The environmental impact of fencing can be significant especially if it’s not manufactured from sustainable materials or built to last. That's why more homeowners are turning to sustainable fencing to create greener homes.
Sustainable fencing is designed with the environment in mind, from the raw materials to product lifecycle. Eurocell’s eco fencing, for example, doesn’t need harsh chemicals for upkeep, nor does it require regular replacements.
Summary:
- Sustainable fencing is manufactured using sustainable materials and processes
- EcoScape Clarity Composite fence panels are manufactured using 95% recycled materials, are low maintenance, long lasting and recyclable
- Eurocell’s Eco Fence is also a sustainable option because it’s built from at least 75% recycled materials
- Sustainably-sourced timber is a good option but it does need chemicals for maintenance and it might be harder to recycle at the end of its life.
Sustainable fencing options
Sustainable fencing is built using sustainable materials and production methods. But the longevity of a fence is also crucial to sustainability as it will help to prevent waste and deforestation. For example, a bamboo fence is prone to rot or crack over time, so it may need replacing more often compared to a composite fence. Over time, this can increase emissions associated with production and delivery (especially if the raw materials are imported).
Composite
Composite fencing is one of the best options for homeowners who want to reduce their home’s carbon footprint. While the production process can be energy intensive, this can be offset if the fences are built from recycled materials.
Clarity fencing from Ecoscape contains 95% recycled materials, helping to prevent materials going into landfill or incineration. The composite fence panels are manufactured from wood and plastic, so they’re very durable and lightweight.
Eurocell’s Eco Fence is also manufactured from 75% recycled PVC-U, which can be recycled again and again lowering its carbon footprint. Eurocell has the largest PVC-U recycling operation in the UK.
One of the biggest advantages of composite is, it doesn’t need hazardous chemicals like paint, stain or sealing for upkeep, unlike wooden or bamboo fencing. These chemicals, while they protect your fence, can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the surrounding space contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and endangering local wildlife.
There aren’t any imperfections like knots or risk of rotting/warping, so the composite panels last longer. This way, you won’t need to replace your fence as often lowering emissions associated with production and delivery.
Eco fencing at Eurocell comes in grey, natural and walnut – great shades if you want to create an earthy vibe in your garden.
Bamboo
Bamboo is the world’s fastest growing plant, so it’s in almost constant source, which makes it a good sustainable fence material.
The bamboo poles are arranged together in different styles and secured using a rope or wire. Bamboo makes for a pretty, natural looking fence, and it’s biodegradable, releasing 35% more oxygen compared to other trees.
However, it does need treating otherwise it can rot, crack, warp and fade overtime, similar to timber. The need for treatments and upkeep with chemicals does knock it down in terms of its sustainability. In the UK, bamboo is also typically imported from countries like China, so the material may also have a lengthy carbon footprint.
If you’re looking to get bamboo fencing, double check that it’s been sustainably sourced. The UK’s Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has a certification system to ensure suppliers support responsible forestry.
Sustainably-sourced timber
Natural timber isn’t the best sustainable option, especially softwood, which only lasts around 5-10 years and is prone to issues like mould, cracking, warping and rotting.
But you can get sustainably-sourced timber, which comes with a FSC certification, demonstrating that it’s been harvested responsibly. This will still need treatment to prevent common issues like rotting, and maintenance like staining, sealing and painting, which can be harmful to the environment.
Although it’s been harvested from forests that have been managed responsibly, it still contributes to deforestation – and the energy needed to harvest and transport it can be high. But it provides a natural alternative to normal timber and has a reduced carbon footprint.
Greenery
Trees or hedges can be planted to provide a natural, green fence. These can also improve air quality and support local habitats. Evergreen trees are a good option because they can improve privacy and block out noise.
But any bushes or trees you plant will need regular trimming to prevent overgrowth (in your neighbour’s garden too) – and they may shed, so regular raking is required. Some trees may also take years to grow to the correct size, so may not be suitable if you want privacy immediately.
Consider using greenery as a fence in smaller parts of your garden. This way, your maintenance will be lower and your garden will be more secure.
Sustainable fencing comparison
All of the materials mentioned are great options if you want a sustainable fence – not only can they be recycled, they look aesthetically pleasing and natural.
However, composite fencing is one of the best sustainable options. It’s long lasting, low maintenance, cost effective and it can be easily recycled, compared to treated materials, which can only be recycled at specialist centres.
|
Feature |
Composite | Bamboo | Sustainable-Sourced Wood | Greenery |
| Durability | 20+ years | 5+ years | 5+ years | 15+ years |
| Maintenance | None | Treatment | Treatment | Trimming |
| Chemicals needed | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Cost per panel (2025) | From £18 | Around £60 | Around £70 | Around £250 per small tree |
| Recyclable | Yes | Special handling needed if treated | Special handling needed if treated | Yes |
Buying and installing a sustainable fence
Investing in a fence in general is a big decision but when you’re considering sustainability, it requires more care. Research how and where the materials were sourced, and the maintenance, as it all plays a part in its carbon footprint. Consider these factors:
- Sustainable materials
- Imported
- Recyclable
- Production process
- Upkeep
- Installation
Eurocell’s composite fences come ready to install, without the need for treatments, and they’re strong and durable. Homeowners can choose from the EcoScape Clarity range (built from 95% recycled materials) or the Eco Fence (built from at least 75% recycled materials).
The fences are resistant to rotting, warping or cracking, and the colour is added during manufacture, so they don’t need painting or staining.
Explore Eurocell’s Eco Fence range and EcoScape Clarity Composite fencing.
