Sustainable Architecture 2025

Why Sustainable Design Will Be the Focus of 2025

The Construction Sector is in Crisis – And This is Your Opportunity

The global construction sector is at a turning point. Buildings account for approximately 37% of CO₂ emissions related to energy and processes worldwide.

Despite efforts, operational CO₂ emissions from buildings have reached a record high of about 10 gigatons, underscoring the urgent need for change.

The Trends Shaping the Future of Design

The shift towards sustainable design is not just a trend but a necessity. Innovations in materials and construction methods are driving this change.

For instance, the use of bio-based construction materials, such as hempcrete and mycelium, is gaining momentum due to their low environmental impact and regenerative properties.

Additionally, the adoption of Passivhaus design principles is on the rise, aiming to reduce energy consumption by up to 80%. This approach emphasizes continuous insulation, airtight sealing, and high-quality windows to achieve significant energy savings.

How to Be Part of This Transition?

Imagine leading projects that not only meet aesthetic and functional requirements but also contribute to a sustainable future.

By embracing these emerging trends, you position yourself at the forefront of the industry, ready to meet the growing demand for environmentally responsible design.

Join an Event That Could Transform Your Career

Don't miss the opportunity to deepen your knowledge and prepare for the challenges and opportunities that 2025 will bring. Participate in our free event, "Sustainable Architecture 2025," taking place from January 27 to 31, 2025.

Free spots are limited; this is your chance to connect with industry experts, gain valuable insights, and earn a participation certificate.

Secure your spot now and be part of the change you want to see in the world.

Green Building Day 4

Material Transparency in Focus

At the last Green Building Day, Ana Júlia Kfouri and Caio Morelli from UGREEN explored the impact of sustainable materials and the importance of transparency in the construction industry.

Let’s dive into how these practices are redefining the market!

The Importance of Transparency in Sustainable Materials

In the construction market, sustainable materials are not just an ethical choice but a strategic necessity.

Transparency, as explained by the American Institute for Architects (AIA), means that manufacturers must disclose information about the environmental, social, and health impacts of their materials.

What does this include?

• Environmental impacts (emissions, consumption of natural resources).

• Health safety in schools and hospitals, as practiced in the United States.

Key documents include the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), which provides environmental transparency, and sustainability certifications, which are audited assessments focusing on various aspects such as water management, air quality, and more.

Data and Tools to Move Forward

Did you know that 65% of a material's carbon footprint occurs during the extraction phase? That’s why tools like life cycle analysis (LCA) are so crucial.

Key Insights:

• Europe: Over 169 regulations prioritize products with LCA or EPD.

• Brazil: Only 57 EPDs are currently registered, a still low number for the scale of our market.

Tools to get started include SIDAC, a national database for materials; Transparency Building Transparency, an international platform for consultation; and Climate Positive Design, a tool for assessing sustainable landscaping.

Inspiring Example: Bamboo Christmas in Maringá

The city of Maringá chose to use bamboo Christmas sculptures instead of steel, drastically reducing its carbon footprint. The result:

• Emissions equivalent to 35 thousand preserved trees.

• Expansion of the project to other cities like Cascavel.

How to Apply This to Your Project?

10 R’s of Sustainability:

• Refuse: Unsustainable materials.

• Reduce: Resource consumption.

• Redesign: Innovative solutions.

• Reuse, Repair, Recycle: Always prioritize.

Practical Tip: Free tools like the Edge App and Climate Consultant can help you get started with your projects. Let’s talk about them:

Edge App

Developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Edge App is a free tool designed to calculate and optimize energy, water, and material efficiency in construction.

It helps architects and engineers identify sustainable solutions from the early stages of a project, allowing for quick simulations to assess environmental impact and related costs. Additionally, it is widely used in projects seeking EDGE certification, ensuring proven sustainable performance.

Climate Consultant

Focused on climate analysis, the Climate Consultant is a free tool developed by the University of California that transforms climate data into design strategies adapted to different regions.

It helps professionals understand local conditions such as temperature, humidity, and solar radiation, providing specific recommendations for thermal comfort and energy efficiency.

This tool is especially useful for optimizing architectural projects based on the region’s climate, promoting passive and more sustainable solutions.

Let’s go further!

Transparency is not just a trend, but the foundation for transforming the market. Companies and professionals who adopt these practices not only gain recognition but also contribute to a more sustainable future.

Naturhus, the Greenhouses

Transforming Sustainability and Comfort

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Have you heard of Naturhus, the incredible greenhouse homes from Sweden?

These glass residential structures are revolutionizing the way we live in cold climates by combining comfort, sustainability, and architectural innovation.

How do they work?

• Energy efficiency: The greenhouses capture solar energy, reducing the need for traditional heating and offering natural thermal insulation.

• Closed-loop resource system: Water recycling and composting systems turn waste into nutrients for plants, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem.

• Reduced environmental impact: Naturhus demonstrates that it’s possible to live comfortably while minimizing carbon footprint and resource use.

The success of these homes in Sweden has inspired similar projects in extreme climates around the world, showing that sustainable architecture can be functional and transform our relationship with the environment.

Why does this matter to you?

In addition to being an example of sustainable design, Naturhus proves that architectural innovation can be a powerful ally in building homes that respect the environment without sacrificing comfort.

I hope you enjoyed the content! Have a great week.

Filipe Boni,
UGREEN