Urban trees don't have to become waste. With the right approach, they can be transformed into sustainable, high-quality wood products that reduce carbon footprints and strengthen local communities.

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Paul Hickman, founder of Urban Ashes, to explore the critical importance of urban wood utilization. Paul shares his fascinating journey from the scenic arts industry to creating sustainable products from urban wood, with a particular focus on ash trees affected by the devastating Emerald Ash Borer. His work demonstrates how trees that would otherwise end up in landfills can become valuable resources for woodworkers, builders, and communities.

You'll hear about the Urban Wood Project and its impact on local communities, Paul's transition from manufacturing wood products to consulting and education, and why urban wood utilization is essential for reducing carbon footprints. Paul emphasizes the need for increased education and awareness about urban wood, the importance of establishing industry standards, and the valuable role organizations like the Climate Smart Wood Group play in promoting sustainable practices.

This conversation dives into both the challenges and opportunities facing the urban wood movement, from building market demand to creating infrastructure that supports salvage and milling operations. Whether you're a woodworker looking for sustainable materials, interested in urban forestry and environmental impact, or curious about how communities can turn a tree crisis into economic opportunity, this episode offers compelling insights and actionable ideas.

Tune in to discover how urban wood utilization is revolutionizing sustainability in the wood industry and creating new possibilities for local economies, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about innovation and sustainability in woodworking and forestry.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Urban Wood Utilization

02:52 Paul Hickman's Journey into Urban Wood

06:01 The Evolution of Urban Ashes

09:03 Urban Wood Project and Community Impact

12:01 Transitioning from Manufacturing to Consulting

14:54 Urban Wood Utilization and Carbon Footprint

17:50 Challenges and Opportunities in Urban Wood

21:06 Education and Standards in Urban Wood

23:52 Future of Urban Wood and Climate Smart Wood Group

26:55 Conclusion and Call to Action

The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger 

For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com

See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com

Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawmillsnearme/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork

You can connect with Paul at:

https://www.urbanashes.com/

https://www.instagram.com/urbanashes/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmhickman