TALKING TIMBER
ARUP
In many developing economies , highway agencies are trying to find sustainable ways in which to extend the lifespan of roads and bridges .
and the built environment has a crucial part to play . We know why we must accelerate climate action and Build Better Now shows how we can get there . Everyone on the planet has a stake in our buildings and cities . I invite everyone to take inspiration from Build Better Now as a global showcase of pioneering solutions to climate change and hope that it supports the industry to create more sustainable buildings , places and cities of the future .”
Alongside the exhibition , Build Better Now hosted an events series comprising a programme of tours and talks , keynotes , panel discussions and other downloadable content , to educate and inspire the built environment industry and public to act now to identify and deliver climate solutions at scale .
Following the Open Call , which was launched in June 2021 , a rigorous and transparent selection process was undertaken to find projects for the exhibition . A judging panel comprising industry leaders from across the world , with insight into the complexities of built environment sustainability issues on a regional and local level , selected projects that are making an immediate positive impact on the planet and people ’ s lives . These projects are both scalable and replicable – giving the potential to deliver far-reaching impacts . Exploring themes such as natural resource use , climate mitigation and adaptation and nature and biodiversity , Build Better Now showcased some of the most innovative solutions from across the globe .
Pioneering projects included a cultural centre in Sweden that will be one of the world ’ s tallest timber buildings ; the largest Certified Passivhaus building in the Southern hemisphere in Australia ; a 100-hectare innovation district in Italy digitally mapped and powered by 100 % renewable energy sources ; and the largest new build energy-positive office building in Norway , which supplies surplus renewable energy to neighbouring buildings as well as powering electric buses .
Buildings constructed using natural local materials range from a UK university building utilising thatch and reed ; a school in Indonesia built with bamboo and the first 3D-printed sustainable homes made entirely from raw clay – perfectly balancing ultra-modern construction techniques with historic , traditional materials .
Projects protecting and enhancing nature include a governmentled eco-tourism initiative to restore a national park in Rwanda and
www . timberiq . co . za // DECEMBER 2021 / JANUARY 2022 31