UPM-Biofore-Magazine-2-2019

WOOD IS A BEAUTIFUL material that can be used in a number of ways. It feels warm under the feet and, according to studies, having timber decor at home also has health benefits.

for nearly 40% of energy-related carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emissions. Increasing the use of sustainably farmed wood is an effective solution as they grow, meaning that wooden buildings provide long-term carbon storage. “I think timber construction is a great example of long-term planning for sustainable economic growth, as it acknowledges the necessity to reduce emissions,” says Heinonen. “Wooden buildings express environmental values. Wood as a material is also a metaphor for nature, forests, health, beauty and warmth.” to the challenge of emission reduction. Trees absorb CO 2

conveyed by futuristic buildings in Europe and Asia. She is currently studying climate-neutral and smart cities in a project forming part of the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme on research and innovation. Newmetaphors are indeed relevant, because the construction industry is facing immense pressure to change. Urbanisation and population growth are generating demand for new housing and work space, but climate change requires urgent action to reduce emissions. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the construction industry accounts

“Wooden buildings express environmental values. Wood as a material is also a metaphor for nature, forests, health, beauty and warmth.”

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