Virtually all wood preserving treAtments today work by impregnating toxic chemicals (such as arsenic, oils, ammonia or metal compounds) into the cell walls of the wood, filling the voids but not changing the underlying chemistry of the wood. This controls unwanted organisms, such as bacteria, viruses and fungi, by creating an inhospitable environment. However, the toxicity of such products has environmental implications, both during the serviceable life of the wood and for its safe disposal. By contrast, Accoya® Wood is non-toxic and 100% recyclable.

The main non-toxic preservative treatment available is a "thermal modification" process which works by breaking down the edible components of the wood. However, the process both discolours and weakens the wood, rendering it unsuitable for many uses. The Accoya® Wood production process does not weaken the original wood species – in fact, its hardness is slightly improved - nor does it compromise its bending strength. 

 Accoya® Wood is modified all the way through, not just at the surface layer like many alternative treatments. This means that users can have absolute confidence in Accoya® Wood’s durability in a way that has not previously been possible. When Accoya® Wood is cut or jointed there are no exposed unacetylated surfaces in any dimension. This completely negates the need to apply additional chemical preservatives on-site, as is necessary with unmodified or envelope treated woods.