Swegon has introduced a groundbreaking concept for the building industry with its new wooden air handling unit, aimed at reducing carbon emissions. As environmental sustainability becomes a priority, Swegon is redefining industry norms with this innovative design.
The original GOLD air handling unit, launched in 1994, set a high standard for energy efficiency and performance. Now, with a growing focus on reducing embodied carbon, Swegon presents its first wooden air handling unit prototype, highlighting a new path for sustainable building solutions.
Two working prototypes of the wooden GOLD unit, size 005, have replaced conventional steel casings with cross-laminated timber (CLT), achieving a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions. Larger units promise even greater carbon savings.
“By rethinking material choices and challenging industry norms, we are driving the future of sustainable building solutions,” stated Martin Ottersten, PhD, of Swegon’s Innovation and Knowledge Centre.
Annika Sedwall, Head of Product Management at Kvänum, emphasized, “This concept unit aligns with our RE:3 initiative to lead in reducing embodied carbon of products. By incorporating recycled steel in our GOLD units, we’ve minimized environmental impact, and this wooden concept takes it a significant step further.”
Although not yet available for sale, this concept unit will be used to evaluate and discuss alternative materials for future development in the industry.
