The 2021 National Defense Authorization Act includes language that would encourage the U.S. Department of Defense to consider using mass timber construction on new building projects and renovations.
The bill, which recently received final passage in Congress, directs the Secretary of Defense and Secretary of Agriculture to review the potential to incorporate “innovative wood products in constructing or renovating facilities owned or managed by the Department of Defense.” Congress also directed the secretaries to submit a follow-up report on the subject.
“Several military bases have already built hotels using mass timber after it passed rigorous blast testing,” according to a news release from the American Wood Council. “Further investigation into the use of innovative wood products will help jump start the use of low-carbon materials to support the military’s crucial and evolving mission.”
Several military bases have already built hotels using mass timber after it passed rigorous blast testing, the release says.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 22, 2021
Think tank offers plan for new approach to reduce neighborhood poverty
Strategy uses more targeted approach to invest in low-income areas.
Codes and Standards | Mar 19, 2021
California city bans construction of new gas stations
Existing stations will not be allowed to add more pumps.
Codes and Standards | Mar 18, 2021
Congressmen ask Biden to tackle rising lumber costs
Rising materials costs and supply shortages threaten economic recovery, housing starts.
Codes and Standards | Mar 16, 2021
Massachusetts bill would mandate rooftop solar on new homes, commercial buildings
Proposed Bay State mandate modeled on California’s.
Codes and Standards | Mar 15, 2021
Nevada may create areas for tech companies to form own governments
Legislation calls for ‘Innovation Zones’ that could become smart cities.
Codes and Standards | Mar 11, 2021
Los Angeles commits to carbon-free city buildings
City will take into account embedded carbon when contracting to buy construction products.
Codes and Standards | Mar 10, 2021
‘Smart retrofitting’ will be crucial to net zero aspirations
AI, analytical software, Internet of Things are keys to decarbonization of built environment.
Codes and Standards | Mar 9, 2021
Salt Lake City is first jurisdiction to adopt new standards for off-site construction
Code Council and Modular Building Institute developing standards and compliance protocols.
Codes and Standards | Mar 8, 2021
Hyperlocal zoning could spur more affordable housing construction
Letting blocks and streets pass their own rules could have impact.
Codes and Standards | Mar 5, 2021
Biden builds on Trump’s “Buy American” order
New administration extends preferences for domestic construction materials.