A literature review on the health impacts of wood and mass timber building

The Carbon Leadership Forum has published a comprehensive literature review examining the health impacts of wood and mass timber buildings. Drawing from over 50 peer-reviewed studies and industry reports, the review investigates how wood as a building material affects both physical and psychological health outcomes. The goal is to provide clarity on the role of wood in promoting healthier indoor environments and to identify areas where further research is needed.

Psychological Benefits of Wood Materials

The review highlights that exposure to natural materials such as wood can lead to positive psychological effects, including reduced stress, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive performance. These outcomes are often linked to biophilic design principles, which emphasize the innate human connection to nature. In particular, mass timber interiors, when left exposed, have been associated with greater comfort and satisfaction among building occupants. These findings suggest that wood can play a meaningful role in creating environments that support mental well-being. While the psychological benefits are promising, the review notes that evidence is still emerging, and longitudinal studies are needed to confirm long-term health outcomes. Some studies raise concerns about indoor air quality, particularly when wood is treated or combined with synthetic materials. The report stresses the importance of material transparency and the use of certified wood products to ensure that emissions do not compromise occupant health. These considerations are critical for designers and developers aiming to integrate wood responsibly.

Design Context and Building Use

The review emphasizes that design context significantly influences health outcomes. The location, function, and maintenance of wood materials can affect their impact on occupants. For example, schools and healthcare facilities may experience different benefits from wood interiors compared to residential or commercial buildings. This underscores the need for tailored design strategies that consider both the aesthetic and functional roles of wood in various settings. To advance understanding in this field, the Carbon Leadership Forum calls for standardized research methodologies and cross-disciplinary collaboration. The review advocates for more robust studies that examine the intersection of sustainable materials and human health, particularly in the context of mass timber construction. By building a stronger evidence base, stakeholders can make more informed decisions about material selection and building design.

To explore the full findings and methodology behind this literature review, download the complete report available on this page.