College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Architectural Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Architectural Engineering
Date
6-2026
Primary Advisor
Kristin Potterton, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Architectural Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
The construction and building industries are some of the largest contributors to global carbon emissions accounting almost 42% of global emissions according to Architecture 2030 (2026), prompting increased interest in sustainable building materials such as mass timber. This paper investigates mass timber production in the United States and Europe through a comparative analysis of supply chain, vertical integration, manufacturing processes, machinery, and policy differences. Despite the United States’ abundant forest resources and a growing market demand, American mass timber production continues to lag behind Europe due to limited mill operation, limited vertical integration and demand in commodity lumber, production processes, and policy support. In contrast, European countries benefit from coordinated industry supply and production processes, the latest manufacturing technologies, and active governmental participation. This analysis highlights both the challenges and opportunities to grow to expand mass timber production in the United States. This paper also suggests pathways for improving its competitiveness in the global market to be on the same level as Europe.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/arcesp/258