MASS TIMBER
A Step Toward Sustainable Construction

As a structural engineer with a passion for innovative and sustainable construction, I am constantly exploring materials and technologies that redefine how we build. Recently, I attended an exclusive workshop on Mass Timber in Delhi, which deepened my understanding of this revolutionary material and its immense potential in modern construction.

What is Mass Timber?

Mass timber is an engineered wood product made by laminating and compressing multiple layers of wood. Products like Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) offer the strength of traditional materials like concrete and steel, with the added benefits of sustainability and aesthetic appeal.

Key Takeaways from the Workshop

Design and Fabrication: Techniques for creating efficient, prefabricated structures using mass timber.

Sustainability: How mass timber reduces carbon emissions and promotes eco-friendly construction.

Applications in India: Adapting mass timber for India’s unique climate and structural requirements.

BIS Efforts to Develop a Timber Code

The development of a timber code in India will be a game-changer, paving the way for mass timber to become a mainstream material. By contributing to this movement, I aim to support the integration of sustainable materials into India’s construction practices, driving innovation and environmental stewardship.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is currently working on developing a dedicated code for engineered timber, including Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam).
Key focus areas include:

Establishing design standards for structural applications.
Addressing moisture resistance, termite protection, and fire safety.
Incorporating load-bearing criteria specific to India’s seismic zones.

Looking Ahead

Engaging with Experts in Sustainability

I had the privilege of interacting with some of the most talented individuals and organizations driving change in the industry, including:

Forest Department Representatives
- Discussed the importance of sustainable forest management and ensuring a steady supply of responsibly sourced timber. Their insights into afforestation initiatives and renewable timber practices reinforced the significance of balancing ecological preservation with industrial needs.
BIS Members
- Engaged in conversations about the ongoing efforts to develop a dedicated mass timber code for India. It was enlightening to learn about the challenges and progress in establishing guidelines tailored to India’s climate and structural requirements.
NITI Aayog Officials
- Explored potential policy frameworks to promote mass timber adoption in India. Their vision of integrating sustainable materials into India’s infrastructure goals resonated with my belief in innovation-driven growth.
Architects Leading the Timber Revolution
- Connected with architects who are already spearheading projects in mass timber and sustainable design. Their creative approaches to blending aesthetics with functionality were truly inspiring and opened up ideas for collaboration on future projects.
Industry Leaders and Innovators
- Interacted with structural engineers and sustainability advocates working on groundbreaking timber projects worldwide. These exchanges gave me insights into best practices and strategies to overcome technical and logistical barriers in India.

MASS TIMBER A Step Toward Sustainable Construction