BCC Research forecasts growth for recycled wood market

According to a recent study from BCC Research, the global wood waste recycling market was valued at $14.1 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $19.5 billion by the end of 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate of 6 percent from 2025-30.

The Boston-based firm’s report, Wood Waste Recycling: Global Markets, offers a comprehensive review of the global market for wood waste recycling from 2024-30, segmenting the market by type (solid wood, plywood and wood chips), grade (A to C), process (mechanical, thermal, chemical), source (industrial, commercial, residential) and application (construction, furniture, energy generation).

BCC Research says the report is especially relevant thanks to the rapid rise in construction and demolition (C&D) waste, which it says has become one of the largest waste streams in both developed and rapidly growing economies.

The firm added that wood makes up a significant portion of this waste, between 20-30 percent in many regions, ranking second only to concrete. As a result, the wood recycling industry is experiencing accelerated growth, driven by the urgent need to manage this expanding waste stream sustainably and efficiently.

As global consumption of wood products rises, driven by sectors like construction, furniture and packaging, there is a growing need for sustainable sources. BCC Research says wood waste recycling helps meet this demand by supplying reclaimed wood, reducing pressure on forests and reducing environmental impact.

Governments worldwide are enforcing tighter regulations on waste disposal, especially in landfills. According to BCC Research, these policies encourage recycling and reuse, making wood waste recycling a necessary and compliant solution for industries to manage their waste responsibly.

The expansion of urban infrastructure and renovation projects generates large volumes of wood waste. BCC Research says recycling this C&D waste not only reduces landfill burden but also provides a steady stream of recyclable wood materials for various applications.

The report also indicates that sustainable construction practices are gaining momentum, with green buildings emphasizing the use of eco-friendly and recycled materials. Recycled wood fits well into these frameworks, promoting energy efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint of building projects.

The bioeconomy encourages the use of renewable biological resources for producing energy, chemicals and materials. The report says wood waste serves as a valuable input for bio-based products like biofuels and bioplastics, supporting circular economy goals and reducing reliance on fossil resources.