Carbon sequestration and the forest sector: Implementing an additional project based on wood products in the construction sector

The aim of the paper is to analyse the implementation of a climate change mitigation strategy for the forest sector. We suggest a strategy based on an increased storage capacity in wood products. An additional resource is provided by recycling and a reallocation of timber usages. In the first part of the paper, the additionality notion (“Kyoto meaning”) is discussed (environmental and economic aspects). Then a case study is conducted on the “Landes de Gascogne forest”. The project is assessed on the basis of additional carbon storage and on the basis of avoided emissions, as wood can replace CO2 intensive materials (concrete, steel). Results will be useful in view of the discussions dealing with the post 2012 Kyoto period and the possible inclusion of wood products in the carbon stocks.