After assessing the past research with protection chemicals, this paper proposes future avenues for research and development in wood protection. Three scenarios are put forward for consideration. First, more is not better and future systems will emphasize combination formulations which enhance properties while providing biological efficacy. Second, current systems, especially those based on copper and heavy metals, will be replaced with organic systems. Lastly, formulation/application technology will change such that future systems will be more environmentally benign and less energy intensive.