18.05.2021. The term ‘future-proofing’ in relation to sustainable design began to be used in 2007. In this context, ‘future-proof’ generally refers to energy conservation; in particular, the ability of a structure or design to minimize the effects of future global temperature rise and/or rising energy costs.
Milan, Italy © Victor Garcia/unsplash
Although less durable materials have lower impacts in terms of material extraction, they require more frequent maintenance, operating expenses and replacement.
More durable materials such as wood may have more significant initial impacts, but those impacts pay off in the long run by reducing maintenance, repairs, and operations expenses.
INTERHOLCO further reduces initial impacts related to extraction.
Sustainable forest harvesting sets aside trees that should be protected in light of their importance for the communities © INTERHOLCO
Respecting the principles of FSC® certification, INTERHOLCO adopts reduced impact harvesting techniques in the forest it manages in the Republic of Congo. Calculating the total forest surface of 1.16 million hectares, only 0.17 m3 of wood is harvested per 1 football pitch (=1 hectare) per year.
The sandroads opened in the forest during harvesting are closed down and access blocked at the end of the hearvesting year © INTERHOLCO
On average, sustainable harvesting in Europe produces 4 to 7 m3 of wood per hectare per year. Between 2002 and 2012, wood harvesting in Germany averaged 76 million m3, i. e. 6.7 m3 per hectare per year, almost 40 times higher than what INTERHOLCO harvests in the Republic of Congo.
Calgary, Canada © Matt Lylywhite/unsplash
Wood is not only durable but also has longer service life. Wooden components in a building allow for disassembly and do not need to be disposed of when removed to perform maintenance. Wood can be dismounted, which allows for flexibility and adaptability of structures.
INTERHOLCO offers Sustainable Hardwood 'Made in Africa' as a responsible solution to promote better living conditions (construction with wood), reduce climate change, and increase social justice. As FSC-certified producer specialized in producing and trading logs, sawn timber, glued laminated scantlings and other products, INTERHOLCO manages the entire chain, from forest to customers since 1962. Harvesting wood selectively, INTERHOLCO protects 1.1 million hectares of natural forest from permanent conversion to agricultural land, giving 16’000 local inhabitants access to quality basic services and keeping the habitat of thousands of gorillas and elephants.
Communications contact INTERHOLCO
Tullia Baldassarri Höger von Högersthal
INTERHOLCO AG, Schutzengelstr. 36, 6340 Baar, Switzerland
Tel.: +41 (0)41 767 03 82
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.