Topic of the Month (October 2023)
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.

A draughty cottage in Blackburn North was transformed into a sustainable, energy-efficient Passivehouse-standard home using recycled materials and ecological design.

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.

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.

Biophilic design integrates natural elements like light, greenery, and organic materials into spaces to enhance well-being, reduce stress, and foster a deeper connection with nature.

The office building in Aix-en-Provence, built in the 1970s, has an SRI score of 39%. Suggested improvements, like upgrading the heating, lighting, and ventilation systems, adding solar panels, and installing motorised sun protections, could raise its score to 51%, enhancing energy efficiency, comfort, and flexibility.

This review examines 82 studies on multi-objective optimisation in low-energy buildings, focusing on energy, thermal comfort, and air quality, highlighting key trends, methods, and future research opportunities, particularly with AI advancements.

Energy House Labs at University of Salford (Manchester) conducted key research on heating systems, fabric retrofitting, and energy efficiency, with findings shared through studies, collaborations, and media appearances, highlighting sustainable solutions for reducing carbon, improving home heating, and addressing the challenges of rising energy costs and fuel poverty.

Throughout the year, the BUILD UP portal has hosted numerous webinars featuring key stakeholders, focusing on essential energy efficiency topics in the construction sector. Here are some highlights: don’t miss the chance to revisit the recordings!

Experts from across Europe shared valuable insights on advancing energy efficiency and renewable energy in buildings. Here’s a recap of their contributions to BUILD UP in 2024.

Energy efficiency in buildings plays a critical role in decarbonising the European building stock. Check the most relevant topics the BUILD UP community has addressed in 2024 and revisit relevant articles.