Ecological issues are coming increasingly to the fore when engineering new construction materials and designs. This is the reason why construction materials based upon or derived from wood not only have ecological benefits. They also allow state-of-the-art design in combination with glass, ceramic and other metallic or mineral materials. Recyclable materials for easy separation at disassembly, improvements in healthy living with materials compensating for climate and with low or no emissions, new ideas for designs and the physical or construction optimization are some of the issues coming to the fore. Beyond the construction material itself, low-emission, convenience enhancing or adaptive materials will be in great demand also for the living area, including wall and floor covering, textiles and furniture. Finally, integrating »intelligent« electronic control systems into the living space (for an »intelligent house«) are some other ways to improve people’s living atmosphere while creating comfort and safety.

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