Modern timber construction can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of buildings compared to conventional materials, such as concrete and steel, whose energy‑intensive production contributes to a large share of the sector’s emissions. Wood sequesters carbon throughout its life cycle … and avoids an additional 1.1-1.5 tonnes of emissions when substituting for concrete or steel. Despite wood’s green credentials, scaling up timber construction … requires value chains and a trained workforce that understands its properties, building techniques and appropriate applications. LIFE WOOD for Future is addressing this knowledge gap by supporting universities, vocational schools and training centres. The project develops wood-based curricula for architects, engineers and technicians, as well as practical pathways for construction workers and local SMEs to integrate wood into design and construction. By linking academic knowledge with hands-on training, the LIFE project demonstrates how wood-based buildings can be designed and built safely, efficiently and sustainably, increasing the likelihood of greater adoption.