Topic of the Month (May 2024)

Plastic insulation materials are environmentally harmful due to high energy use and emissions, while natural fiber alternatives are more sustainable but face cost and technical challenges.

London showcases sustainable urban innovation through several projects, all of which integrate eco-friendly design, historical preservation, and green spaces to address climate challenges and promote sustainability.

The STA's Timber in Construction initiative promotes increased timber use in UK construction to speed up builds, reduce carbon impact, and support net-zero and housing targets.

Around 75% of Europeans live in cities facing environmental and health challenges, with the EEA highlighting the need for energy-efficient buildings, smart renovations, and sustainable urban planning to mitigate climate change, reduce emissions, and improve quality of life.

UVA researchers developed a graphene-enhanced 3D-printed cementitious composite that reduces carbon emissions by 31% and increases mechanical strength by 23%, offering a sustainable solution for construction and transportation infrastructure.

The Council of the EU has adopted the updated Construction Products Regulation to streamline market rules, support sustainability, and enable digital transparency in the construction sector.

Work has commenced at 2 pilot sites in Barcelona and Brussels as part of the European project RECONSTRUCT. The two resulting buildings will challenge conventional construction by integrating circularity throughout their lifecycle phases: design, material selection, assembly, and deconstruction.

Iceland's National Pavilion at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition will feature 'Lavaforming', a project by architect Arnhildur Pálmadóttir that explores creating sustainable building materials from controlled lava flows, showcasing the country's commitment to innovative design and environmental sustainability.

The construction industry must rapidly decarbonise by partnering with innovative startups to develop sustainable solutions, such as zero-carbon cement and CO2 mineralisation technologies, to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet climate goals.