As global temperatures become more extreme and deadlines for sustainability targets loom, the need increases for more energy-efficient thermoregulation solutions. Researchers are striving to tighten the performance and comfort of our built environments with material developments and technologies conscious of cost and carbon emissions.

Concrete is the most abundant manufactured material on Earth, and its key binding ingredient cement generates about 8% of all global CO2 emissions. A new generation of biological and waste-based alternatives strive to lessen concrete’s enormous carbon footprint, while a self-healing development could repair historic structures and increase the lifespan of modern architecture.

Automated construction presents viable opportunities to confront global housing shortages with fast-produced, affordable and energy-efficient homes. Ambitious 3D printing projects in the Middle East are also set to showcase its potential for modern hospitals and urban developments, while bio-based builds could rival cement-based inks in terms of sustainability.

A critical onus is on architects, developers and designers to reuse and reimagine existing buildings and salvage materials to deploy embodied carbon (the emissions from manufacturing). Industry incentives, tools and a burgeoning culture of reuse show promise for future circularity and waste reduction, while demountable structures could prevent demolitions.