Green Outdoor ConstructionThere are a number of environmental concerns when we consider green outdoor construction projects such as fences, decks, storage sheds, plant containers, or playground areas. The consideration which will affect the environment most is the materials we use. Traditionally we probably used pine or cedar and then more recently, treated lumber. There are also increasingly more plastic products made from recycled plastics. Cedar has always been a good choice because it resists decay due to the natural oils in the wood. If left unfinished, it will develop a weathered look and last a long time. We can look for an indication that the supplier is a member of the forest stewardship council for the reassurance that the wood was harvested responsibly. Another wood option is treated lumber. Retailers may list them as "ACQ" or "Kodiak Wood", or they may be listed as preserved with ACQ (Ammoniacial Copper Quaternary), copper azole and/or copper citrate. These materials are believed to be safe. This pressure treated lumber replaces CCA (Chromated Copper Arsenic) pressure treated lumber or may have been sold under the name "Wolmanized”. It was removed from the market in 2003 in Canada. This product was extremely toxic, due to the ounce of arsenic forced into a 12 foot 2 by 6 inch piece of wood. Amounts of poison can be released by cutting, shaving, touching or burning. A teaspoon of ash from burned CCA pressure treated wood is enough to kill a person. Even after years the wood will continue to release arsenic into the ground under decks etc. Any play structures, decks, fences, etc., constructed of this material must be disposed of with care as hazardous waste. Vegetables cannot be grown in any affected area as they will take up the arsenic from the soil. The most recent option for green outdoor construction may be in some ways the best choice. These products are made from recycled plastics or recycled plastics and wood fibre. They are environment friendly in a few ways. They are made from material that otherwise would have ended up in land-fill sites. They will last a long time and can be recycled at the end of their current use. Finally, they come in a variety of colours and so do not need to be finished or painted, which can come with its own environmental issues. They are attractively made and are very durable.
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