Rethink the Future S01 E01 Will we all Live in 'Plyscrapers' in the Future?

Making 90% of our new buildings from wood, rather than concrete and steel, could cut global CO2 emissions by 4% - more than the climate footprint of flying. How? Growing trees absorb carbon dioxide from the air and when used in construction, that CO2 remains stored in the wood – carbon captured in your beams, floors and walls. Now, treated timber can be versatile enough to build housing estates and strong enough for skyscrapers – or “plyscrapers”. Tom Heap explains how it all works – and explores the benefits of living in a more wooden world. “Plyscrapers” are just one idea featured in the Radio 4 series 39 Ways to Save the Planet.