96% of UK Waste Wood Reused or Recycled in 2024, Reports WRA
The UK’s waste wood sector continues to perform strongly, with new figures from the Wood Recyclers’ Association (WRA) showing that over 96% of all waste wood generated in 2024 was successfully reused, recycled, or recovered.
The WRA, which represents operators handling around 90% of the waste wood in the UK, compiled the data via its annual member survey combined with wider market intelligence. In total, 4.5 million tonnes of waste wood were generated last year, with 4.33 million tonnes diverted from landfill.
Biomass and Board Industries Drive Demand
The biomass energy sector maintained its dominant position, accounting for 2.8 million tonnes – or 65% – of all waste wood use, unchanged from the previous year. This continues to highlight biomass as a reliable end market for processed timber waste.
The panel board industry, which manufactures wood-based construction and furniture materials, came in second, processing around 920,000 tonnes (21%). However, this marked a slight decline of 4.5% year-on-year. The WRA attributes this drop to the downturn in housebuilding and the closure of West Fraser’s South Molton plant.
Recycling and Reuse Down Due to External Factors
A noticeable decline was seen in the use of waste wood for animal bedding, equine surfacing, and similar reuse applications, which fell by 11% to 310,000 tonnes. The WRA cites two key factors: lower demand from the poultry sector due to avian flu, and a slowdown in construction activity.
Imports and Exports on the Rise
While the domestic market stayed relatively stable, net exports/imports grew by 2.8%, totalling 211,000 tonnes, or 5% of the market. This increase was driven by rising demand from European biomass operators, reflecting the value of UK waste wood in international fuel markets.
Small-scale biomass usage held steady at 90,000 tonnes, equating to 2% of total material.
Sector Stability, but Calls for Flexibility
Julia Turner, executive director of the WRA, expressed confidence in the current state of the market:
“The UK’s waste wood sector is in good health, with mature, compliant end markets ensuring almost all material is put to productive use.”
However, Turner also highlighted the need for flexibility from regulators. She urged the Environment Agency to ensure that Regulatory Position Statement 352 does not overly restrict the ability of sites to store wood over the summer months.
“To meet winter demand, businesses must be able to store wood responsibly during quieter months. A balanced regulatory approach is vital for maintaining supply and environmental compliance.”