Topic of the Month (January 2025)
Each month a relevant topic and several sub-topics are covered in detail. For the Topic of the Month, content following a common thread is developed by BUILD UP Editorial Board in collaboration with the Board of Ambassadors and other relevant experts in the field. This includes producing articles, case studies, webinars and more, all in line with the specific topic selected. Relevant events are also identified and highlighted.
Topics of the Month are announced at the end of the previous month in our website and newsletter. Please write us if you wish to know more about our upcoming topics of the month.
This month, the ToM is "Energy efficient and healthy buildings”. Be ready for these subtopics:
- IEQ / IAQ
- Thermal comfort
- Ventilation systems
and more!
Showing 31 of 44 posts
ETH Zurich developed a sustainable, passive dehumidification system using 3D-printed, moisture-absorbing wall and ceiling components made from marble waste and geopolymer, reducing humidity and greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional ventilation systems.
News
According to Passive House principles, the EU-project outPHit promotes deep retrofits which are cost-efficient and reliable. Based on model projects and with the cooperation of many partners, outPHit opens up ways to implement deep energy retrofits. In the process, solutions with a one-stop-shop approach reduce the effort for planning, execution and
quality assurance.
quality assurance.
Link
Oslo's VISIBLE project advances sustainable construction through emission-free machinery, material reuse, and socially responsible practices, providing a model for other cities to achieve a cleaner, fairer construction sector.
News
A health sector building in Western Slovenia underwent energy renovation in 2019, achieving an SRI score of 18%, with potential upgrades like photovoltaic panels and smart systems promising a rise to 51% and improved efficiency, comfort, and flexibility.
Case study
Ancient passive cooling techniques, like thick walls, shaded designs, and water systems, offer sustainable solutions for modern buildings to stay comfortable during heatwaves and blackouts.
News
Indoor air pollution, caused by tobacco smoke, cooking, cleaning products, mould, and dust, poses serious health risks, but can be mitigated through ventilation, HEPA filters, green products, air purifiers, and indoor plants.
News
Smart windows, like electrochromic and thermochromic types, help reduce energy use by controlling heat transfer, but further research is needed to make them more efficient and suitable for diverse climates.
News
A draughty cottage in Blackburn North was transformed into a sustainable, energy-efficient Passivehouse-standard home using recycled materials and ecological design.
Case study
The study evaluates the capacity of Montenegrin residential buildings to prevent overheating by analysing building features, occupant behaviour, and climate data, highlighting the need for proactive policies and improved passive design measures to address increasing overheating risks under future climate conditions.
Publication
Building conversations up with... Dr. Zuhaib Batra, Scientific Collaborator at Smart Living Lab, Fribourg (Switzerland) and Former Senior Project Manager at Buildings Performance Institute Europe (Brussels).
News