As global warming intensifies, efficient cooling solutions are urgently needed. Buildings, responsible for one-third of global carbon emissions, rely heavily on air conditioning and non-sustainable materials. The COOLWOOD project explores wood's natural properties—solar reflection, infrared emission, moisture evaporation, and thermal insulation—to develop sustainable materials for passive cooling, reducing heat gain without external energy input. Through bioinspired surface treatments and bulk modification with biopolymers, we aim to enhances wood's cooling properties without compromising strength or durability. Cooling wood will find applications in buildings, electronics, and vehicles, reducing reliance on synthetic materials and active cooling. COOLWOOD supports Finland's forestry sector by promoting high-value uses of Finnish wood and contributes to national carbon neutrality goals and global sustainability efforts by advancing knowledge of sustainable, climate-resilient materials.

2025

2029