In the pursuit of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 9 (SDG 9) – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, there has been a growing emphasis on adopting sustainable and eco-friendly construction methods. Timber engineering, distinguished by its eco-friendly and renewable attributes, has gained prominence as a viable solution for advancing sustainable infrastructure.
On 15 November 2023, an online webinar titled “Advancing Sustainable Infrastructure Through Timber Engineering” was organised by Dr. Nurul Izzatul Lydia Za’ba and Dr. Izni Atikah Abd Hamid on behalf of the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology (FoEBEIT) at SEGi University. Esteemed panels, including Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Rohana Hassan and Dr. Hajjah Norshariza Mohamad Bhkari from the Institute of Infrastructure Engineering and Sustainable Management (IIESM) at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), were invited to provide insightful discussions on the related topic.
The one-hour webinar, moderated by Ir. Ts. Dr. Tengku Anita Raja Hussin from SEGi University, attracted participation from numerous academicians and students representing various universities. The participants were exposed to an in-depth exploration of timber engineering and its profound impact on sustainable infrastructure. Timber, characterised by its renewable nature, aligns with the objective of minimising the environmental impact of construction activities. The utilisation of sustainably sourced timber not only diminishes carbon emissions but also advocates for responsible forestry practices.
The sharing session by the panels offered a comprehensive view of the regulatory and environmental landscape in timber engineering, presenting both theoretical insights and practical considerations to foster sustainability in the field. The panels emphasised that the longevity of building products is a pivotal factor in sustainable construction. This longevity minimises resource consumption, reduces waste, promotes energy efficiency, and contributes to the economic and social resilience of communities. Integrating durable materials and designing for longevity are crucial facets of sustainable building practices.
Timber stands out as a sustainable building material due to its renewable nature, carbon-impounding capabilities, low-energy manufacturing, recyclability, support for sustainable forestry practices, energy-efficient construction processes, and positive impact on local economies. When sourced and used responsibly, timber plays a pivotal role in promoting environmentally friendly and socially responsible construction practices.
