Exploring sustainable and bio-based materials for low-carbon construction

Aim of the course:

This course aims to provide SMEs and professionals in the Habitat sector with a comprehensive understanding of the role of sustainable and bio-based materials in the decarbonisation of the built environment. It explores embodied carbon, whole life carbon assessment and the European regulatory framework, while analysing the technical, environmental and economic implications of timber, bio-based and low-carbon materials.

The course equips learners with the knowledge required to interpret lifecycle data, understand evolving EU policy signals and make informed material choices aligned with climate neutrality, circular economy and sustainable finance objectives.

Main ideas:

1. Embodied carbon is becoming a decisive factor in the climate performance of buildings as operational emissions decrease.
2. Bio-based materials offer significant potential for carbon storage, substitution effects and circular value chains when sustainably sourced and properly designed.
3. Decarbonising high-impact materials such as cement requires both technological innovation and material optimisation strategies.
4. Circular approaches (including reuse, recycling and material passports) transform buildings into long-term material banks.
5. EU policy instruments (EPBD, CPR, EU Taxonomy, Bioeconomy Strategy) are progressively reshaping material markets and investment decisions.