Precast concrete is simultaneously at the cutting edge of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and utilising the inherent, proven performance benefits of concrete. These benefits can be relied on to deliver safe, sustainable buildings that are resilient to fire, release of water and protect occupants from the impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures.

Say no to endless, directionless growth! Say no to consumerism! These are the systems on which our world spins. We will explore how, as a built environment professional, you can take action within your projects to create systemic change: from a linear & destructive, to a circular & regenerative economy. Join us to visualise systems

Building materials that are flammable, that encourage black mould growth, that give off carcinogenic particles are killing us. The construction industry has chosen profit and toxicity instead of life and wellbeing. Systems must change and a complete cultural shift is needed in what we prioritise in buildings. Join us to discuss the impacts of specification,

Did you know there was a sand crisis? A fundamental building block of glass and concrete is running out, and what is left is being fought over and exploited. Join us in this session as we explore the hidden and extractive nature of the materials we specify, and how natural materials provide an alternative and

Say no to endless, directionless growth! Say no to consumerism! These are the systems on which our world spins. We will explore how, as a built environment professional, you can take action within your projects to create systemic change: from a linear & destructive, to a circular & regenerative economy. Join us to visualise systems

Building materials that are flammable, that encourage black mould growth, that give off carcinogenic particles are killing us. The construction industry has chosen profit and toxicity instead of life and wellbeing. Systems must change and a complete cultural shift is needed in what we prioritise in buildings. Join us to discuss the impacts of specification,

Did you know there was a sand crisis? A fundamental building block of glass and concrete is running out, and what is left is being fought over and exploited. Join us in this session as we explore the hidden and extractive nature of the materials we specify, and how natural materials provide an alternative and

“We can no longer let the people in power decide what hope is. Hope is not passive. Hope is not blah blah blah. Hope is telling the truth. Hope is taking action” – Greta Thunberg Join the Architects Climate Action Network (ACAN) for a day of sharing your expertise, taking action together and expanding our

Steel is the backbone of modern economies and underpins many industrial sectors, including construction which accounts for more than half of all steel use globally. Steel also has a vital role to play to facilitate the transition to a zero-carbon economy and the industrial and infrastructure revolution that is required to decarbonise the UK by

A specialist international panel have joined forces with UK consultants 540 WORLD and Partners to showcase to manufacturers and clients the global exemplars and most current circular design knowledge to help fast-track UK products and projects toward safe, circular, regenerative design. If you want to know how manufacturers are achieving the global standard for certified,

For centuries, the educational institutions of Britain provided fertile ground for architectural innovation. We are seeing more academic buildings incorporating sustainable features, not only to reduce the building’s environmental impact, but also to promote a healthy and productive learning environment.   The session will explore the Wood Awards 2022 Finalist Wintringham Primary Academy, by award-winning architects

The majority of new housing in the UK is constructed using brick and block. Detailed design and specification continues to evolve to meet building regulations and the carbon reduction requirements of the Future Homes Standard 2025. In this session the speakers will explain how, and also take a look at some of the innovative products

Mass timber construction can provide an opportune route to decarbonisation in our built environment, however extensive research has identified difficulties in regards to insurance. A new industry-recognised ‘playbook’ aims to provide a practical resource to help overcome these challenges and streamline the process of obtaining insurance for both construction and ongoing occupation of mass timber

Sharing insights from a forthcoming book, this session will discuss how we can better understand materials and their environmental impacts so we can make more informed design choices. Experts on specific materials will highlight the questions that we need to ask, focusing on how we can reduce their impact and use them most efficiently. Speakers:

Growing interest in zero carbon and low embodied energy casts a spotlight on materials that are specified. While mainstream petrochemical, synthetic and cementitious materials strive for lower embodied energy , the best way to achieve this is by using bio based, renewable, natural materials. Many architects and builders are nervous about using bio-based materials as

Will Arnold, the IStructE’s Head of Climate Action, will present on the decarbonisation of steel, concrete and timber in the UK. As well as critiquing the promises made to date, the presentation will give an insight into some of the exciting materials innovations that Will has come across through his work over the last two

Steel is one of the most widely used and resource intensive materials used in construction. Although commonly recycled at end of life, the reuse of steel is minimal despite the apparent environmental and carbon benefits. New research shows that steel can be reused in a wide range of construction applications and contribute towards a more

Regenerative circular design consultants 540 WORLD and Accoya wood as a gamechanging innovation exemplar present gold standard sustainable timber innovations and why sustainable circularity is a broken design model without material health verification first. The global pioneers setting the international standards in design and materials explain the why, how and what makes Accoya wood safe,

David’s presentation will cover the circular economy design principles for buildings; practical examples and case studies; and a brief summary of the requirements of the GLA Circular Economy policies. Chair: Alice Purcell, AECOM Speaker: Dave Cheshire, Director, Sustainability, Buildings + Places, AECOM   

The standard for concrete, BS 8500, is about to be revised and this update will considerably increase the range of low carbon concrete available for all concrete applications. Gareth will provide guidance on how to specify low carbon concrete, including the use of multi-components cements using limestone. Research, development and innovation into new low carbon

A presentation and panel discussion about the New Model Building, a project by Waugh Thistleton, Buro Happold and UCL, which has established a pre-approved construction system for a 6-storey timber residential building for use by the wider industry. The session will explore the potential of mid-rise timber residential development – tapping into questions of fire