On Monday, January 20, Architect Laura Moya, PhD in Forest Products and academic coordinator of the Master’s Program in Wood Construction, published the column“Wood: The Material of the 21st Century”in Forbes Uy.
The article highlights the importance of wood in contemporary construction, its environmental benefits, energy efficiency, and design flexibility. It also emphasizes how innovations such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glued laminated timber have facilitated its use in large-scale projects, such as high-rise buildings and bridges, aligning with global trends in sustainability and design.
In addition, the need for regulatory, technological, and educational infrastructure to consolidate this construction technology is emphasized.
Wood construction
Wood is making a comeback as the material of the 21st century thanks to its sustainable properties and its growing use in architecture and civil engineering. This natural and renewable resource not only promotes efficient and eco-friendly construction but also helps reduce carbon emissions.
In Uruguay, the landscape has changed significantly. While the use of wood in the construction sector was historically limited, the country now has robust domestic supply thanks to policies such as Forestry Law No. 15,939 (1987).
Currently, Uruguay has more than 1.2 million hectares of planted forests, mainly pine and eucalyptus, with over 95% certified to ensure their sustainability.
The availability of domestically sourced structural timber, combined with technological advances such as solid wood products (CLT, glulam, and brettstapel) and structural analysis software, has driven its use in large-scale projects, such as high-rise buildings and bridges.
This trend, in line with the global need for sustainable solutions, positions wood as a key alternative to traditional materials.
- We also recommend reading: “Why Studying Wood Architecture and Construction in 2025 Will Transform Your Career”
Uruguay and the Challenge of Structural Lumber
To establish wood as a key material in the construction industry, progress must be made in three essential areas:
- Materials with clear technical specifications, in compliance with international standards.
- Specific regulations, covering everything from manufacturing to the design and execution of construction projects.
- Training of skilled personnelwho will drive innovation and the adoption of these technologies.
To this end, the School of Architecture at Universidad ORT Uruguay , in April 2025, the Master’s in Wood Construction. This 18-month academic program aims to train architects and engineers in the design, calculation, and construction of structures using structural timber, with a focus on energy efficiency and industrialization.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kah9_72Me4c
The master's program consists of 10 courses that combine theory and practice, culminating in a final project that consolidates the skills acquired. This innovative program marks a crucial step toward positioning Uruguay as a leader in sustainable construction, promoting a development model that benefits both the environment and local industry.