Advancing global mass timber construction - a decade of progress, challenges and future directions: A systematic literature review
Paul D Kremer, Behzad Abbasnejad, Alireza Ahankoob, Ron Wakefield
Abstract
Mass Timber Construction (MTC) is an umbrella term for a group of engineered timber products and a process for construction for a more sustainable built environment. Whilst MTC is seen as a viable substitution for more traditional carbon-intensive construction approaches, industry uptake and wider adoption are relatively slow. Despite the adoption challenges, substantial change has occurred in industry and research domains as MTC enters its second decade as a commercial offering around the world. To better understand the complexities in MTC global market and identify the gaps in knowledge and the barriers to wider adoption, a comprehensive systematic literature review was undertaken. The review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology/approach. A systematic review of 81 papers across 51 different journal publications spanning 10 years was conducted and five themes were interpreted. The outcomes from the review may support the next evolution of research activities and provide details for roadmaps for further advancement of MTC technology. The findings suggest several key recommendations to advance MTC adoption: implementing Translational Design and Construction (TDC) to accelerate industry applications; developing innovative solutions for housing needs; creating dynamic Environmental Product Declarations; incorporating circular economy principles; fostering interdisciplinary collaboration; building consumer confidence through education; establishing integrated urban policies; and enhancing durability through hygrothermal monitoring and advanced research.