Wood is a natural, renewable material that has played a central role in human development for millennia, serving as a key resource in construction, furniture-making, paper production, and energy generation. Composed primarily of cellulose fibers bound together by lignin, wood offers an ideal balance of strength, workability, and aesthetic appeal. Its versatility and wide availability have made it a preferred material across many industries. When sourced responsibly from well-managed forests, wood is considered a sustainable option due to its carbon-storing capabilities and its potential for reuse and recycling. However, despite its ecological benefits, the full sustainability of wood as a resource depends heavily on how it is used and managed throughout its lifecycle.

A significant concern surrounding wood is the amount of waste generated at various stages, from harvesting and processing to manufacturing and disposal. Inefficiencies such as overharvesting, sawmill offcuts, and construction-site discards result in considerable material loss. In many regions, demolition wood and furniture waste are often sent to landfills or incinerated, despite the material's potential for reuse or conversion into energy or engineered products. Moreover, treated or composite woods can complicate recycling processes due to the presence of adhesives and chemical finishes. Reducing wood waste through improved design, modular construction, and circular material flows is critical not only for conserving resources but also for minimizing environmental impact and maximizing the value of this essential natural material.