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From simulations to smart calculation tools: digitalization is playing an increasingly important role in construction. Digital tools are helping to find solutions to major societal challenges such as sustainability, climate adaptation, and the energy transition. Consider, for example, digital twins that  map out and distribute solar energy as efficiently as possible across a city. Or a digital copy of a city to calculate how to prevent flooding the best way possible.

“The underlying needs of residents are essential to the effectiveness of the energy transition,” states Thomas Hoppe, professor at the University of Twente. “We cannot accelerate the transition with technology alone.”

Scientists are building tools to help local governments better understand their infrastructure, improving safety and reducing costs. 

There is no silver-bullet solution to the housing shortage; it takes many small initiatives that everyone can contribute to.

The environment surrounding us has an impact on physical, mental, and social health. How can we make the most of it? Two experts explain.

To increase the impact of their research, built environment scientists are developing positive future scenarios. “The starting point for action.” 

“We need each other in the energy transition,” says associate professor Queena Qian. “It's not technology, but people who come first.”

Universities can play an important role in solving construction problems such as housing needs. “Focus on impact and connection.”

Short-term adaptation and long-term mitigation often collide. How to unlock opportunities for the built environment previously overlooked?

Collaboration with construction industry is crucial for academia

Collaboration and flexibility are key to innovating construction

The construction industry is stuck; digitization offers a solution

 More homes, better infrastructure: reshaping cities is essential

Human behavior is the basis of the energy transition

Innovation within Universities: Impact, Co-location, and the Fourth-Generation University