Wood-based materials offer a lightweight alternative to steel and aluminium, reducing fuel consumption and environmental impacts in vehicles. While their environmental benefits are well-studied, this research explores their social consequences, particularly in Austria’s forest-based industries. Using the WOODSIM model, 11 social indicators (e.g., occupational injuries, gender equality) were linked to labour input and material flows. Two innovations were analyzed. Results show steel poses higher risks for fatal injuries than aluminium, with impacts varying by country. Shifting to wood-based materials improves social performance, especially with regionalized value chains.