Facing Some Challenges on Wooden Construction in Parana State, Brazil

Jorge Daniel de Melo Moura

Department of Architecture and Urban Design, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Brazil

Abstract: The state of Paraná is a major producer of plantation wood and forest products. The sector is responsible for one of the largest volumes of exports only behind the automotive industry. Many cities in the state were established thanks to the huge availability of natural forest timber; Peroba (Aspidospermapolyneuron) in the north and Araucaria pine (Araucáriaangustifolia) in the southern colder regions , not to mention a large number of native species with potential for reforestation. Despite this, timber construction has not been properly developed and what is observed is the complete replacement of timber for masonry construction. This paper points out some reasons for the current situation and lists some important challenges to be faced to replace wood as technically reliable and

commercially competitive material for construction. Important works are presented in a number of areas already developed and under development in Paraná state, Brazil.

Key words: lumber, wooden construction, sustainable development