This paper presents the practical issues that affect timber waste in UK construction. It describes timber sources, composition, use and waste, and markets for recycling and disposal together with the plant and machinery necessary to exploit this resource. It proposes a timber waste classification. The various types of equipment for processing waste timber are listed; legislation covering the disposal of waste timber is briefly mentioned. This material is then drawn together to provide the best practicable environmental option for timber waste; a model is tested to provide two examples of what could be achieved. The paper concludes with some suggestions of best practice for timber waste management and how these can be addressed by industry. 12 pages.