Reducing Tropical Hardwood Use in Construction

White paper explores practical alternatives that protect forests without sacrificing performance.

We are happy to present this white paper, authored by Emi LaFountain (Turner Construction Company), Jacob Dunn (ZGF), Josh Cabot (SERA Architects), and Chris Hardy (Sasaki). The paper explores the use of tropical hardwoods in construction and highlights practical alternatives that protect forests without sacrificing performance. Species such as Ipe, Teak, and Cumaru are valued for their durability and aesthetics, yet their extraction is closely tied to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and carbon emissions. 

With tropical forests storing vast amounts of carbon and supporting half of the world’s terrestrial species, demand from markets like North America places significant strain on these ecosystems. This paper offers pathways for reducing those impacts while upholding high standards of design and construction.

Key issues with current practices include illegal logging, corruption, unreliable certification, long transport distances, and unpredictable costs. Not all tropical hardwoods are harmful, however. Community forestry models—such as those in Guatemala’s Biosphere Reserve—demonstrate that responsible management can protect ecosystems while supporting local economies.

The paper outlines a range of alternatives that achieve similar results. Options include durable domestic species like Black Locust and Alaskan Yellow Cedar, modified woods such as thermally treated or acetylated pine, FSC/PEFC-certified products, plastic composites, and modern surface coatings. It also emphasizes that thoughtful design, detailing, and maintenance extend wood life as much as material choice.

By raising awareness, prioritizing alternatives, and applying supply chain due diligence, the construction industry can reduce reliance on problematic tropical hardwoods while still meeting design and performance goals