Blog

What once seemed what once seemed science fiction is now becoming a reality. In Lelystad, Netherlands, a pioneering logistics center is rising from the ground, not in concrete, but in wood and over 40,000 m² of EcoCocon straw wall panels. Logistics Center West, designed by Henning Larsen, is Europe’s largest timber logistics facility. It is by far the largest project to date using straw- a milestone we are incredibly proud of.

EcoCocon panels have achieved REI 45 fire resistance, proving the natural fire safety of bio-based materials with minimal additional layers. Tested at 250mm thickness, the panels withstood 50 minutes of open flame, and our standard 300-400mm panels are expected to perform even better. For higher protection, the full EcoCocon wall system has been classified REI 120, offering 120 minutes of fire resistance. This milestone underscores our commitment to safe, sustainable, and high-performing construction solutions.

As 2025 approaches, we reflect on a remarkable year for EcoCocon and green construction. Our key highlight was the grand opening of our new fully automated production facility in Voderady this September - a pivotal moment that sets the stage for a new era for natural building materials.

You might think the humble straw wall panels are only suitable for small projects such as extensions or individual houses, but the possibilities are much more exciting. Let’s have a closer look at how our panels can be used in applications of different scales, such as apartment blocks, industrial buildings, sports facilities and schools to name but a few.