Wood is a versatile and renewable resource that has been used for centuries in construction, furniture, and other applications. However, the way we dispose of wood can have a significant impact on the environment.
In particular, treated wood that has been chemically treated to prevent decay or pests can pose a risk if not disposed of responsibly. In this article, we'll explore the impact of landfilling treated wood and the alternatives that are available.
Treated Wood and Its Risks
Treated wood is a type of wood that has been impregnated with chemicals to make it resistant to rot, insects, and other types of damage. This treatment is essential to extend the lifespan of the wood, but it also means that the wood cannot be disposed of in the same way as untreated wood. The chemicals used in the treatment process can leach into the soil and groundwater if the wood is not disposed of properly, causing pollution and potential health risks.
We can’t avoid to mention the huge risks for health and environment if this waste wood is burned as well!
The most common chemicals used in the treatment process include copper, chromium, and arsenic. These chemicals can be toxic in high concentrations, and they can also bioaccumulate in the environment, meaning that they can build up in the bodies of animals and humans over time. Exposure to these chemicals can cause a range of health problems, including skin irritation, respiratory problems, and even cancer.
Landfilling Treated Wood
One of the most common ways of disposing of treated wood is by landfilling it. However, this method can have significant environmental impacts. When treated wood is buried in a landfill, the chemicals used in the treatment process can leach out into the soil and groundwater, contaminating the surrounding environment.
The chemicals can also react with other materials in the landfill, producing toxic gases such as hydrogen sulphide and methane. These gases can pose a risk to human health and contribute to global warming.
Furthermore, treated wood takes a long time to decompose, meaning that it can occupy landfill space for many years. This can lead to a shortage of landfill space and increase the cost of waste disposal. In some cases, landfill operators may refuse to accept treated wood, forcing individuals and businesses to find alternative disposal methods.
Alternatives to Landfilling Treated Wood
Fortunately, there are several alternatives to landfilling treated wood that can help reduce the environmental impact of wood disposal. One option is to recycle the wood. Treated wood can be ground down and used as a source of biomass energy, which can help reduce the use of fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The recycled wood can also be used to make new products, such as particleboard, mulch, and animal bedding.
Another option is to reuse the wood. Treated wood can be used for non-structural applications, such as garden beds, retaining walls, and fencing. However, it's important to note that the wood should not be used for applications where it will come into contact with food, such as garden beds for vegetable gardens. This is however possible with untreated wood such as the one Kaltimber salvaged from Kalimantan. The wood’s own amazing properties made it unnecessary to be treated.
Finally, treated wood can be sent to specialised facilities that can dispose of it safely. These facilities use a variety of methods to render the wood non-hazardous, such as high-temperature incineration, chemical treatment, or thermal desorption. Once the wood has been treated, it can be safely disposed of in a landfill or used for other applications.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the way we dispose of treated wood can have significant environmental impacts. Landfilling treated wood can lead to pollution, health risks, and a shortage of landfill space. However, there are several alternatives to landfilling that can help reduce the impact of wood disposal, including recycling, reusing, and specialised disposal facilities