Topic of the Month (December 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.

This study explores how digital twins can improve building energy efficiency by enhancing monitoring, modelling, and maintenance while addressing challenges and identifying future research opportunities for sustainable practices.

The study showed that automatic ceiling fan control provides thermal comfort and air quality comparable to manual settings, offering an energy-efficient alternative to air conditioning.

This paper analyses 990 articles on digital technologies in sustainable construction, identifying key themes and future research directions to enhance sustainability in the field.

Let’s have a closer look at the significance of historic buildings. Why is it crucial to prioritise their refurbishment, and what challenges do these projects typically encounter, making them so complex to manage?

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.

AI-driven design and digital twins are revolutionising construction by enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and collaboration, while success depends on integrating technology with skilled human expertise.

In 2025, the construction industry focuses on sustainability, safety, and innovation, leveraging AI, digital tools, and green practices to adapt to climate challenges and drive growth.

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.

The Elmen social housing project in Luxembourg showcases sustainable design with smart energy systems, achieving a 40% SRI score, with potential upgrades to boost efficiency, comfort, and storage.

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!