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Opinion
Wood-based innovations are reshaping home construction
We are used to using wood as a building material in our houses. However, it has become a promising material in the pursuit of more sustainable solutions in a variety of usage cases inside forward-looking buildings and decoration practices, four industry leaders state.
By Terja Koskenoja, Niklas von Weymarn, Hanna Johansson, Tage Johansson
15 Aug 2024

About the authors

Terja Koskenoja is the CEO of Woodio Oy, bathroom furniture and wall and surface panelling material from wood composite. Niklas von Weymarn is the CEO of Metsä Spring, working to develop new business opportunities related to wood-based value chains. Hanna Johansson is co-founder and CEO of Adsorbi, developing bio-based materials for air pollutants and odour removal by using cellulose. Tage Johansson is the CEO of Finnish Fiberwood. The insulation and packaging material is made from wood pulp and side streams of the mechanical wood industry.

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The significance of wood goes beyond the mere substitution of carbon-intensive materials; it holds the potential to revolutionise the industry by serving as both a building material and a carbon sink.

Market need is a must

Developing new wood-based materials is however a complex and lengthy process. These innovations often require significant, high-risk investments, and can take up to ten years to reach the market. This ”deep tech” nature of the field presents a major hurdle for the industry as a whole. 

Deep tech projects demand significant patience as profitability often lies years in the future. Building a strong team is essential to navigate the inevitable obstacles and adapt to challenges. Moreover, the product must address a genuine market need. Creating demand from scratch is exceptionally difficult; therefore, a pre-existing market is crucial for success.

Carbon sequestration — nature’s ally in construction

Wood-based materials are crucial to creating a sustainable future. One of the most compelling aspects of wood is its innate ability to sequester carbon dioxide, a key contributor to climate change. Unlike traditional construction materials that release carbon during production, wood retains carbon throughout much of its lifespan. By using wood in construction, we not only reduce carbon emissions but also actively store carbon, effectively turning buildings into carbon sinks.

New and innovative applications with wood-based materials

Beyond its environmental benefits, wood offers a plethora of innovative applications that contribute to healthier indoor environments and reduced environmental impact. Take, for instance, the utilisation of wood-derived cellulose in construction materials. Cellulose can essentially replace traditional, fossil-based activated carbon in air filters and last three times longer. This does not only lead to climate impact reductions but also reduces the need for maintenance and filter replacements. Wood not only provides structural support but also excels in capturing and storing air pollutants, thereby improving indoor air quality and safeguarding human health. 

Similarly, advancements in insulation technology have led to the development of bio-based, plastic-free insulation boards made from wood fibres. The wood industry’s by-products and side-streams can be transformed into economical, eco-friendly products. Not only are these products recyclable and biodegradable, but they also possess excellent insulation capabilities, contributing to energy efficiency in buildings while actively sequestering carbon. These insulation and structural building materials are decidedly better for both people and the environment compared to mineral wool or plastic.

Moreover, the emergence of wood-based composite materials opens up new avenues for sustainable design. From washbasins to flooring, these products offer durability, versatility, and a significantly lower carbon impact compared to traditional alternatives. By embracing these innovations, we not only reduce our reliance on fossil fuel-intensive materials but also promote the circular economy by utilising renewable resources.

A path to sustainable construction

The integration of wood-based products in housing is not merely a trend; it’s a necessity in our journey toward a more sustainable future. By choosing wood over conventional materials, we actively contribute to environmental preservation, mitigate climate change, and foster healthier living environments.

Wood-based materials excel in applications where they offer a competitive advantage. Often, this involves hybrid solutions combining wood with other materials. However, a significant challenge is the slow pace of regulations and standards compared to the rapid development of new wood-based products.

As we look to the future, it’s imperative that we prioritise the adoption of wood in construction practices. Through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to sustainability, we can harness the full potential of wood as a primary building material, paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally conscious industry.

Selecting the best material for each specific application in construction is crucial for achieving both efficiency and sustainability. Wood often serves as an excellent component. When combined with other materials, such as concrete, for foundational stability and weather resistance, wood can significantly enhance a building’s overall performance, comfort of living, and eco-friendliness.

Finding alternatives

There is a growing demand for sustainable alternatives. Not least when it comes to traditional plastics. While not all plastics can be replaced, wood-based materials offer a promising path toward reducing plastic consumption and environmental impact.

Wood is a natural choice for construction, offering numerous advantages in building homes. Beyond its traditional uses in boards and paper, wood-based materials also hold immense potential in innovative sectors such as textile fibres and advanced packaging solutions. 

Thus, let’s not view wood as just another material but as a catalyst for change. A cornerstone that holds the key to a greener, healthier, and more resilient built environment. And, not just an option but the foundation of sustainable living.

Terja Koskenoja

Niklas von Weymarn

Hanna Johansson

Tage Johansson