Sustainable Architecture Week

The November 11th Free Event is Coming!

A groundbreaking opportunity is on the horizon for architects, designers, and sustainability enthusiasts. Sustainable Architecture Week will take place from November 11-15, 2024, offering participants a chance to explore cutting-edge solutions for greener buildings – entirely online and free of charge.

This event is designed to bridge innovation, technology, and sustainability, helping professionals reshape architecture to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Certificates of participation will be provided to attendees, making this an ideal learning opportunity for those looking to enhance their skills.

A Global Movement Towards Greener Architecture

Sustainable Architecture Week provides deep insights into key topics shaping the future of construction. Participants will explore energy-efficient designs, renewable energy use, and sustainable materials. The event also delves into green building certifications such as LEED and BREEAM, practical steps for climate-resilient architecture, and ESG principles in building practices.

The program is divided into three live classes:

• November 11 – Learn about current trends and new opportunities in sustainable design.

• November 13 – A hands-on guide to applying sustainability across projects and standing out in the market.

• November 15 – A wrap-up session exploring how sustainable design can make a lasting environmental impact.

At the end of the event, attendees will receive a summary guide and their participation certificate.

Who Should Attend?

The event is open to architects, engineers, interior designers, students, and NGO representatives working towards sustainability. Entrepreneurs and professionals from real estate and construction sectors will also benefit from insights into market trends and new technologies.

Join a Global Network

Participants will gain access to a vibrant global community of like-minded professionals, creating new opportunities for collaboration. With a history of transforming 600,000 participants across past events, UGREEN continues to lead the conversation on sustainable design.

Don’t miss out on this immersive learning experience that promises to go beyond traditional education. Secure your spot today and take a step towards shaping the future of architecture with purpose and innovation.

The countdown is on!

Urbanism

Current Scenario and Concerning Perspectives for Electric Vehicles in 2024

The electric vehicle (EV) market continues to grow in 2024, but signs of slowdown are emerging in certain regions. In the first half of the year, global sales reached 7 million units—20% higher than in 2023. China leads the growth with a 30% increase in sales, while Europe shows signs of stagnation, registering only a 1% increase and an 18% drop in Germany. In the United States, the EV market grew by 10%, though hybrids saw the most significant surge, with sales jumping 28%.

Incentives and Infrastructure Drive the Pace

Government incentives remain essential. In Italy, subsidies led to record sales in June, while the withdrawal of incentives in Germany caused a sharp decline. At the same time, a lack of charging infrastructure is a significant barrier: 77% of consumers report that the absence of charging stations impacts their purchase decisions.

Manufacturers Reassess Strategies

Automakers are adjusting their electric ambitions. Volvo abandoned its goal of becoming 100% electric by 2030, and Ford scaled back production in Europe. Meanwhile, GM maintains its commitment to eliminating combustion engines by 2035, betting on affordable models like the Chevrolet Equinox EV. Tesla, however, faces challenges with declining sales and loss of market share in the U.S. and China.

Challenges and Opportunities

High battery costs, limited infrastructure, and concerns over depreciation and fire risks continue to hinder the market. Manufacturers are also advocating for regulatory flexibility in Europe, fearing that strict rules could harm competitiveness. Despite these challenges, hybrids are gaining ground as a viable alternative, with a 31% increase in sales in the U.S.

Looking Ahead

Although EV adoption is falling short of expectations, improvements in infrastructure and the launch of more affordable models may attract more consumers. The future success of the sector will depend on the combination of innovation, incentives, and consumer confidence.

Green Technologies

What Happens to Solar Panels After They "Die"?

The growth of solar energy continues to accelerate, with installed capacity expected to reach 2,000 GW by 2024. Beyond generating clean energy, it is essential to understand the full lifecycle of solar panels and the environmental challenges they pose.

Lifespan and Efficiency Loss

Solar panels have an average lifespan of 25 to 30 years but gradually lose efficiency over time. After 12 years, efficiency drops by around 10%, and by 25 years, it can decline by up to 20%. However, studies suggest that the actual reduction is lower than expected, between 6-8%.

Disposal and the Waste Challenge

With 60 million tons of solar panel waste projected by 2050, improper disposal is a major concern. Many panels still end up in landfills, releasing toxic metals such as lead and cadmium. Recycling remains limited, with only 10% of panels being recycled globally. In Europe, the WEEE Directive regulates disposal, while the U.S. lacks comprehensive legislation, with Washington State being a notable exception.

Recycling as an Opportunity

Silicon panel recycling can recover up to 95% of the glass and 85% of the silicon, but it faces technical challenges and high costs. Innovations such as laser soldering and new thermal processes could improve recovery in the future. The recycling market, valued at £250 million in 2022, is expected to grow to £1.29 billion by 2028, driving green jobs and supporting the circular economy.

The Future of Clean Energy

The expansion of solar energy must be accompanied by a robust strategy for managing end-of-life equipment. Governments, companies, and society must collaborate to develop efficient recycling infrastructure and promote the circular economy, reducing the need for new resources.

With proper planning and innovation, solar waste can become an economic and environmental opportunity, ensuring a sustainable future for all.

Climate Change

Climate Change Denial and Its Impact

For decades, climate change denial was characterized by open rejection of science, with claims that global warming did not exist or was not caused by humans. Today, the narrative has shifted: many now acknowledge that the climate is changing but downplay its severity and promote fatalism, suggesting that "it’s too late to act."

This shift reflects the increasing pressure from scientific evidence. However, economic interests aim to slow mitigation policies, arguing that solutions are expensive or ineffective. Digital platforms like YouTube and social media amplify these new narratives, while think tanks such as the Heartland Institute continue to receive funding from fossil fuel industries and anonymous donors.

The Effects of Misinformation on the Climate Debate

The spread of misinformation creates apathy and confusion among the public, making it harder to reach a consensus on urgent actions. In politics, denial fragments the debate, delaying essential regulations and climate initiatives. For activists, fatalistic messages can be demotivating, highlighting the need for new approaches that promote practical and positive solutions.

Confronting Denial and Moving Forward

The response to denial requires scientific education and efforts to combat disinformation. Digital platforms must take stricter measures against misleading content, while governments should ensure transparency in the funding of denialist organizations.

Optimism also plays a crucial role: highlighting progress in renewable energy and local initiatives is key to engaging society. Grassroots movements and international partnerships, such as the Paris Agreement, demonstrate that transforming the climate future is possible. The science is clear, but change depends on collective choices and immediate action.

Next UGREEN Events

Sustainable Business Mentoring

November 1st. Only available for UGREEN Pass members.

Present your career challenges and connect with participants worldwide during our monthly meetings, elevating your career to higher levels of effectiveness and influence.

Green Building Certifications Mentoring

November 7, 17, 21, and 28 at 9 AM. Available exclusively for UGREEN Pass members.

In today's eco-conscious world, understanding and applying environmental certifications is essential to set your projects apart. The Environmental Certifications Workshop provides practical, immediately applicable insights to elevate the sustainable standard of your buildings.

Become a paying subscriber of Subscriber-only Contents to get access to this post and other subscriber-only content.

Already a paying subscriber? Sign In.

A subscription gets you:

• • Subscriber-only Contents