Partnership Between Stora Enos and Technical University of Munich Promotes the Wellbeing Benefits of Wood

Working in partnership with the Technical University of Munich, Stora Enso Wood Products has launched a whitepaper showcasing the science behind the health and well-being benefits of building with timber. The in-depth literature review highlights such points as wood’s ability to reduce stress and boost productivity levels. This includes a decrease in cortisol levels by 7.5%, implying a stress-reducing effect. Other aspects mentioned in the whitepaper include the ability of wooden classrooms to significantly lower heart rates and lower perception of stress. In addition, studies showing Coronaviruses (SARS -CoV-2) applied to wooden surfaces can only be replicated for 12 hours, whereas on surfaces made of plastic, stainless steel, glass and masonry, the viruses remain multipliable for up to 96 hours. Sebastian Hernandez, building concepts manager, Building Solutions, Stora Enso Wood Products, said the health and wellbeing aspects of wood are often underappreciated compared to its CO2 emission reducing advantages. “There is still a lot to learn in this field. And with the role the construction industry plays in societal impact in acute focus, we hope that our study spurs an increased interest in research in the future.”