EuroWindoor feedback to the public consultation on IPBC

IPBC is widely used across Europe, making it an essential component for wood protection. EuroWindoor commissioned studies — by Ramboll on non-chemical alternatives and by DHI on chemical alternatives — illustrate the lack of suitable substitutes. Available alternative active substances fall short on essential criteria, including efficacy against fungi, non-corrosiveness with metal components, and compatibility with protective coatings. Moreover, no biocidal products authorized at a national level across 28 EU countries currently meet the necessary standards for wooden windows and doors.

As a sustainable, energy-saving material, wood offers unique benefits for construction. Wooden components, when manufactured and protected properly, are durable, dimensionally stable, and contribute to a pleasant, high-quality living environment. To conserve functional safety and long service life, most of the domestic wood has to be protected against structural damages caused by wood-destroying organisms (insects, fungi) and needs protective measures against wood-discolouring fungi (sapstain).

IPBC’s reauthorization is essential to support the wood sector’s contribution to the EU’s carbon reduction goals in construction by 2050. EuroWindoor urges ECHA to consider these findings and the significant role of IPBC in preserving wood materials while allowing the sector to continue advancing sustainable practices.