction set out a clear, ambitious, and achievable framework to build trust, align policies, and drive investment in sustainable timber construction — for the future of both forests and cities. This framework not only advances environmental goals but also ensures that the transition to sustainable construction is equitable and inclusive, embodying core tenets of a just transition by showing how the shift to low-carbon building also promotes social equity, fair livelihoods, Indigenous rights, and long-term environmental stewardship.

Since COP28, Built by Nature has collaborated with the Forest and Climate Leaders Partnership (FCLP), Bauhaus Earth, and other key partners to develop and refine these Principles. They have already been reviewed by governments, industry leaders, and NGOs, with initial feedback showing strong support. The Principles are now shaping the criteria for a new international buildings Prize. This panel will explore the Principles in more detail, examining how the industry can help apply them in real-world projects, and how broader endorsement can drive a just transition across the buildings value chain.

Chairperson Anna Lisa McSweeney, UK Networks Lead - Built by Nature Speakers Joe Jack Williams, Head of Sustainability - Bywater Properties Dan Daley, Clean Construction and Just Transition - C40 Cities Heidi Kagiali, Forestry & Conservation Manager - PEFC