June 30, 2026
SLB Generates 514 MM BF of Incremental Demand in Q1
The SLB has released its Q1 2026 Report, highlighting strong early progress as the organization continues implementing its strategic plan, From Niche to Mainstream. In the first quarter of 2026, SLB-funded programs advanced efforts to strengthen wood’s competitive position through project conversions, code advocacy, education, and targeted market engagement across high-opportunity sectors—including multifamily, commercial, education, and industrial construction.
Key Q3 highlights include:
- SLB-funded programs generated 514 MM BF of incremental lumber demand in Q1, putting the organization on track toward its 2026 goal of 1,350 MM BF. Programs influenced 410 projects representing 22 million square feet of construction.
- The environmental benefit of increased lumber use in Q1 included 430,000 metric tons of CO₂ stored and 900,000 metric tons of CO₂ avoided, delivering a total carbon benefit of 1.33 million metric tons of CO₂.
- SLB Education continued expanding wood design education nationwide through faculty workshops, field trip sponsorships, and new curriculum resources, helping more students and educators gain practical knowledge of lumber-based building systems.
- WoodWorks influenced 105 projects directly and 410 projects directly or indirectly, generating 222 MM BF of incremental lumber demand. Its technical support helped advance wood adoption in K–12 schools, taller light-frame multifamily projects, and mass timber developments.
- Think Wood continued strengthening market preference for wood through targeted content, case studies, and experiential trade show activations, adding 4,876 new contacts and improving lead conversion to 44%.
- The American Wood Council (AWC) delivered important code and standards wins during the 2027 I-Code cycle, helping protect market access for wood products while preventing unnecessary construction costs that could disadvantage lumber-based construction.
- New strategic initiatives like the Accelerator Cities Program and AI-driven tools are helping the SLB and its funded programs scale expertise, improve responsiveness, and unlock new demand in priority regional markets.
For full program updates, additional stories, and more detail on Q1 results, view the Q1 2026 Report below. As always, we welcome industry feedback at info@softwoodlumberboard.org.