Social, economic, and policy aspects of cross-laminated timber: A review of emerging literature and future research needs

Production of Cross-laminated timber (CLT), which is the most widely used mass timber product, for use in large-scale building construction has been increasing as an alternative to traditional building materials. While knowledge on the environmental and engineering aspects of mass timber, such as CLT, has been well documented in wood science and engineering literature, little is established regarding the social, economic, and policy aspects. Peer-reviewed publications were examined to establish current knowledge and future research gaps for cross-laminated timber and mass timber systems. Research on these aspects of mass timber is emerging but remains isolated and sporadic. This article synthesizes current research on these topics and identifies future research needs. Remaining gaps include product and lifecycle cost, regional impacts, recyclability, carbon credit potential, small diameter timber and hardwood lumber utilization, policy and incentive programs, and current public perception of cross-laminated timber and mass timber in general. Findings from this study will benefit researchers and other stakeholders in the wood industry and offer guidance on future research opportunities.