Green Building and The Future of Sustainable Construction at Bio360

GreenBuilding

Buildings, the very structures that shelter us, currently shoulder a hefty 39% of global energy-related carbon emissions. A staggering 28% is attributed to the energy demands of operational emissions - the energy we consume to heat, cool, and power these buildings. The other 11% is chalked up to the materials we use in their construction and the construction processes themselves. But here's the alarming part: in 2021, the sector’s operational energy-related CO2 emissions spiked to ten gigatonnes of CO2 equivalent. That's a five per cent increase over 2020 levels and two per cent over the pre-pandemic peak in 2019. With the increasing demand for heating, cooling, lighting, and equipment in buildings, the situation is far from ideal (source: World Green Building Council & UNEP).

But what if there was a paradigm shift in the way we approach building and construction? Enter the world of Green Buildings.

Biobased Building Materials: The Key to Green Construction

One of the cornerstones of the transition to Green Buildings is the exploration and implementation of biobased building materials. Imagine replacing carbon-intensive materials like concrete, asphalt, plasterboard, solvents, and adhesives, which are so prevalent in our structures, with innovative, sustainable alternatives. Agri and forestry co-products, carbon capture and utilization (CCU) and biochar offer compelling solutions. Through Bio360, pioneers in the industry showcase alternatives that not only meet the rigorous standards of construction but do so sustainably.

The Green Building Transition

To combat this environmental crisis, a transition to green buildings is essential. This transition can be significantly aided by the emergence and widespread adoption of biobased building materials and carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies. These innovations promise to revolutionize the construction industry by offering sustainable alternatives to carbon-intensive building materials like concrete, asphalt, insulation materials, plasterboard, solvents, adhesives, and more.

Biobased Building Materials

Biobased building materials are derived from renewable sources such as wood, bamboo, hemp, and agricultural residues. These materials not only reduce carbon emissions during production but also sequester carbon, making them a vital tool in the fight against climate change. For example, engineered wood products like cross-laminated timber (CLT) are not only strong and versatile but also have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional concrete and steel.

Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU)

CCU is another game-changing technology in the construction industry. It involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes or directly from the atmosphere and converting them into valuable products. In construction, CCU can be used to create carbon-negative building materials. For instance, carbon dioxide can be transformed into carbonates used in cements, effectively sequestering CO2 while producing essential construction materials.

Biochar applications in the built environment

Integrating biochar into sustainable building products and materials holds immense promise for advancing eco-friendly construction practices. Biochar, a carbon-rich material derived from organic waste, can be incorporated into various construction elements such as biochar-infused concrete, insulation materials, wood composites, bricks and blocks, roofing materials, plaster and render, cement-based materials, structural composites, green roofs and living walls. By doing so, it can improve thermal insulation, reduce energy consumption, and enhance fire resistance, all while sequestering carbon and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, biochar-infused materials can increase durability and decrease the need for frequent replacements, thereby reducing resource consumption and waste generation. As the construction industry continues to evolve towards sustainability, biochar integration offers a versatile and environmentally sound solution to address critical challenges in the quest for greener building practices.

EU Initiatives: Paving the Way for Sustainable Construction

The European Union, recognizing the urgent need for green buildings, has been at the forefront of driving transformative changes in the construction sector. No longer content with “business as usual”, the EU has championed numerous initiatives to promote the transition to Green Buildings. Events such as the show green building, trade show green building, and the exhibition green building serve as platforms for stakeholders to come together, share ideas, and bring green building concepts to life.

Global Initiatives Making Green Buildings a Reality

Around the world, we're seeing remarkable steps taken to redefine what a building can be. From the towering eco-skyscrapers of Singapore, harnessing solar energy and rainwater collection, to the self-sustaining homes in Germany, which produce more energy than they consume - these are more than just buildings. They are a testament to what's possible. These platforms offer a unique opportunity to engage with industry leaders, showcase innovative solutions, and play an active role in shaping the future of construction.

  1. LEED Certification: The U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification program promotes sustainability in building design and operation.
  2. Passive House Standard: Originating in Germany, the Passive House Standard focuses on energy efficiency, resulting in buildings that require minimal energy for heating and cooling.
  3. Singapore's Green Mark Scheme: This initiative encourages sustainability and green building practices in Singapore, making it a role model for sustainable urban development.
  4. Australia's Green Star Rating: The Green Building Council of Australia's Green Star Rating system evaluates the environmental design and construction of buildings, driving sustainable practices in the country.

Join us at Bio360 : Discover the Future of Green Building

Our upcoming event, Bio360, serves as the ideal platform to understand the Future Developments in Green Building. With over 450 exhibitors from 35 countries and 200 international speakers, it's a must-attend event for stakeholders committed to scaling up Green Building.

Are you ready to be part of the biomaterials transition ? Whether you're an industry professional, an innovator, Bio360 is the place to be!

For Exhibitors

Showcase your cutting-edge technologies, products, or services to a global audience. By booking a booth on the expo floor, you're placing yourself at the forefront of this burgeoning industry.

1. Showcase Your Innovations: Exhibit your innovative solutions to a global audience.
2. Learn from Experts: Attend conferences and gain insights from industry leaders.
3. Network: Connect with like-minded professionals and explore collaboration opportunities.
4. Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest advancements in technological and sustainable practices.

For Visitors

Sign up now and secure your e-badge (for free) ! Dive deep into the world of bioenergy and the bioeconomy and witness firsthand the ideas and technologies that are shaping the future of the biotransition.

1. Expert Insights: Gain valuable insights from industry experts and thought leaders.
2. Networking: Connect with peers and potential collaborators in your field.
3. Innovation Showcase: Explore the latest innovations and trends in your industry.
4. Chance Encounters : seek out chance encounters, because big oaks from little acorns grow.