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Built by Nature Announces 2025 Global Prize for Responsible Timber Construction

Built by Nature (BbN), an organization dedicated to advocating the responsible use of timber and other bio-based materials, has announced the launch of its prestigious global prize for 2025. This initiative aims to recognize exemplary applications of the Principles for Responsible Timber Construction, celebrating projects that demonstrate innovative and sustainable building practices primarily using wood. The call for applications will officially open on April 7, inviting submissions for both completed and ongoing projects, which can include new constructions, significant renovations, and essential expansions.

The winners of this illustrious prize will not only receive recognition at BbN's annual summit in October but will also be featured in high-profile events, including a documentary premiering at the upcoming COP30 conference. Additionally, these projects will be included in an international study tour and will stand as benchmarks for responsible timber construction showcased on the Built by Nature Knowledge Hub, reinforcing their importance in the global discourse on sustainable building.

A committee of international experts from across the construction value chain will evaluate the submissions based on their alignment with established principles. These principles were created through collaboration with initiatives such as the Forest and Climate Leaders Partnership and Bauhaus Earth, setting forth a collective framework to ensure that the timber construction sector can thrive while adhering to sustainability practices.

Paul King, the CEO of Built by Nature, expressed pride in launching the 2025 prize, noting, "We are thrilled to launch our 2025 prize, highlighting the best timber construction projects globally. Applicants will need to demonstrate how their projects align with the Principles for Responsible Timber Construction, utilizing existing project data. The industry has already produced stunning wooden buildings; it's time to celebrate these achievements and accelerate their replication."

Manuel Pulgar-Vidal, a prize judge and global climate and energy head at WWF, emphasized the significance of these principles, stating they provide consensus-driven guidance for policymakers and governments to inform regulation and support investment incentives. He further remarked that they should become the global standard for timber buildings governed by sustainability criteria.

Ana Belizário of Urbem, a Brazilian mass timber manufacturer and a returning judge from the 2024 BbN prize, highlighted the importance of COP30, noting that it provides a unique spotlight on timber buildings. She remarked, “Ten years after the Paris Agreement, a climate conference dedicated to the Amazon must focus on timber supply chains so we can build more effectively for people, the planet, and nature. This prize will showcase the best examples to the whole world.”

The prize is open to all timber constructions meeting the outlined principles, with the submission window commencing April 7. While English is the preferred language for applications, translations can be provided upon request if needed. Complete details regarding eligibility criteria and the application process are available on Built by Nature's official website.

About Built by Nature

Built by Nature (BbN) is a nonprofit organization focused on transforming the built environment by promoting the responsible use of wood and bio-based materials. BbN connects construction industry leaders on the demand side, fostering collaboration and the sharing of knowledge to drive systemic change. Its funding supports innovative cross-sector initiatives aimed at overcoming barriers and amplifying the role of bio-based materials in decarbonizing the construction sector for the benefit of the climate, nature, and humanity.