From Sweden to Chile: Insights to Accelerate Timber Construction
On April 22, the Official Residence of Sweden in Chile hosted a strategic conversation about the future of construction in the country.
Discover how mass timber is revolutionizing sustainable and resilient construction. Learn about its carbon capture, seismic resistance, and ability to create healthy indoor environments, positioning it as a key material in modern architecture.
One of the most remarkable advantages of mass timber is its ability to capture and store carbon dioxide (CO2). As trees grow, they absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and store it within their structure, reducing the presence of this greenhouse gas in the environment. This process, known as carbon sequestration, makes mass timber a construction material that actively contributes to climate change mitigation. Additionally, by using wood from sustainably managed forests, we ensure the continuous regeneration of this natural resource.
Seismic resistance is another feature that makes mass timber an ideal choice for earthquake-prone areas. The flexibility and light weight of wood allow structures to better absorb and dissipate seismic energy, reducing the risk of severe damage during an earthquake. Moreover, the assembly techniques used in mass timber construction, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels and glued laminated timber (Glulam) beams, enhance structural stability and resilience against lateral forces.
Mass timber construction provides not only environmental and structural benefits but also significantly improves occupant comfort and well-being. Mass timber has the unique ability to regulate indoor humidity, creating healthier, more comfortable spaces. This material acts as a natural humidity regulator, absorbing excess moisture from the air and releasing it when the environment becomes dry. This helps maintain optimal humidity levels, reducing allergens and improving indoor air quality.
Mass timber stands as an all-encompassing solution for future construction, combining environmental sustainability, structural safety, and occupant well-being. Its CO2 capture, seismic resistance, and contribution to healthy microclimates make it an ideal building material to meet the industry’s current and future challenges. Choosing mass timber means opting for not only greener construction but also for more resilient, comfortable buildings.
On April 22, the Official Residence of Sweden in Chile hosted a strategic conversation about the future of construction in the country.
El Claro Arena ya es oficialmente el Building of the Year 2026. El reconocimiento otorgado por ArchDaily en la categoría de Arquitectura Deportiva no solo celebra la excelencia arquitectónica del proyecto, sino que posiciona a Chile en lo más alto de la escena internacional de la construcción sostenible.
More than 1,200 m³ of laminated timber will shape the new UWC campus, designed under sustainability and well-being standards within a high environmental value setting.