Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the difference between the physical characteristics of hardwood and softwood trees and identify a minimum of two species for each.
2. Identify the preferred harvesting method used in responsible forest management of American hardwoods and cite a minimum of two of its positive effects in sustainable timber production and the forest eco-system.
3. Explain the key points of the carbon cycle as it relates to hardwoods’ impact on the environment through its entire life-cycle process, from healthy forests to finished products.
4. List documented environmental attributes that identify American hardwoods as a comparatively favorable carbon neutral building material.
5. Agree that specifying American hardwoods in the material selection process plays a significant role in carbon neutral design