In the Memorandum of Understanding for COST Action E22 a series of highly demanding objectives were adopted and technical benefits anticipated. The main overall objective was 'to improve and consequently to increase the cost-effective use of European wood by means of optimising the environmental factors relating to its durability'. Perhaps the most important technical benefit to be achieved was 'improved guidance in specifying durability requirements to reduce reliance in traditional biological wood preservatives'. COST Action E22 has concentrated on developing the scientific and technical basis necessary to achieve these aims. Independent evaluation of the work of COST Action E22 at its completion has commended the Action very highly in the achievement of its objectives.