From Waste to worth: feasibility of repurposing construction timber waste into CLT-inspired sustainable panels in developing countries

Abstract

This study examines the feasibility of repurposing construction timber waste into Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)-inspired sustainable panels in developing countries with an objective of transform discarded wood materials into value-added construction products. Despite the global reputation of the CLT system for their structural performance, environmental advantages, and adaptability to modern building practices, their adoption in developing regions remains minimal due to high production costs, limited local manufacturing capacity, and low awareness of engineered timber technologies. A comprehensive review of CLT manufacturing principles, structural properties, and international adoption trends is undertaken alongside an assessment of timber waste generation practices in developing countries. Potential of repurposed timber waste, such as plywood and other wood-related products, as an alternative raw material to CLT-inspired panels is critically reviewed. This paper also examines the technical, environmental, and practical conditions that constitute the viability of such initiatives, with a focus on their adherence to the principles of the circular economy and sustainable development of construction objectives. The results show that timber waste can be reformed into engineered panels through proper processing, including material selection, quality standardization, and policy support. This approach will lead to significant environmental, economic, and social benefits for the construction industry in developing countries.