Industrial Usage of Trees

The primary industrial use of trees is for their wood. Around 4 billion cubic metres of wood are removed from global forests every year. Approximately 50% of this wood is used for industrial purposes (sawnwood, panels, paper), while the other 50% is used for energy (fuelwood and charcoal).

Despite green measures, the global demand for timber is expected to rise significantly, with some estimates suggesting it could triple or quadruple by 2050.

The city of Venice, Italy was primarily built on millions of piles made from alder trees imported from forests in Croatia and surrounding regions. They have lasted for over 1000 years because they did not rot when submerged in the water, but instead hardened like stone, similar to fossilisation.  > 

The magnificent ancient carved beams of Westminster Hall's roof are made of Chestnut (commissioned by King Richard II). 

Many Viking ships were made of Siberian Larch, as well as many of Russia's oldest buildings.

The Aspen trees in Sweden are the main sustainable source for the world's boxed matches.

Sweet Chestnut is an excellent choice for fencing due to its high natural tannin content, which provides superior resistance to rot and pests without chemical treatment, often lasting 20-40 years.

Most of the world's paper (pulp) is produced from softwood coniferous trees, particularly pine, spruce, fir, hemlock, and larch.

Alder trees are used to make premium culinary charcoal for grilling.

Historically, alder trees were used to make body measuring sticks to determine coffin sizes. They were also used to make shields.

In addition to more common hardwoods, elm wood is another traditional choice for coffins, because it is remarkably durable and resistant to rot in wet ground, and historically, it was associated with the underworld.

Historically, the resin of the Dragon's Blood Tree was used as a dye for fabrics and leather. And the earthy and sweet aromatic qualities of the resin made it a good choice for use in perfumes and other scented products.

The Royal Navy's 'Walls of Old England' were oak-constructed ships, and HMS Victory consumed 5000 oaks in her build.

Henry III gave the Monks of Worcester 100 Oak Trees for the roof of the new cathedral that covered the tomb of his father, King John.

The red-brown wood of the pear tree is extremely heavy, hard and durable & can be polished to a beautiful finish for furniture. Often, it is dyed black and used as a substitute for ebony.

Walnut husks can be used to create rich dyes, and some tinted sun cream products contain walnut leaf extract.