King Charles Impressed by 'Fantastic' Wood Chip Bath at Bio-Based Exhibition
King Charles expressed admiration for a "fantastic" bath crafted from wood chips during a visit to the New Wood: Building a bio-based future exhibition in central London. The event, held at the Garrison Chapel, showcased innovative products derived from trees, highlighting a shift towards sustainable materials.
Innovative Wood-Based Products on Display
The King was presented with a range of groundbreaking items, including a prototype wheelie luggage case made from cellulose, food packaging based on wood pulp, and casts for broken limbs created from wood and biodegradable polymer. These exhibits demonstrated the versatility of wood in modern manufacturing and design.
During the tour, Charles could not resist tapping the large bath made from wood chips and resin, engaging in conversation with Matti Lehtipuu, chairman of the firm Woodio, which developed the product. After examining the bath for several minutes, the King remarked, "fantastic," noting that "if you look at it, it could be ceramic."
Royal and Diplomatic Presence
King Charles was accompanied by the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, and First Lady Suzanne Innes-Stubb, both of whom showed keen interest in the exhibits. President Stubb humorously suggested to the King, "I'm sure they could send you a special one," referring to the wood chip bath.
The King's cousin, the Earl of Snowdon, greeted Charles with a kiss on both cheeks, a customary welcome among royal men. Students from the King's Foundation's Snowdon School of Furniture exhibited pieces made from traditional British woods such as oak and ash, adding a local touch to the international event.
Collaboration and Vision for a Sustainable Future
The exhibition was a collaborative effort between the Finnish Forest Association and two organisations founded by King Charles: the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance and the King's Foundation. This partnership underscored a shared commitment to promoting bio-based economies and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Marc Palahí, chief executive officer of the Circular Bioeconomy Alliance, commented after the visit, "For the last 100 years, we have been living under a fossil-based economy – energy, fertiliser, pesticides, everything is made from petroleum. Here, what we are showing is that a new world, a new economy is possible, relying on the power of nature."
The event highlighted the potential of wood and other natural materials to revolutionise industries, from healthcare to travel, while addressing environmental challenges. King Charles's engagement with the exhibits reinforced his long-standing advocacy for sustainability and innovation in the bio-economy sector.
