Polymer Lumber: A Solution To Deforestation?
Deforestation is a major concern to engineers, manufacturers, and citizens across the globe. Climate change, soil erosion, an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, and gradual desertification are just a few of the negative effects associated with this global issue. Not surprisingly, lumber extraction and timber production are sizeable contributors.
That is where polymer lumber comes into play. Polymer lumber is a solution to deforestation because it’s so beneficial.
What Is Polymer Lumber?
Polymer lumber, or recycled plastic lumber, is a brilliant and earth-saving alternative to traditional lumber products. It’s manufactured from recycled plastic or recycled plastic combined with other materials. Polymer lumber is usable in a variety of applications, including:
- Agricultural fences, gates, and livestock stalls
- Retaining and seawalls
- Decking, docks, and flooring
- Sound barriers
- Marine applications
- Park benches and picnic tables
Aside from their visual appeal, products made from polymer lumber are cost-effective, durable, and low-maintenance. Parks departments often use polymer lumber to create walkways over swampy areas, and cities use the eco-friendly material in playground equipment and speed bumps.
The Benefits of Polymer Lumber
This environmentally friendly material is beneficial in so many ways. Its beauty, recycled makeup, and long-lasting nature are only a few of the qualities that make it so valuable. Other benefits of polymer lumber are:
- Durability: Because it’s constructed from nonporous and recycled materials, polymer lumber is resistant to water, chemical spills, graffiti, insects, splinters, and cracks.
- Low To No-Maintenance: Unlike traditional decks, walkways, benches, and other items made from wood, polymer lumber does not need to be stained, painted, sanded, or treated in any way.
- Cost-Effective: Wood—especially exotic species—is expensive to purchase and maintain. Polymer lumber is comparably affordable and continually cost-effective due to its durability and low-maintenance qualities.
- Environmentally-Friendly: When it comes to helping the earth, few products assist as much as polymer lumber. In addition to lasting a very long time, this product is made from recycled plastics, which keeps it out of landfills.
Polymer Lumber As a Deforestation Solution
Because it can be substituted for an array of products traditionally made from wood, polymer lumber is a solution for deforestation. Companies no longer have to build commercial furniture, extensive walkways, and vast seawalls from imported wood. Reducing the use of wood and stepping out of the timber trade allows buyers, builders, and users to rest assured that they’re using a product with a major and positive environmental impact.