Articles

The construction industry still represents one of the largest global energy consumers, but it has great potential for decarbonisation if circular construction principles are to be adopted. The European Union is pushing for the implementation of innovative and sustainable processes to achieve a paradigm shift towards circular construction. This article explores the potential of circularity to revolutionise the way we build, and envision, our built environment.

In this 4th article of the ARISE Currency of Skills series, Martin Kelly, Jan Cromwijk and Jaap Kolk examine the benefits of investing in skills through lifelong learning and outline how skills are the mechanism to bridge the gap between knowledge and wealth.

Energy renovation processes in vulnerable neighbourhoods are complex decision-making endeavours. The JustPrepare project aims to develop inclusive strategies attuned to local needs to enhance energy renovation and transition effectiveness, considering economic, environmental, and social benefits.

New European Bauhaus (NEB) integrates multi-level engagement and a transdisciplinary approach to transform the places we live into more beautiful, sustainable, and inclusive using participatory processes.

Housing represents a cornerstone of human well-being. Ensuring accessibility and efficiency not only enhances quality of life but also paves the way for economic resilience and social cohesion. The European Union has set policies, initiatives, and financial instruments to reach these goals.

Following the three principles of the New European Bauhaus - inclusion, beauty and sustainability - the LIFE Bauhausing Europe project will ‘re-imagine’ five public buildings and their surrounding in five European cities.
Using an innovative methodology, the project works with potential or current users of these buildings to identify their needs, which are then shared with a panel of experts who use their findings to design the basis for an open contest for renovation projects. Improving energy efficiency is one of the technical requirements to be included in the tender documents.

In the dynamic world of the built environment, skills are paramount. Formal education programs, like architecture, engineering, and construction management degrees, provide a solid foundation of knowledge and expertise. Ongoing training initiatives, such as the ARISE project, and continuing education courses keep skilled workers updated with industry trends and technological advancements, ensuring their relevance and adaptability in the evolving construction sector.

As part of the ARISE Article series, the project addresses in this article the values of skills in the design and construction of qualified workers in society and as individuals. It also delves into how skilled workers can contribute to economic growth and competitiveness in different sectors.

BUILD2050 fosters sustainable, healthy European building practices through interdisciplinary courses aimed at decarbonising construction by 2050, supported by a network of academic and sector partners.

The RES2 project is developing the Italian roadmap to performing qualitative and quantitative analyses of the gap in skills needed to reach a carbon-neutral building environment.