Highlights of the discussion:
* “There will be ‘disruptive innovation’ for the building industry similar to how cellular telephones changed the communication landscape. Not only were phone companies affected, network of communication towers and hundreds of companies were created in the process.
* Half a trillion Euros lost by European’s electricity providers. Moving to sustainable buildings will dramatically affect utility providers and they need to be aware.
* The greatest results occur from collaboration and shared values, economics and quality drivers between architects, investors, owners, etc.
* Algae can be used in windows to block the sun and also can be used to harvest energy in the window panes.
* In retrofits, it is important to distinguish between historic and non-historic buildings. Non historic are readily adaptable. The challenges: existing orientation, envelope measures (most cost effective way to regulate energy usage in existing buildings but not readily adaptable).
* Large problem with ZNE buildings is the perception that they are more expensive. With the support of the investment community, ZNE buildings will move quickly.
Panelists included Steven Borncamp, Managing Director of International Living Future Institute, Kasper Guldager Jorgensen, Architect MAA of 3XN Architects, Massimo Roj and Piero Sartore of Progetto CMR.
