
French industrialists are showing growing interest in timber construction, a booming sector that offers numerous economic and ecological opportunities. Among the companies betting on this trend, Ducerf, a SME specialized in wood processing, aims to increase its share of revenue from the construction sector from 40% to 60%. Such a shift reflects the rising appeal of wood as a central material in future construction projects.
Ducerf, in collaboration with four other wood suppliers in Burgundy, has launched a major initiative by developing structural panels made from Burgundian oak. These products aim to replace concrete in new constructions, as well as to serve in projects involving the extension of existing buildings. This innovative approach relies on advanced technologies such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), which is increasingly establishing itself as a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete.
The properties of CLT enable the creation of lighter structures while offering significant structural strength, paving the way for bold and environmentally friendly architectural designs. By turning to materials like Burgundian oak, French industrialists are banking on local resources, which reduces the carbon footprint of constructions while supporting the regional economy.
The approach of Ducerf and its partners highlights the significant potential impact of this transition on the economic and ecological ecosystem of the region. By focusing on local wood for large-scale projects, they demonstrate the viability of sustainable solutions that integrate not only economic criteria but also environmental considerations.
In the face of climate change challenges and the need to reduce CO2 emissions, the use of wood in construction is becoming an obvious choice for industry players. CLT, in particular, enables the construction of energy-efficient buildings and contributes to green architecture, aligning with increasingly stringent environmental standards.