Sustainable building saves energy and protects the climate

An important rethinking process is currently taking place in the field of construction and housing. It is about sustainability, circular economy and organic thinking. Questions arise about construction and use, location, acceptance by users and neighbours, energy supply and the ability to recycle later.

In the past ten years, the ecological dimension in building has gained in importance. The Kiel University of Applied Sciences soberly states: the construction of flats and other buildings is bad for the climate. Both the construction and the use of buildings are very CO₂-intensive. Current studies show that 40 to 50 percent of the total CO2 emissions in Germany are attributable to this. A research project is to determine how the CO₂ requirement for new buildings can be reduced. The increased use of renewable energies in construction is an important influencing factor, but it will not be enough. In addition, changes in building technology are necessary.

Policymakers are making clear demands on the building of tomorrow, which is to become more sustainable, conserve resources and protect the climate. The reduction of CO2 in the planning, construction and operation of buildings is the top priority. "In the future, living and working space must be affordable to ensure social diversity," says Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hannes Schwarzwälder from Biberach University of Applied Sciences. To achieve this, it is essential to analyse and adapt processes, such as the interfaces between industrial standardisation and individualisation as well as the reduction of waste and the reuse of materials.

In addition to new construction, the refurbishment of the housing stock is an important task. In Germany, many millions of residential buildings will have to be refurbished in the coming years in order to save energy, protect the climate and keep housing costs moderate. Proper insulation of the building envelope is a first step to make older residential buildings from the years between 1950 and 1970 energetically fit.

A showcase project is currently being built in Hamburg's Hafencity. The tallest wooden high-rise in Germany, named "Roots", is scheduled for completion by the end of 2023. It will have 18 storeys and around 180 flats.

(Photo: © Mr Cox, Pixabay)