Building (r)evolution was the slogan of the 13th PLGBC Green Building Summit, during which architects, entrepreneurs, academics and publicists exchanged experiences and ideas on sustainable construction.
The conference was decided to start in a rather unconventional way — with a song by Depeche Mode band Where "s the Revolution. This made reference to the slogan of the event, and also drew attention in a rather direct way to the problem of the circular economy in construction, or rather to its still small scale. As an environment shaping the debate, as well as introducing new trends, are the actions taken sufficient?
The event took place on October 5 and 6 in Warsaw, but was also broadcast remotely. Several panels discussed building materials, the role of architecture, interiors tailored to diverse audiences, energy sourcing, greenery and its role as well as corporate responsibility. What was the main focus of attention?
Bartosz Dendura spoke about the role of architecture in the pursuit of sustainable development
© PLGBC
are we ready to pay more?
76% of Polish women and men could pay more for clean energy. In the face of the energy crisis, energy price spikes and increasingly popular populism on the subject of climate change, the data cited by Bartosz Dendura may come as a surprise.
Still, encouraging green and low-carbon solutions is unpopular. Increasing interest in green certificates, according to reports published by PLGBC, is a process that is happening too slowly.
From left: Izabela Makowska-Kwiecińska, Aleksander Śniegocki, Małgorzata Eull, Agnieszka Hryniewiecka-Jachowicz, Andrzej Losor
© PLGBC
This is what the panels discussed, pointing out that we need more ambitious policies to support positive change. The issues of setting appropriate key indicators, how to measure the effects, or educating about the impact of construction on climate change are still open. The panels were not only a place to point out problems, but also to discuss solutions and boast about what individual companies have been able to implement.
How the ecosystem can financially support investment was discussed by Szymon Bujalski
© PLGBC
contact with nature
In addition to the issue of construction, the topic of biophilic design, or how modern designs should take into account the need for contact with nature, was discussed among others. The desire to surround oneself with greenery is not only evident with interior trends such as the Jungle room, but also in the immediate surroundings — at the place of residence, work or the nearest recreational space.
Designing in line with this need has been distinguished not only by the scope of people's needs, but also by the services that translate into finances — filtering the air, retaining water in the soil, preventing buildings from overheating. These are all services that urban nature provides us. As pointed out, diversified construction is not only about choosing the right materials, but complementing them with nature-based solutions.
From left: Balbina Gryczynska, Kasper Jakubowski, Katarzyna Miastko-Wujec, Robert Brzezinski
© PLGBC
concrete and inspiration
Trying to summarize the entire conference, it is worth noting two words that are key to the whole — concrete and inspiration. During the panels and speeches, people pointed to their own experiences. There were new technological solutions introduced to buildings and assumptions, simple techniques for reducing energy consumption or using plants. The conference was a place to show off one's actions.
The second element was inspiration — thinking about the future and the solutions we can introduce. Above all, the event allowed networking between representatives of different backgrounds and people who may not always meet through the small intersection of their professions and workplaces. Whether this inspiration will translate into action, we will find out at the next edition of the conference next year!
