A groundbreaking startup, Cambium, has launched the world’s first global technology platform dedicated to recycled wood, marking a significant advancement in sustainable building materials. The platform aims to revolutionize wood management by transforming waste wood into carbon-negative building materials.

The innovative platform utilizes cutting-edge supply chain technology to identify and repurpose wood that would typically end up in landfills. By focusing on wood affected by disease, decay, natural disasters, and development projects, Cambium has created a sustainable solution called Carbon Smart Wood™, which produces seven times less CO2 emissions compared to traditional wood-plastic composites.

The environmental impact of this initiative is remarkable. Cambium reports that converting all sawn wood products to Carbon Smart Wood™ could potentially save over 268 million trees. This development comes at a crucial time, as global wood demand is projected to increase by 54% between 2010 and 2050.

Central to Cambium’s operation is the Traece® app, which provides comprehensive supply chain management and tracking capabilities. This technology ensures complete transparency from wood rescue to final product, enabling sawmills to efficiently handle Carbon Smart Wood™ manufacturing and distribution processes.

The company’s commitment to environmental stewardship extends beyond product development. Fifteen percent of Carbon Smart Wood™ sales profits are reinvested into urban forest stewardship programs, supporting tree planting initiatives and community development projects. This approach creates a sustainable cycle of environmental preservation and community benefit.

Industry experts recognize the platform’s potential to transform urban development practices. With predictions indicating that over 60% of the global population will reside in urban areas by 2030, the demand for sustainable building materials is expected to surge. Carbon Smart Wood™ offers versatile applications, including decking, siding, fencing, millwork, and lumber.

The platform’s launch represents a significant milestone in sustainable construction practices. By providing a transparent, efficient system for recycling wood, Cambium is addressing both environmental concerns and market demands. The company has positioned itself as a valuable partner for municipalities, corporations, and non-profit organizations seeking to achieve their sustainability goals.

Looking ahead, Cambium’s initiative could reshape the wood industry’s approach to waste management and sustainability. The platform’s success demonstrates that technological innovation can effectively address environmental challenges while creating economically viable solutions for the construction sector.

News Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/17/this-startup-is-creating-a-global-tech-platform-for-recycled-wood.html