Wooden buildings can reduce stress and improve learning environments

A 2020 Finnish study shows that wooden buildings are not only aesthetically pleasing, but can also contribute to lower stress levels, better air quality and less noise. The researchers believe this can provide a healthier and more comfortable environment, especially in schools and other learning venues. Wooden buildings have long had a good reputation for promoting well-being and good indoor air, but long-term studies on their health effects have been lacking. A recent study in Finland now provides insight into how wooden buildings affect the environment and health. The study, conducted by The Unit of Measurement Technology at the University of Oulu, examined the environmental and health effects of the Tuupala wooden school in Kuhmo compared to the Tuupala stone school and a primary school in Vaala. Over 10 months, the researchers measured temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, particles and volatile organic compounds in the school buildings. In addition, noise in the classrooms was monitored for a month, and the stress hormone cortisol was analyzed from saliva samples taken from the schoolchildren. The results were startling: The wooden school had significantly lower noise levels, less variation in humidity and lower stress levels among students compared to the other schools. This suggests that wooden buildings can provide a better learning environment and help reduce stress among children. However, the researchers emphasize that not all wooden schools will necessarily produce the same results, as several factors come into play. The study was conducted in 2020 and funded by The Finnish Forest Foundation and the European Agricultural Funds for Rural Development of Mainland Finland. This research provides valuable support for the increased use of wood in buildings and opens up further studies in the area.