Cost Action E22 intends to optimise the wood protection taking into account the environmental compatibility. Apart from Switzerland, 19 countries have signed the Memorandum of Understanding. In an action plan set up by the Management Committee the aims of the three working groups are defined regarding durability of wood products and protection measures,their interaction with the environment and the possibilities for new developments shown. Open questions on basic methods and guidelines will be addressed in seminars and workshops. This action is very important for promoting quality improvement and use of wood to facilitate the wood trade within Europe and the conversion of European guidelines into national law. Swiss scientists have the opportunity to participate in the different meetings, to report their experience, to visit a partner institute for a short time and to build up networks for future European research projects. The action plan runs until the end of 2003.