Sustainability in construction doesn’t come from replacing fleets or overhauling entire operations overnight. What tends to move the needle the most are smaller changes—cutting idle time, using the right equipment for the job, tightening up maintenance, or simply running a more organized site. The real gains come from improving how work gets done day to day, not from starting over. In this article, we break down the easiest upgrades crews can tackle right now to reduce their environmental impact without adding cost or complexity.

Sustainability without pressure

Sustainability in construction is changing. It’s not about big investments or long-term goals. More than anything, it’s about the little things—how equipment is used, how the site runs, and how crews are most efficient with their time and materials.

A big part of the shift is driven by several pressures simultaneously. Rising fuel costs are taking a big bite out of operating budgets. Emissions regulations are getting stricter, especially for larger projects. Clients are starting to ask more questions about how jobs are done, where materials come from, how equipment is used, and what steps are being taken to reduce waste.

That can feel overwhelming, but most of the real impact doesn’t come from huge changes. Instead, it’s about visibility into what actually happens on site—where fuel is being wasted, where time is slipping, or where materials aren’t being used efficiently. Once that’s visible, small adjustments can be made. Crews adjust their workflow, supervisors make different calls, and over time, those small changes add up.

That’s where the easiest sustainability upgrades come in. They’re practical, don’t require major investment, and they tend to improve performance at the same time.

Small changes that make a real difference

1. Reduce idle time

Idling is one of the fastest ways to lose money without realizing it. Machines often keep running even when no work is happening—while crews wait, materials are delayed, or the next task isn’t ready. It might seem like no big deal in the moment, but at the end of the day or across a fleet of machines, it starts to add up fast.

The impact shows up in fuel costs and equipment wear. You’re burning fuel without getting any work out of it, and the machine still takes on hours that count toward maintenance. Across a full day—or a full fleet—that wasted time quickly turns into real cost.

Most of the fix comes down to awareness. Start by paying attention to when and where machines are left running. From there, it’s about setting expectations on site. If equipment isn’t being used, it gets shut off. Some companies install automatic shutoff systems. Even small changes in habits can cut idle time more than most crews expect.

2. Right-size your equipment

It’s common to bring larger equipment onto a job “just in case,” but that usually works against you. Bigger machines burn more fuel and aren’t always suited to tighter spaces or smaller tasks. You end up burning more fuel for work that doesn’t need it.

When the equipment matches the work, everything runs more smoothly. Crews move more efficiently, and machines aren’t working harder than they need to. That shows up in both fuel use and productivity.

This comes down to looking at the job more closely. Not every task needs the biggest machine available. Matching equipment to the scope of work can lower operating costs and make the job easier to manage.

3. Optimize site logistics

A lot of wasted time on a jobsite comes down to movement. Crews walking back and forth. Equipment traveling farther than necessary. Materials stored in the wrong place.

These things don’t always stand out when you’re in the middle of a job, but they quietly slow everything down. They also increase fuel use as machines spend more time moving than working.

Planning the site layout can address much of this. Keeping materials closer to where they’ll be used and reducing unnecessary travel paths makes a noticeable difference. When movement is tighter, the whole job runs faster.

4. Use telematics

Telematics are essentially data-collection systems that show how equipment is being used on site.

Tracking metrics such as equipment usage, fuel consumption, and downtime can give you a clearer picture of what’s happening at your worksite. It removes the guesswork, as you can see which machines are running for too long, which ones are sitting idle, and where you might be wasting fuel.

You don’t need to track everything at once. Even tracking a few basic metrics can make a noticeable difference. Once you can see it, it’s much easier to fix.

5. Improve preventative maintenance

The old saying goes that “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” but the truth is that properly maintained equipment tends to run a lot better. 

Small issues can lead to breakdowns, delays, and higher repair costs if ignored. Your fuel efficiency also suffers, as poorly maintained equipment tends to consume more fuel. 

Sticking to your maintenance schedule keeps machines running smoothly, reduces unexpected downtime, and avoids unnecessary costs and disruptions. 

6. Reduce temporary power wastage

Temporary power can quietly drain your fuel and budget if you’re not paying attention. Lights stay on after you go home, or generators keep running even after the work day is done.

It doesn’t feel like much in the moment, but over the course of a project, it adds up.

A lot of this comes down to simple habits. Turning off generators when they’re not needed. Using timers or sensors for lighting. Making sure power is only running when there’s actual work happening. These are small adjustments, but they cut unnecessary fuel use without changing how the job runs.

7. Train operators

Operator habits have a bigger impact than most crews realize. How a machine is started, how long it idles, how it’s handled during operation—all of it affects fuel use and wear.

Two operators using the same piece of equipment can get very different results depending on how they work.

Training doesn’t need to be complicated to make a difference. Even basic guidance on efficient operation can make a difference. Sharing data when it’s available helps, too. When operators can see how their actions affect performance, they tend to adjust without much pushback. Over time, those small changes in behavior add up across the entire site.

Why this matters for contractors

These changes don’t just cut emissions—they improve the bottom line.

Lower fuel consumption means lower operating costs. Equipment that runs well also lasts longer, needs less maintenance, and spends less time out of service—keeping work flowing and jobs on track.

As regulations tighten, contractors who have been keeping on top of sustainability are in a much stronger position. They’re not scrambling—they’ve already built those habits into how they work.

Margins are where this really adds up. Small improvements in fuel efficiency, maintenance, and productivity don’t look like much on a single job. But across multiple jobs, it adds up to a noticeable boost in profitability.

A common mistake with these upgrades is assuming they require starting from scratch. In reality, it’s more about tightening up what’s already in place and making a few smart adjustments.

Where the industry is heading

This shift is already happening across the industry.

Clients are asking more questions about how projects are run—not just about the final build. There’s more attention to how materials were handled, how equipment was used, and what steps were taken to reduce waste.

Jobsites are becoming more data-driven. Telematics and tracking systems are giving contractors much more visibility into what’s happening on site, making it easier to spot inefficiencies and tighten performance.

There’s also the added pressure on the regulatory side—emissions standards are tightening, especially for larger fleets and public works projects. Contractors who can show they’re effectively managing fuel use and running efficient operations will be in a stronger position when it comes time to bid for new contracts.

It is important to remember that most of these changes don’t start with major investments. They start with better visibility and small behavioral shifts.

Where small changes pay off

The easiest sustainability upgrades aren’t the ones that require replacing equipment or overhauling operations. They’re the small changes that improve how work gets done every day. 

Reducing idle time, using the right equipment, staying on top of maintenance, and adjusting how crews operate all lead to lower fuel use, lower costs, and longer equipment life. Those gains add up faster than most crews expect. 

Sustainability in construction is becoming part of standard practice. It’s tied directly to how jobs are run, how costs are managed, and how contractors stay competitive.

For more practical insight on how construction is changing—and how to stay ahead—join the Under the Hard Hat newsletter.

For years, contractors have known there’s waste on jobsites—machines idling longer than they should, equipment being used inefficiently—but it hasn’t always been clear where those losses were happening or how much they were costing. Now, that’s starting to change. Fuel costs aren’t easing up, and emissions targets are tightening, which is pushing contractors to take a closer look at how their equipment is actually being used. This article breaks down how data-driven insights are helping crews identify waste, cut fuel use, and reduce emissions without overhauling their entire fleet.

What data-driven actually means on a job site

“Data-driven” can sound abstract, but on a jobsite, it’s simple. Machines collect data every time they run. Telematics systems track engine hours, idle time, fuel use, and location. Fleet platforms show how often equipment is used—and where it’s parked when it’s not in use. On top of that, operator activity adds another layer of performance data throughout the day.

All this information feeds into dashboards that project managers and fleet managers can actually use. Rather than relying on guesswork, they can see clear patterns: Which machines are idling too long, where fuel is being wasted, and how equipment is being used across sites. That shift is bigger than it sounds. Construction has always leaned on experience and instinct. Data doesn’t replace that; it simply adds clarity.

Where the biggest savings come from

Most contractors expect savings to come from big changes—new machines, new fuels, major upgrades. That’s not usually where the first wins show up.

Idle time: the biggest opportunity

Idle time is one of the highest hidden costs on any jobsite.

• Equipment idle time averages around 30% of operating hours in construction
• Idling can account for 10–30% of total fuel consumption 
• A single machine can burn up to 0.8 gallons of fuel per hour while idling

That’s fuel being burned with zero production, and it adds up fast. When contractors start keeping tabs on idle time, they find it’s much higher than expected. Machines are often left running during breaks, in between tasks, or while waiting for loads. What once seemed normal—leaving equipment running between tasks—has now become a major source of inefficiency and extra spend.

The good news is that this is one of the easiest areas to fix.

• Telematics programs have reduced idling by 10–15% on average
• Some fleets have cut idle time by 40–60% within a month by tracking and coaching operators 
• Real-world construction fleets have seen 28% reductions in idling within a year 

That translates directly into fuel savings and emissions reductions.

Equipment usage and right-sizing

Another major source of savings comes from how machines are used across a jobsite. Once contractors start looking at utilization data, patterns become clear. Some machines are running constantly, while others sit idle for long stretches of the day. That imbalance doesn’t just affect productivity—it also leads to unnecessary fuel burn and added wear on overused equipment.

Reviewing this data gives contractors the chance to rebalance their fleet. Underused machines can be reassigned to other tasks or removed from the site altogether. At the same time, crews can make better decisions about which equipment is actually needed for each job. Matching the right machine to the task is one of the simplest ways to cut costs.

Using oversized equipment for a small job is more common than it should be. It burns extra fuel and puts unnecessary wear on machines. When contractors match equipment to the task, you’ll see fuel usage drop right away—without sacrificing speed or performance.

Run time and workflow gaps

Fuel waste isn’t just about idling around; it’s built into how the jobsite runs. More often than not, it’s hiding in everyday workflows.

For instance:

• Trucks sitting idle at loading points before they move
• Excavators running without a truck to haul
• Crews working out of sync, creating delays and unnecessary machine time

Having numbers on hand helps track inefficiencies. Once the issues are identified, the fixes are pretty straightforward—better scheduling, optimized haul routes, and better coordination between crews. Companies that get a handle on this have cut fuel costs by 14% and racked up $47,000+ in savings in just 90 days. These aren’t major overhauls—they’re the result of more informed decision-making from clearer information.

How to reduce emissions without overhauling your fleet

There’s a common assumption that lowering emissions means replacing equipment with electric machines. That’s one path, but it’s not the only one. Data enables contractors to reduce emissions with the equipment they already own.

Start with visibility

Before data, most companies could only track fuel purchases—not actual fuel use.

Now, telematics and IoT sensors show:

• Idle time per machine
• Fuel consumption by the operator
• Equipment utilization across the jobsite

That visibility is what drives change.

Practical changes that make a difference

1. Tracking machine usage: The data highlights which machines are overused and which are underused. Rebalancing workloads reduces unnecessary fuel burn.
2. Identifying operator behavior: Two operators using the same machine can produce very different fuel results. Data shows those differences and helps guide training.
3. Adjusting haul routes: Shorter routes or fewer delays reduce engine time. Even small adjustments add up over the course of a project.
4. Improving scheduling: Better coordination between crews reduces idle time and waiting periods.
5. Optimizing fleet size: Data often reveals that fewer machines can handle the same workload. Removing excess equipment immediately cuts fuel use and emissions.

These changes don’t require new machines. They require better decisions.

Benefits and barriers

The benefits of using data on a jobsite tend to kick in much sooner than many contractors expect. Once teams are tracking machines’ performance and fuel use, it becomes much easier to spot areas where resources are being wasted and make small changes that can add up over time. But transitioning to a data-driven approach takes time—it requires changes in how teams work, communicate, and make decisions.

Benefits

• Lower fuel costs: Reducing idle time and improving equipment utilization cuts one of the largest operating expenses on a jobsite. 
• Reduced emissions: Lower fuel consumption directly reduces emissions. Contractors can make measurable progress toward environmental targets without replacing their entire fleet or investing in new equipment.
• Less machine wear: Idle time doesn’t just waste fuel—it adds wear to engines and components. Cutting unnecessary runtime helps extend equipment life and reduce the frequency of maintenance and repairs.
• Better project flow: When data highlights delays or inefficiencies, teams can tighten up workflows. Crews spend less time waiting for equipment or materials and more time completing tasks.
• Improved decision-making: Data replaces assumptions with actual performance metrics. Managers can make decisions based on what’s happening on the jobsite rather than relying solely on experience or estimates.

Barriers

The biggest challenge isn’t collecting data—it’s putting it to use in a consistent and practical way. Many contractors already have access to telematics and reporting tools, yet those tools don’t always translate into daily action.

Some common issues include:

• Teams are unsure how to interpret data: Raw numbers don’t always tell a clear story. Without context or training, it can be difficult to understand what needs to change.
• Too much information without clear priorities: Dashboards can become overwhelming. If everything looks important, teams may struggle to focus on the changes that will have the biggest impact.
• Resistance to changing habits: Construction workflows are often built on years of experience. Shifting those habits, especially when they seem to work, can be challenging.
• Inconsistent use across projects: One site may fully adopt data-driven practices while another continues to operate the old way. That inconsistency limits the overall impact.

Training plays a major role in overcoming these barriers. Operators and managers need to understand not only what the data shows, but how to act on it in real situations. Even small changes—like adjusting idle practices or reassigning equipment—can make a difference when applied consistently.

A shifting industry

Construction is starting to measure performance differently. Finishing a project on time still matters, but there’s growing attention on how that work gets done. Fuel use, idle time, and machine performance are no longer background details. They’re becoming part of everyday conversations on jobsites and in project meetings.

This shift is driven by a mix of pressures contractors are facing. Fuel costs continue to rise, which makes inefficiencies harder to ignore. Emissions regulations are getting tighter, and that’s forcing companies to get their act together on tracking and reducing their environmental impact. Meanwhile, clients and investors are asking more questions about how a project is being run, not just whether it’s getting done on time. Technology has made it easier to collect and review jobsite data, removing many of the barriers that once made this kind of tracking difficult.

There’s also a generational change happening in the workforce. Newer workers are more comfortable using digital tools and expect data to be integral to project management. They’re used to dashboards, real-time updates, and readily available information. This expectation is starting to shape how companies operate.

All of this is leading to a gradual shift toward more connected job sites. Machines are still digging, hauling, and grading the same way they always have. The difference lies in how those machines are monitored and managed. Data now ties together equipment, crews, and workflows, giving teams a clearer picture of what’s happening across the site and where improvements can be made.

Final thoughts

Data is doing more than tracking machine hours or fuel use. It’s helping contractors make better decisions every day. The biggest gains don’t come from massive changes. They come from small adjustments—reducing idle time, improving coordination, and using equipment more effectively. Those changes lower costs. They also reduce emissions without requiring a full fleet overhaul. Construction will always rely on experience. That’s not going away. What’s changing is the ability to support those decisions with clear, measurable information.

If you want more insights on how technology is shaping construction jobsites, subscribe to the Under the Hard Hat newsletter and stay up to date on what’s changing across the industry.

As the construction industry seeks to lower its carbon footprint, many builders are turning to one of the world’s most impressive, fast-growing plants: bamboo. This article explores how bamboo for construction can serve as a high-strength, sustainable building alternative to steel and concrete in modern projects. You will learn why this versatile material is a serious contender for the future of eco-friendly construction and how it might change the way we build.

How bamboo is being used for construction today

Bamboo has been used for building for thousands of years, especially in vernacular construction across Asia and South America. In its natural form, bamboo has been used for scaffolding, bridges, and bamboo houses. In places like Bali, iconic structures like the Green School show how beautiful and durable bamboo can be. Today, bamboo use in construction is expanding, with it being used for high-end flooring, structural beams, and even prefab wall panels for new buildings.

Is bamboo sustainable?

The embodied carbon advantage

Traditional materials like cement and steel contribute heavily to global emissions because they require massive amounts of energy to produce. Sustainable bamboo offers a major advantage because it is a bio-based material that stores carbon during growth. By incorporating bamboo into our cities, we can help reduce a project’s total carbon footprint. However, we must remember that environmental sustainability depends on more than just the plant. The quality of bamboo, how it is processed, and how far it travels all matter when making a sustainable choice.

Fast growth and renewability

Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that matures much faster than timber. While a tree might take decades to reach full size, a bamboo plant is ready to harvest in just three to five years. This rapid renewability is a huge strength. In a bamboo forest, the root system stays alive even after a harvest, so it can keep growing without the need for replanting. This makes bamboo a very attractive construction material, though the energy required to manufacture a bamboo product must still be considered to ensure it is truly environmentally friendly.

How bamboo performs structurally

Strength-to-weight ratio

One of the most exciting things about building with bamboo is its mechanical properties. A mature bamboo culm has a better strength-to-weight ratio than many traditional materials. In fact, some species of bamboo have a higher tensile strength than steel. This makes it a powerful construction material for beams and frames. Many civil engineers have noted that bamboo’s mechanical properties make it a viable contender for structural use in specific construction projects.

Variability and engineering challenges

Even though bamboo is strong, it is also a natural material with a lot of variety. Unlike steel, which is made in a factory, every piece of bamboo is different in diameter and moisture. Natural bamboo may also have different wall thicknesses along the culm. This variability makes it harder to use in the same way we use standard timber or steel. To fix this, builders need construction standards and testing to ensure bamboo poles can be used safely in modern bamboo buildings.

Engineered bamboo products

To make bamboo more predictable, many companies now create engineered bamboo. This involves bonding bamboo fibres or strips with adhesives to create a composite material. These bamboo materials behave much like timber beams but can be even stronger. While engineered bamboo allows for more complex construction, it is important to check the adhesives used to ensure the final bamboo product remains environmentally friendly.

Where bamboo can and cannot replace steel and concrete

Bamboo for building works best in low to mid-rise structures. It can be used for columns, panels, and even as bamboo-reinforced concrete in some cases. While bamboo can be used to replace steel in reinforced concrete for smaller projects, it often works best in hybrid systems where it reduces the amount of steel and concrete rather than fully replacing them.

Limitations and constraints

There are some things to keep in mind when using bamboo for construction. Untreated bamboo is vulnerable to moisture and pests, such as termites, so durability is a concern. While some say bamboo has natural fire resistance, it still must be treated to withstand fire temperatures. Standards and building codes also make it difficult to use bamboo in high-rise buildings or in heavily regulated markets that rely on concrete’s compressive strength.

What needs to happen for bamboo to scale

Standards and code pathway

For bamboo to be used for construction, we need better codes and recognized construction standards. Moving from a vernacular material to a standardized system helps builders and inspectors trust the quality of bamboo used for construction purposes. Clear standards help move the industry toward more sustainable building practices.

Durability, detailing, and lifecycle performance

Moisture management is the most important part of bamboo maintenance. If bamboo gets wet and stays wet, it will rot. Proper detailing and the use of construction-grade bamboo treated for pests are vital. Long-term maintenance must be planned from the start to ensure the lifecycle of the bamboo materials aligns with the project’s needs.

A hybrid future

The most realistic future for bamboo as a building material is as a partner to traditional materials. By combining concrete’s compressive strength and steel’s reliability with bamboo’s low-carbon benefits, we can create more eco-friendly construction. A hybrid bamboo project allows construction teams to build safe, strong structures while moving toward a more sustainable future.

Bottom line

Bamboo is a versatile material that offers a serious solution for greener building. It isn’t a universal fix that will replace all steel and concrete, but it is a powerful tool when used properly. Its future in the construction industry depends on good engineering, better standards and building codes, and a commitment to using the best bamboo species available for the job.

Want to stay updated on the latest sustainable building materials and AEC trends? Subscribe to our newsletter today to get the best industry insights delivered straight to your inbox.

The global push for green construction is facing a massive reality check as new data shows a cooling trend in the market. This article summarizes the 2025 RICS Sustainability Report to explain why the demand for green buildings has slowed down recently. Also, discover the challenges facing investors and what experts believe the future holds for sustainable real estate.

For years, the construction and real estate industries have been racing to meet high demand for sustainable buildings. However, recent data from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) suggests that this momentum has hit a speed bump. While sustainability remains a major topic of conversation, demand for green spaces has begun to level off or even decline in certain areas since 2025.

This shift is a major change from the rapid growth seen in the early 2020s. To understand where the industry is headed, we need to look at the specific data points and the economic factors that influence investor and developer decisions.

Key data from the 2025 RICS report

The 2025 RICS Sustainability Report shows a noticeable dip in market sentiment. According to the survey, about 30% of respondents worldwide reported that demand for green buildings has slowed compared with previous years. In some regions, such as Europe, the numbers are slightly more resilient, but the overall global trend points toward a cooling period.

One of the most telling statistics is the “green premium.” This is the extra amount that tenants or buyers are willing to pay for a sustainable building. The report indicates that while a premium still exists, it is shrinking. Investors are becoming more cautious about whether the high costs of green construction will yield strong returns in the current economy.

Factors contributing to the decline

Several factors are slowing the green building movement. The biggest challenge is the rising cost of materials and high interest rates. Construction projects are more expensive than they used to be, and developers are looking for ways to cut costs. Unfortunately, sustainable features like advanced HVAC systems or eco-friendly materials are often the first things to be trimmed from a budget.

Another issue is the lack of clear carbon measurement standards. Many investors are frustrated by greenwashing and the difficulty of proving that a building is actually sustainable. Without consistent carbon footprint data, it is hard for companies to justify additional spending to shareholders.

Regional variations and investor confidence

The slowdown is not happening at the same speed everywhere. Europe remains a leader in sustainability due to stringent government regulations that require companies to meet environmental standards. However, in North America and parts of Asia, the trend is more driven by market demand than by laws. In these areas, the decline in interest is more pronounced as investors await improved economic conditions.

Investor confidence has also been shaken by the “brown discount.” This is the loss in value that older, non-sustainable buildings face. Instead of rushing to build new green towers, many investors are choosing to stay on the sidelines to see how new regulations and energy costs will shake out over the next few years.

What this means for the AEC sector

Experts believe this trend does not mean that sustainability is going away. Instead, it means the industry is entering a phase of quality over quantity. Contractors and designers will need to find more cost-effective ways to integrate green technology without breaking the bank. The focus is shifting toward practical solutions that offer immediate energy savings rather than just earning a certificate for a wall.

For the real estate sector, this cooling period is a time to refine how we measure success. As carbon reporting becomes more accurate, demand may pick up again once investors have the data they need to feel confident.

Want to stay updated on the latest construction trends and market reports? Subscribe to our newsletter today to get the best AEC insights delivered to your inbox.

Green roof companies have moved from niche suppliers to everyday partners on commercial, institutional, and even industrial projects. If you’re planning a green roof or amenity deck, you’re not just picking plants—you’re choosing a system that affects structure, waterproofing, maintenance budgets, and tenant appeal. The U.S. green roof market is growing rapidly, with more contractors seeking reliable green roof installation companies that can provide technical support and attractive roofs. In this guide, we’ll look at where the industry is heading, then walk through 10 U.S.-based firms, from small specialty shops to national leaders. Names you’ll see include Hanging Gardens, Recover Green Roofs, Columbia Green Technologies, and American Hydrotech.

The green roof industry

Green roofs have shifted from “nice to have” features to practical infrastructure for stormwater management, urban heat mitigation, and tenant amenities. Market analysts expect the U.S. green roof market to reach about US$678.6 million by 2030, growing at a roughly 18.7% CAGR between 2025 and 2030. Globally, green roofs were valued at around US$2.66 billion in 2024, with forecasts pointing to US$4.75 billion by 2032, at an annual growth rate of about 17%. That kind of climb shows up on the ground: municipal incentive programs, LEED targets, WELL certifications, and corporate ESG reporting all now point design teams toward vegetated roofs and podium decks.

One recent market review estimates that the United States accounts for about 19% of global green roof installations, led by cities such as Chicago, Washington, D.C., and San Francisco, with roughly 48 million square feet of green roofing already in place and over 11 million square feet of new systems installed in 2023. These roofs aren’t just marketing pieces; performance studies have documented improved stormwater retention, lower roof-surface temperatures, increased PV yield when solar is combined with vegetation, and even higher rental revenue than comparable buildings with conventional roofs. As a result, more owners now view green roofs as infrastructure assets with measurable payback, not just an architectural flourish.

The best green roof companies to hire in the U.S. 

9. Hanging Gardens (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

• Market cap/revenue: Private; small multi-million-dollar revenue
• Employees: 6–20 (small specialist team)
• CEO: Anthony Mayer (founder)
• Founded: 2009

Hanging Gardens is a Milwaukee-based stormwater and green roof supplier that focuses on giving small- and mid-size projects the same technical attention as flagship roofs. Early coverage put the firm at just six full-time employees, yet it had an outsized catalog—hundreds of SKUs spanning pavers, roof membranes, drainage mats, plants, and stormwater products for architects and contractors. 

Their bread and butter is helping project teams in older Great Lakes cities retrofit roofs and terraces for detention and amenity use, often in areas with combined sewers and aging infrastructure, where runoff is a headache. For contractors, Hanging Gardens is a good fit when you want a nimble partner who can quickly pull together vegetated roof assemblies, blue-green roof strategies, and matching paver systems without getting lost in big-company bureaucracy.

8. Omni Ecosystems (Chicago, Illinois)

• Market cap/revenue: Estimated US$5–10 million annually
• Employees: 20–25
• CEO: Molly Meyer (founder and CEO)
• Founded: 2009–2010

Omni Ecosystems describes its mission as “democratizing nature,” and it backs that up with deep technical work on lightweight, high-performance soil systems and “working landscapes” that include rooftop farms. Founder and CEO Molly Meyer learned green roof design in Germany before relocating to Chicago, where the company now designs and builds green roofs, podium landscapes, and urban agriculture projects.

Omni’s team has roughly two dozen staff members with revenue in the mid-single-digit millions, putting them in a sweet spot for complex yet still hands-on projects. Contractors and owners who want food-producing roofs, pollinator-friendly planting, or deeper soils for shrubs and small trees tend to gravitate toward Omni, especially in the Midwest and on the East Coast.

7. Roofmeadow/Roofmeadow Services (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

• Market cap/revenue: Estimated US$6–7 million annually for Roofmeadow; ~US$3–4 million for Roofmeadow Services
• Employees: 20–25 across design and services entities
• CEO: Studio Sustena (formerly Roofmeadow) is now led by a broader leadership team; the founder and long-time president is Charlie Miller, P.E.
• Founded: 1997 (originally as Roofscapes, Inc.)

Roofmeadow is one of the original North American green roof companies and has had an outsized influence on the industry. Charlie Miller founded Roofscapes—now Roofmeadow and Studio Sustena—in 1997 to bring German-style green roofs to U.S. stormwater management practice, later helping author several ASTM green roof standards. The firm’s project list includes the Chicago City Hall green roof and numerous Philadelphia installations tied to the city’s Green City, Clean Waters program. 

Roofmeadow Services, spun out in 2014, focuses on construction, long-term maintenance, and remediation of existing green roofs—a combination that appeals to contractors who want a single design partner involved from layout through stewardship.

6. Recover Green Roofs (Somerville/Boston, Massachusetts)

• Market cap/revenue: Estimated US$100,000–5 million annually
• Employees: 25–100, small-to-mid-sized design-build team
• CEO: Mark Winterer (co-founder and owner)
• Founded: 2009

Recover Green Roofs is a New England design-build firm specializing in green roofs, rooftop farms, amenity decks, and intensive rooftop landscapes. Co-founder Mark Winterer has become a familiar name in the Boston sustainability scene; Recover’s portfolio includes work at Fenway Park, the Prudential Center, and the Amherst College Science Center, where Recover installed over 17,000 sedum plugs across the roof. 

Compared with pure manufacturers, Recover is very hands-on: they handle design, installation, and maintenance, often partnering with Roofmeadow and Hydrotech on complex assemblies. For general contractors and CMs in the Northeast, Recover is a strong option when you want a single point of contact who can price, build, and keep the roof alive over time.

5. Xero Flor America (Durham, North Carolina)

• Market cap/revenue: About US$6.9 million annual revenue
• Employees: 18
• CEO: Leadership not widely public; company operates as Xero Flor America LLC
• Founded: 2002

Xero Flor America is the official U.S. distributor of the German Xero Flor pre-vegetated mat system, headquartered in Durham, North Carolina. Pre-grown mats give installers an advantage: contractors crane up a carpet of vegetation rather than individual trays or plugs, which cuts installation time and reduces the “bare” period after completion. 

The company’s mats are grown on regional farms, branded as 100% American-made, and have been used on high-profile roofs, including the Empire State Building. For design teams, Xero Flor is a good fit when wind uplift, thin build-ups, or fast turnarounds are driving the spec; for contractors, the mat format can simplify labor planning, especially on large, flat roofs.

4. Columbia Green Technologies (Portland, Oregon)

• Market cap/revenue: Estimated US$5–9 million annually
• Employees: 23–27
• CEO: Vanessa Keitges (President and CEO)
• Founded: 2006

Columbia Green Technologies is a widely recognized supplier of layered and tray-based green roof systems, amenity decks, and blue-green roofs. The company has supplied systems to Amazon’s downtown Seattle headquarters, where green roofs capture stormwater and tie into on-site reuse systems, and to the Perch at Capital One Center, among many other mixed-use and office projects. 

Columbia Green actively markets to architects and developers seeking amenity decks that feel like small parks, with pavers, planters, and seating integrated into a single package. For contractors, their draw is a tested set of assemblies and strong technical documentation, which makes coordination with waterproofing trades a little less painful on tight schedules.

3. Greenrise Technologies (Nashville, Tennessee)

• Market cap/revenue: Estimated US$37.9 million annually
• Employees: 160+
• CEO: James Marshall
• Founded: 2007

Greenrise Technologies positions itself as a full green infrastructure provider, with engineered systems for green roofs, stormwater detention, bio-retention cells, and rainwater harvesting. With roughly 160 employees and nearly US$38 million in estimated annual revenue, it’s one of the larger dedicated green roof companies in the U.S. 

Greenrise focuses heavily on code compliance—erosion and sediment control, nutrient management, and permit documentation—so civil engineers and public-sector owners tend to bring them in early. On the contracting side, they’re often seen on large institutional and healthcare projects, where the vegetated roof is tightly tied to stormwater credits and local regulations.

2. LiveRoof Global/LiveRoof, LLC (Spring Lake / Nunica, Michigan)

• Market cap/revenue: Estimated US$3–25 million annually across LiveRoof entities (Datanyze)
• Employees: 50
• CEO: Dave MacKenzie (founder, owner, and president)
• Founded: 2006

LiveRoof is a Michigan-based supplier whose “hybrid green roof” modules come pre-grown and designed to knit together into a continuous layer of vegetation. The company grew out of Hortech, a perennial grower, with founder Dave MacKenzie applying decades of plant expertise to roof systems. LiveRoof’s projects range from schools and civic buildings to major healthcare facilities, including a 13,192-square-meter green roof installation at Humber River Hospital in Toronto—one of the largest LiveRoof projects worldwide.

The system appeals to contractors who want predictable logistics (modules are craned and set like pavers) and to owners who care about long-term performance; LiveRoof’s own data highlights extended roof life and energy savings that can reach roughly 25% on heating and cooling.

1. American Hydrotech (Chicago, Illinois; now part of Sika)

• Market cap/revenue: About US$131.8 million annually
• Employees: 115
• CEO: Now integrated into Sika’s North American roofing and waterproofing division; leadership is part of Sika Corporation.
• Founded: 1977

American Hydrotech started as a waterproofing company in 1977 and became one of the earliest promoters of green roofs in North America through its Garden Roof® Assembly. The firm, headquartered in Chicago, has supplied membranes and vegetated roof assemblies for more than 2 billion square feet of installations globally, and it has been recognized as a North American market leader in green and garden roofs.

In 2021, Sika acquired American Hydrotech and, by 2025, fully integrated it into its roofing and waterproofing division, giving the Garden Roof system access to Sika’s manufacturing and technical network. For architects, engineers, and contractors, Hydrotech is often the go-to when large civic or cultural projects demand proven waterproofing under complex, intensive roofs—think museums, hospitals, and high-profile plazas with slopes, deep soils, and heavy public use.

Hydrotech sits at the top of this list not just for revenue, but also because many smaller green roof installation companies on this list—Recover, Roofmeadow, Omni, and others—regularly work with Hydrotech membranes and assemblies on marquee jobs.

How to use this list on your next project

From small stormwater retrofits to stadium-sized amenity decks, the U.S. has a healthy bench of green roof installation companies and system providers. Smaller firms like Hanging Gardens, Omni Ecosystems, and Recover Green Roofs can give you tight coordination, detailed shop drawings, and hands-on site support. Mid-sized players like Roofmeadow, Xero Flor America, and Columbia Green Technologies bring a long track record and proven systems that keep plan reviewers and insurers comfortable. At the top end, Greenrise, LiveRoof, and American Hydrotech operate at a scale that suits airports, hospitals, higher-ed campuses, and multi-tower urban developments.

For architects, general contractors, and engineers reading this, the takeaway is simple: these green roof companies are no longer fringe suppliers. They’re doing real structural coordination, stormwater modeling, and long-term maintenance planning alongside you. 

If you want to keep up with where this part of the industry is headed, subscribe to our newsletter at Under the Hard Hat for more deep dives into construction, design, and building performance.

Penticton, B.C., is moving ahead with one of its largest commercial builds to date: a six-storey mass timber office valued at $60 million. Planned for the city’s innovation district, the building is intended to anchor a wider 10-acre mixed-use site that brings office, light industrial, and future commercial uses together in one location. For construction and design teams following mass timber adoption in B.C., this project is worth watching closely. It reflects a shift toward wood-based systems in private-sector commercial work. It also shows how provincial funding and local development goals are starting to align around mass timber.

A six-storey anchor for a growing employment hub

The proposed building will deliver modern office space aimed at technology firms, professional services, and innovation-driven tenants. The six-storey structure is planned as the centerpiece of a larger employment area, rather than a standalone office tower. The surrounding 10-acre site is laid out to support phased growth, allowing additional buildings and uses to follow as demand increases.

For Penticton, this approach supports job growth while keeping development concentrated. For builders and developers, it offers flexibility. The initial office building sets the tone for the site, while later phases can adapt to market conditions without requiring a redesign of the entire district.

Why mass timber and what it signals for B.C.

Mass timber was selected for its construction speed, material sourcing, and climate goals. Prefabricated timber components enable more work to be done off-site, reducing on-site labor demands and compressing schedules. That matters in regions where skilled labor remains in short supply. Faster enclosure also limits exposure to weather delays, which can affect both cost and sequencing.

The environmental case also factored into the decision. Mass timber stores carbon within the structure and relies on wood products sourced from within British Columbia. That aligns with provincial priorities tied to emissions reduction and value-added forestry. This project received provincial grant funding to help offset early design and construction costs, easing some of the financial risk associated with larger mass timber builds. The funding reflects a broader strategy: use public support to help private developments prove that wood construction can compete at a commercial scale.

For trade contractors, engineers, and architects, a six-storey mass timber office offers lessons that differ from those of civic or institutional projects. Structural design, fire-protection strategies, and coordination among trades become more complex at this height. Delivering this building successfully will add practical experience that can be carried into future offices, labs, and mixed-use developments across the province.

Projects like Penticton’s office building show that mass timber is moving beyond one-off showcases and into everyday commercial construction. They give the industry real cost, schedule, and performance data to work from. 

If you want to follow developments like this and see how they affect construction, engineering, and design work across Canada, you can sign up for the Under the Hard Hat newsletter.

Quebec-based glass manufacturer Saint-Gobain recently completed the expansion of the CertainTeed Gypsum plant in Sainte-Catherine, a new zero-carbon wallboard plant. The facility is now the first zero-carbon gypsum wallboard plant in North America, and the largest of its kind in the world. The project was initially announced in 2022 and underwent major electrification revamps, allowing the plant to run on renewable electricity. 

Upon completion, the expansion helped CertainTeed reduce CO2 emissions by 44,000 tons per year, roughly equivalent to 14,000 cars. The upgrade also marks the introduction of Infinaé’s CarbonLow, a new wallboard category in Canada said to produce up to 60% less embodied carbon cradle-to-gate. There will be upgraded electric heating elements replacing many of the natural gas burners, significantly contributing to the overall emissions impact. The smart technology upgrades include new energy meters and more robust management systems to monitor production performance and optimize continually. 

The facility upgrades also allow CertainTeed to decrease energy use by up to 30% while boosting production capacity by 40%. CarbonLow is now Saint-Gobain’s lowest-impact and highest-performing range of gypsum solutions, and is said to lead the charge in sustainable gypsum products produced in Canada. It offers Canadian consumers the chance to surpass current green building standards and respond to rising housing demand simultaneously. 

Another step toward sustainable building practices for Canadians

Around the world, businesses across all industries are making moves to reach new sustainability initiatives. For Canadians, sustainable housing and building practices have been growing in demand for quite some time. The housing crisis is driving an urgent need for millions of additional homes by 2030, and the country is turning to faster, more innovative building solutions, such as off-site construction (think prefabricated and modular homes) and eco-friendly materials like gypsum board.

These products and practices help Canadians collectively reach sustainability goals by producing less waste in the construction and design, especially at scale. A growing number of Canadian homebuyers and renovators are also prioritizing greener builds, leading to major developers looking to partner with more sustainable suppliers. Homeowners are also more inclined to opt for energy-efficient homes, partly because reduced utility bills save them money down the line. 

Sustainable housing construction can also help lower overall housing costs, which is particularly important amid a cost-of-living crisis. They do so by reducing long-term operational expenses, lowering prices due to increased build efficiency, and offering more competitive upfront construction costs. The use of sustainable materials like gypsum board will likely have a lesser impact on reducing housing costs than initiatives like prefabricated construction, but at scale, every effort in sustainability counts. 

CertainTeed was founded in 1904 and has long been a leader in sustainable residential building materials. They produce siding, roofing, and insulation outside of gypsum. Canadians can expect competitors to follow suit with sustainable efforts in their offerings, especially as companies strive to reach net-zero climate goals and produce more eco-conscious, ethically made materials. 

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Under the Hart Hat newsletter and follow us on LinkedIn to stay in the loop about sustainable developments around the world. 

Urban development is booming, and with that growth comes a big responsibility: the buildings we raise today shape our cities’ emissions for decades. Construction and building operations together account for a large share of urban greenhouse gas emissions, meaning every new project carries a carbon cost. Tackling those emissions in the construction phase gives cities a real chance at reaching net-zero targets. In this article, we’ll walk through how the building sector contributes to urban emissions, how decarbonizing construction methods supports net-zero cities, and what cities and industry players need to do next. 

Quick look

• Construction and building operations account for nearly 40% of global CO₂ emissions, making the sector central to net-zero goals.
• Embodied carbon from materials like cement and steel is now rivaling operational emissions from heating, cooling, and lighting.
• Decarbonizing construction means shifting to low-carbon materials, electric equipment, and energy-efficient design.
• Cleaner construction supports healthier cities, new green jobs, and alignment with climate investment policies.
• Achieving real progress will require stronger regulation, industry collaboration, and workforce education on sustainable methods.

Construction’s role in urban emissions

The built environment is responsible for a significant share of global emissions. According to data from the International Energy Agency (IEA), the operations and construction of buildings accounted for more than one-third of global energy-related carbon emissions. Additionally, a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report states that the buildings and construction sector accounts for about 37% of global greenhouse gas emissions. 

In urban areas, this means that every new high-rise, every infrastructure expansion, every housing complex adds to that total. Major emissions originate from the manufacturing of materials such as cement, steel, and aluminum, from the construction process itself, and from the ongoing energy use of the building—including heating, cooling, lighting, and ventilation. The “use phase” of a building generates high emissions in cities because of the density and intensity of activity. On top of that, the “make/build” phase adds embodied carbon that cannot be ignored.

Embodied vs operational carbon

Embodied carbon refers to the emissions generated upstream: extraction of raw materials, manufacturing, transport, construction, and eventual demolition or reuse of materials. Operational carbon refers to the emissions from energy use and services to operate the building over its lifetime.

In many older cities, operational carbon dominates because buildings were built with less efficient systems. However, as buildings become more efficient and grids shift toward renewables, embodied carbon becomes an increasingly larger share of emissions in new builds. That means if we only focus on reducing operational emissions, we still leave a large “hidden” carbon load in new construction.

Urban growth and infrastructure demand

Cities around the world continue to expand at a rapid pace. According to data from the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GABC), the global floor area is expected to grow significantly over the next few decades. 

This growth means more buildings, more materials, more construction sites, and more carbon. For cities planning infrastructure, that means decisions today matter for decades. If each new project uses high-carbon materials or inefficient methods, the cumulative carbon load can overwhelm emissions budgets. Tackling emissions in construction is no longer a “nice to have” but a necessity if cities are aiming for net-zero.

How decarbonizing construction enables net-zero cities

Reducing emissions in construction and building operations offers cities a path to reach their climate goals while growing. Cleaner construction methods mean less carbon locked in immediately, and better building design means less carbon emitted over the lifetime of the structure.

Reducing embodied carbon in materials

One of the first steps is to switch to low-carbon materials, such as low-carbon concrete mixes, recycled steel, and engineered timber. By choosing materials with lower upfront emissions, builders can reduce the carbon “spent” before occupancy. When cities adopt procurement standards that require low-embodied-carbon materials, the whole supply chain shifts. This matters because once embodied carbon is emitted, it cannot be undone—and that contributes to a city’s carbon budget for decades.

Electrifying equipment and transport

Construction sites themselves contribute to emissions through diesel-powered machines, trucks delivering materials, and the logistics of construction. Switching to electric power, utilizing renewable energy for site operations, and optimizing transport logistics reduce those emissions. In practice, moving away from diesel excavators and concrete mixers, and using battery-powered or hybrid alternatives, means construction becomes part of the decarbonization plan. When materials arrive via low-emission logistics, the entire build’s carbon footprint is reduced.

Designing for energy efficiency and reuse

Once a building is erected, its energy use often accounts for a large share of its lifetime emissions. Designing with passive features, efficient systems, and the potential for reuse or retrofit locks in lower operational carbon. Pulling in circular design—reusing parts of existing buildings, planning for adaptability, and designing for long service life—reduces the need for frequent rebuilds or replacements that generate fresh embodied carbon. For a city aiming for net-zero, buildings that use less energy, last longer, and can adapt to future needs reduce the load on urban energy systems, allowing for more aggressive climate targets.

The ripple effects for cities

Cleaner air and healthier communities

When construction emissions decrease and building operations become more efficient, cities experience improved air quality. Reducing on-site and building-system reliance on fossil fuels means fewer pollutants and better health outcomes for workers and residents.

Economic resilience and green jobs

Decarbonizing construction drives demand for new skills, including low-carbon materials, electric site equipment, retrofit specialists, and circular economy experts. That creates green jobs in cities and supports economic resilience as urban centres modernize.

Alignment with climate policy and investment

Cities with strong decarbonization strategies in construction attract investment from funds prioritising green infrastructure. When a municipality establishes rules regarding embodied carbon and efficient building design, developers tend to align. That means better project financing, lower risk, and a path for cities to meet their climate targets on time.

What needs to happen next

Stronger regulation and lifecycle carbon tracking

Regulations must require lifecycle carbon tracking—not just energy use once the building is occupied, but the carbon emitted from materials, construction, transport, and end-of-life. Cities need transparent standards for embodied carbon in buildings and procurement rules that make low-carbon materials the default.

Collaboration across supply chains

Manufacturers, builders, designers, and city planners must work together. Procurement, design, construction, operations—those phases cannot work in silos. If a developer orders low-carbon concrete but the subcontractor uses traditional logistics or site processes, the benefit is lost. Full supply-chain alignment is required.

Innovation and education in the workforce

The construction workforce must be trained in new methods: electric equipment, circular design, and low-carbon materials. Vocational training, site-based upskilling, and awareness campaigns need to match the technology. When the team on site understands why material choice matters and how the equipment works, projects run more smoothly and deliver carbon savings.

Final thoughts

Decarbonizing construction has more impact than many realize. Because buildings and infrastructure carry carbon from day one, the way we build matters just as much as how we power what we build. Cities that commit to low-carbon construction will set themselves ahead—and for architects, builders, and engineers, embracing smarter materials, cleaner equipment, and better design is how you deliver those cities.

For more on building smarter and cleaner, check out these articles on Canada’s first zero-carbon aquatic centre, biodiesel in construction, and biochar use.

If you’d like regular updates on construction-industry wellness, green building trends, and project case studies, subscribe to our newsletter at Under the Hard Hat. 

The state of Michigan has just introduced the Mass Timber Catalyst Program, an exciting new initiative to support early-stage projects using mass timber as a primary material. Through the program, developers, property owners, and design professionals with active Michigan-based projects can apply for grants ranging from $25,000 to $75,000 to support planning and design for mass timber construction.

Why is Michigan doing this now? For one, the state’s forest products economy already generates more than $26 billion annually, and officials believe mass timber can help expand that further. Mass timber is also increasingly recognized as a lower-carbon alternative to traditional building materials like concrete and steel. By offering financial incentives plus technical guidance, Michigan plans to bring the material into more commercial, industrial, institutional, and multifamily residential builds.

Here’s how it works: The program is open to properties or designs already commissioned (meaning the project is underway) and that are considering or prioritizing mass timber use. Projects can be in sectors like institutional/public, commercial, multifamily residential, or industrial. Applicants will receive grant money and join a cohort led by the organizations MassTimber@MSU and WoodWorks®, which will guide design, procurement, cost-estimating, and code approval phases. This kind of support is key because mass timber still has adoption hurdles, such as unfamiliarity in conventional construction, code or regulatory issues, and supply-chain constraints.

In addition to strengthening the forest economy, the program heralds Michigan’s ambition to position itself as a national leader in sustainable building. “By advancing this technology, we’re not only reducing the carbon footprint of our buildings but also strengthening local economies and re-imagining what’s possible for design and construction in our state,” said Cheri Holman, executive director of the Michigan Green Building Collaborative.

If you’re a developer, designer, or building owner in Michigan with a project in motion and are curious about using mass timber, this is a very timely opportunity. The grant and technical support can reduce early-stage risk and help you explore this sustainable material with more confidence.

To find out more and stay updated on future opportunities, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest construction-industry programs, funding, and innovation.

The lumber industry is seeing weaker demand in 2025, as the housing market slows from the pandemic-driven boom. In October of 2025, lumber prices are experiencing significant volatility amid the Trump administration’s new tariffs and supply chain disruptions. Despite the challenges, many lumber suppliers continue to thrive. In this article, we’ll detail the top lumber suppliers in the US by revenue, including Biewer Lumber, Hampton Affiliates, Sierra Pacific, and Weyerhaeuser. 

What do the top lumber suppliers make? 

Specific offerings may vary by company. Generally, lumber suppliers produce a range of softwood and hardwood products, including structural wood and wood flooring, as well as planks, pillars, and even wood chips and shavings. 

Lumber suppliers can typically be contacted through their sales departments on their home website. They may also have showrooms or brick-and-mortar locations with samples. 

The top 10 lumber companies (by revenue) in the US

10. Hampton Affiliates

• Market cap/revenue: est. $500 million
• Employees: 6,500
• CEO: Randy Schillinger
• Founded: 1942

What was once a modest company in Oregon in 1942 has now spread operations across the Pacific Northwest and Canada. Hampton Affiliates is an eco-conscious company specializing in carbon-friendly lumber products sourced from some of the most sustainably produced resources on the planet. 

Hampton’s lumber offering includes panels, cedar, studs, moulding, and dimensional lumber. They’re also community-focused, partnering with programs like Girls Build and Portland YouthBuilders.

9. Idaho Forest Group

• Market cap/revenue: $750 million
• Employees: 1,000
• CEO: Todd Brinkmeyer
• Founded: 2008

The first family-owned company on our list is Idaho Forest Group. Founded in 2008 and based in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, this company is dedicated to sustainability, community involvement, and the highest possible production quality standards. 

The company has six mills in Idaho and one in Mississippi. Their offering includes softwood lumber boarding, decking, flooring, and more. 

8. Biewer Lumber

• Market cap/revenue: $53.9 million to $99.6 million
• Employees: 282
• CEO: Tim Biewer
• Founded: 1980

Biewer Lumber, founded in 1980 by Tim Biewer, is a family business and has long been one of the largest lumber manufacturers in the US. The company delivers high-quality lumber from its high-tech, largely automated sawmills. The company prides itself on its extensive quality control, and in 2022, the Biewer production capacity was estimated at around 980 billion board feet. 

7. PotlatchDeltic

• Market cap/revenue: $1.06 billion
• Employees: 1,383
• CEO: Eric J. Cremers
• Founded: 1903

Founded in 1903 and led by CEO Eric J. Cremers, PotlatchDeltic originated along Idaho’s Palouse River and is headquartered in Spokane, Washington. The company boasts owning 2.1 million acres of timberland and manufactures and sells forest products, including particleboard, wood panels, and lumber. 

PotlatchDeltic owns six sawmills and operates in nine states, including Georgia, Alabama, Idaho, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, and South Carolina. The company also runs an industrial-grade plywood mill and a rural timberland sales program. PotlatchDeltic is committed to environmental responsibility and remains a leader in sustainable forest management.

6. Sierra Pacific 

• Market cap/revenue: $1.5 billion
• Employees: 5,000
• CEO: Mark Emmerson
• Founded: 1949

Founded in 1949 and headquartered in Anderson, California, Sierra Pacific offers a wide range of lumber and window products. The company has manufacturing locations in Alabama, California, Oregon, Washington, and more. The company lists the forests from which it sources its materials to support transparency to its customers. 

Sierra Pacific is dedicated to sustainability and practices ethical forestry management that closely mimics natural events. Their offering includes doors, mouldings, fencing, bark and chip products, and more. 

5. Interfor

• Market cap/revenue: $2.95 billion
• Employees: 4,419
• CEO: Ian Fillinger
• Founded: 1963

Initially founded in 1963 as Yorkston Lumber Company in British Columbia, the company became Interfor in 1988. They’ve since grown to 28 state-of-the-art facilities across North America, with American locations in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Oregon, and Mississippi. 

Interfor’s offering includes specialty lumber, structural lumber, dimensional lumber, and more. They also prioritize sustainable forestry management and the safety and ethical treatment of employees as part of their core mission.

4. Canfor

• Market cap/revenue: $5.25 billion
• Employees: Over 6,500
• CEO: Susan Yurkovich
• Founded: 1938

Founded in 1938, Canfor specializes not just in lumber but also in pulp, paper, and other sustainable wood products. They strive to improve forests and people’s lives, with locations across the Southeastern US, Western Canada, and Sweden.

Canfor boasts the only woman CEO on our list, Susan Yurkovich, and the company makes it a priority to champion diversity and inclusion, as well as indigenous relations. 

3. West Fraser

• Market cap/revenue: $6.45 billion
• Employees: 10,000
• CEO: Sean McLaren
• Founded: 1955

Another company with roots in British Columbia is West Fraser. Since its Canadian founding in 1955, West Fraser has grown into 61 sawmills worldwide and 50 facilities across Canada, Europe, and America. The West Fraser team focuses on ethical leadership, teamwork, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

Their offering includes two primary products: SPF Lumber and Southern Yellow Pine Oriented Strand Board (OSB). 

2. Weyerhaeuser

• Market cap/revenue: $7.67 billion
• Employees: 9440
• CEO: Devin W. Stockfish
• Founded: 1900

The oldest lumber company on our list is none other than Weyerhaeuser. Founded in 1900 in Washington, the company operates many manufacturing locations across Canada and the United States. The company prioritizes sustainability, having partnered with various companies to reduce carbon emissions and source its products with minimal impact on forests. 

Aside from lumber, OSB, plywood, and MDF materials, the company also offers seedlings for purchase. The team also emphasizes safety, integrity, and inclusion as core values. 

1. Georgia-Pacific Co.

• Market cap/revenue: est. over $25 billion
• Employees: 30,000
• CEO: Mark Luetters (Interim)
• Founded: 1927

Georgia-Pacific Co. balances prioritizing consumer wellness and product innovation. The company, founded in 1927, specializes in a range of products including flooring, sub-flooring, roofs, walls, and ceilings. They also produce some of the most well-known household product brands, such as Brawny paper towels and Dixie paperware. 

Their wood products are made at 21 manufacturing locations across America, making it not only the company with the most revenue on our list but also one of the most widespread manufacturers. 

Subscribe to the Under the Hard Hat newsletter or follow us on LinkedIn to stay looped in about the top companies in AEC.