Sustainability is at the core of all we do at DHH.
When used responsibly, we believe that wood is by far the most eco-friendly building material on the planet – and that sustainable wood production must play a key role when building for the future.
Wood has a lighter carbon footprint than both steel and concrete – and still continues to absorb and store CO2 from the atmosphere even after felling. As one of the only renewable building materials available worldwide that’s also biodegradable, wood is an effective alternative to other construction materials. Additionally, we also have a Carbon Statement, and are committed to reducing our own carbon footprint.
Responsible & Sustainable Sourcing
Our procurement process is built around strict due diligence and full supply chain visibility. Doing so gives our customers confidence in the origin, legality and integrity of every product. We also ensure compliance with the UK Timber Regulations (UKTR) through:
- Supply chain risk assessment
- Supplier verification (including regular factory visits)
- Traceability and documentation checks
We also hold FSC® (FSC-C002826) and PEFC Chain of Custody certification, enabling certified timber to be tracked from the forest to end user. These globally recognised standards ensure forests are managed responsibly. This then protects biodiversity, supports communities, and secures long-term sustainability.
Commitment to the UK Timber Trade
As members of Timber Development UK (TDUK), we follow the TDUK Responsible Purchasing Policy. This helps us identify and avoid high-risk or non-compliant sources. Our involvement supports transparency and higher standards across the UK timber industry.
Additionally, we take an active role in addressing risks within the timber supply chain. This includes being at the forefront of raising awareness surrounding birch plywood of suspicious or illegal origin entering the UK market. This is a key issue affecting compliance and fair competition. Our work includes:
- Industry webinars and Q&A sessions
- Customer presentations and guidance
- Speaking at industry events
- Engagement with trade bodies / stakeholders
- Raising the issue with UK government, MPs and embassies.
We believe strong supply chain integrity is essential for both sustainability and a fair, transparent market.
Environmental Responsibility
We’re also committed to reducing our overall environmental impact through a range of processes. This includes across our operations, supply chain and logistics activities:
- Efficient operations and logistics
- Responsible waste management
- Supporting circular timber use
- Ongoing carbon footprint measurement and review
We actively measure and monitor our carbon footprint and are continually seeking ways to reduce our environmental impact. By understanding our emissions, we can identify opportunities for improvement. We can then implement meaningful actions that support our long-term sustainability objectives.
Supporting Communities & Circular Impact
DHH also supports local communities and sustainable initiatives; as part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring circular impact. This includes supporting grassroot sports, and the use of green spaces. At present, we currently sponsor both Rayleigh Cricket Club and Westcliff Rugby Club in Essex.
We’re additionally proud to support New Life Wood. They are a registered charity that provides local employment opportunities via their community wood recycling project in Basildon, Essex. The charity has volunteers that collect, recycle and repurpose timber that would have otherwise gone to landfill.
From time to time, we also donate surplus stock to community projects around the UK. This stops perfectly good wood panels from being wasted, whilst helping worthy local causes. Recent projects include the Friends of Upminster Windmill and the East Anglia Transport Museum.
