The transition towards greener and more digitized construction is one of the most significant challenges of our time, both environmentally and technologically.
Technology and material manufacturers play a crucial role in this change, contributing to the creation of increasingly efficient, smart buildings with a low environmental impact. The roadmap of RES2, a project funded by the European Commission, highlights the importance of accelerating this transition through targeted actions and dedicates an entire chapter to the strategic role manufacturers can play.
Sustainable Materials and Digital Product Passport
One of the most important contributions from manufacturers concerns the development of new eco-friendly materials, including high-performance thermal insulation, low-environmental-impact cements, integrated solar panels, and recyclable or biodegradable materials. These materials are essential for reducing CO₂ emissions and improving the energy efficiency of buildings.
However, to speed up the adoption of these innovations, it is necessary to address the so-called “time to market.” One of the solutions proposed by the RES2 roadmap is the implementation of a “digital passport” for products, based on international standards. This passport would create a direct link between sustainable material libraries and environmental design and evaluation software, allowing for the identification of locally sourced (“zero kilometer”) products. This innovation, coupled with targeted training for entrepreneurs, would facilitate the large-scale adoption of sustainable solutions.
Advanced Digital Technologies and BIM
Manufacturers are already contributing to the digitalization of the construction sector through the introduction of advanced tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM). This technology enables more efficient building design and management by integrating data on materials and energy performance. In particular, the use of IoT (Internet of Things) technologies allows for real-time monitoring of building systems, promoting the development of “smart” and green buildings.
Despite the growing adoption of BIM, many industry operators still perceive it as merely an evolution of CAD. However, the RES2 roadmap emphasizes the importance of targeted training to fully leverage the potential of BIM, particularly in the selection of materials, so that more sustainable technical and economic decisions can be made from the earliest stages of design.
Energy Efficiency and On-Site Training
The contribution of manufacturers to energy efficiency is equally essential. Products such as high-efficiency windows, advanced ventilation systems, and climate control systems powered by renewable energy are key elements in reducing resource consumption and the environmental footprint of buildings.
Unfortunately, the widespread adoption of these innovations is often hindered by a lack of practical training. The RES2 roadmap proposes the introduction of on-site training courses, allowing workers to acquire specific skills directly from manufacturers. This type of hands-on training, if recognized at a regulatory level, could address the current gaps in the construction sector’s educational system, helping to accelerate the use of innovative technologies.
Circular Economy and Digital Platforms
Producers are also promoting circular economy models, developing materials that can be reused or recycled, thereby helping to reduce waste in the construction sector. However, for the circular economy to become a widespread practice and not merely a tool for greenwashing, it is necessary to develop digital platforms that allow designers easy access to data on recyclable and sustainable materials.
The RES2 roadmap suggests the creation of regional platforms, supported by European funds, that can facilitate access to this information and promote the use of international standards like openBIM. This integration would enable small local manufacturers to make their products more visible and competitive, accelerating the adoption of sustainable solutions.
Support for Green Regulations and Certified Training
In addition to developing innovative materials, producers are actively collaborating with institutions to improve regulations concerning energy efficiency and sustainable construction. However, to reduce the time needed for the adoption of new technologies, it is essential that producers also participate in the technical committees that define the sector’s digital standards.
Another crucial element for accelerating the transition is the official recognition of training provided by manufacturers. The RES2 roadmap proposes the creation of official registries for those who complete practical on-site courses, giving formal value to these skills. This would not only increase the visibility of innovative solutions but also facilitate their adoption by both public and private clients.
A Call to Producers
The RES2 roadmap serves as an essential guide to accelerating the dual digital and green transition in the construction sector. To achieve these ambitious goals, the contribution of all actors in the supply chain is vital, starting with technology and material producers. Therefore, we invite producers, large and small, to endorse the roadmap and collaborate to build a sustainable future where zero-energy buildings and advanced technologies become the norm, improving quality of life and reducing environmental impact.
RES2 offers a platform for dialogue and concrete solutions to overcome current challenges, creating a qualified workforce ready to operate in a rapidly evolving sector.