Learn more about the Sustainable Buildings and Construction Summit 2026 here
The Sustainable Buildings and Construction Summit 2026 will take place on 20-22 April 2026 at the Swisstech Convention Center in Lausanne, Switzerland, co-organized by EPFL and UNEP as the host of the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GlobalABC).
This global event aims to bring together more than 700 participants, including government officials, city leaders, architects, engineers, researchers, and young professionals, to share ideas and drive solutions for a more sustainable and resilient buildings sector.
The GlobalABC Annual Assembly 2026, ICBC Technical Meeting (TBC), along with Buildings-Cement-Steel Breakthrough Meetings (TBC) will take place during the Summit.
Where Innovation Meets Action
The Sustainable Buildings and Construction Summit is a pivotal event designed to accelerate the global transition towards sustainable construction and buildings. More than just a conference, this is a call to action. With a particular focus on developing countries, where the most significant growth and impact in the built environment are expected, the summit aims to empower these regions with knowledge, tools, and opportunities for collaboration. In doing so, it seeks to collectively shape a more sustainable and resilient built future for all.
EPFL’s renowned academic expertise is a critical anchor for evidence-based discussion, while GlobalABC’s network of buildings stakeholders ensures global outreach, inclusivity, and alignment with the UN’s climate and development goals. As the leading global platform for a zero-emission, efficient, and resilient buildings sector, the GlobalABC will bring together 380+ members from across the public and private sectors to celebrate achievements, share best practices, and set bold priorities for the year ahead.
Participants can expect a lively, hands-on programme that is expected to include:
💡In-depth Capacity-Building Opportunities
> Academic Showcases – Featuring latest research and innovations by students from EPFL and leading international universities.
> Interactive Workshops – Workshops to share practical knowledge on materials innovation, climate-resilient design, building retrofits, future-ready urban planning, and advanced digital tools.
> Solution-Focused Roundtables – Involving cross-sectoral stakeholders who will co-create actionable solutions for a sustainable and resilient built environment.
🏛️ Platforms for Global Policy & Leadership for Climate-Resilient Buildings
> High-Level Opening Ceremony – Featuring keynotes from government leaders across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, alongside industry leaders and international champions of sustainable construction.
> Intergovernmental Council for Buildings and Climate (ICBC) Meeting (TBC)– Convening with over 48 countries and 17 observers committed to climate action in the buildings sector.
> Buildings-Cement-Steel Breakthroughs (TBC) – Forums co-led by international organizations to foster collaboration and set the path forward on specific action tracks
🤝 Networking Spaces for connecting with the Global Sustainable Buildings Community during energizing coffee breaks and relaxed evening receptions.
What the Summit Will Focus On
Ten key themes will shape the agenda:
1. Urgent Housing Needs – Addressing the global shortage through equitable, environmentally sustainable and climate resilient solutions.
2. Sustainable Urban Planning – Featuring new paradigms like the “infinite city.”
3. Resilient Infrastructure – With a spotlight on post-disaster recovery and climate adaptation.
4. Sustainable Construction – Rethinking materials, recycling, and life-cycle approaches.
5. Academic-Policy Collaboration – Bridging research and real-world implementation.
6. Innovative Building Materials and Techniques – Including technologies, and vernacular methods.
7. Financing Green Construction – Exploring public-private mechanisms to scale innovation.
8. Global South Engagement – With academic partnerships in countries like Pakistan and Bangladesh.
9. Youth and Future Leadership – Elevating next-generation voices in architecture and planning.
10. Breakthrough Coalitions and Roadmaps – Aligning on pathways for decarbonization and resilience.
Why Lausanne and EPFL?
Lausanne, set on the shores of Lake Geneva, is both a lively Swiss city and a leader in sustainable urban living. Home to EPFL—one of Europe’s most forward-thinking science and technology universities—the city provides a fitting backdrop for a summit focused on innovation, design, and climate leadership. EPFL’s facilities, laboratories, and partnerships with industry and government make it an ideal host for this global exchange.
Get Involved
The venue offers various spaces that can be adapted to offer multiple auditoriums and meeting rooms, and there is room for hosting more meetings for initiatives and projects.
To explore hosting and sponsorship opportunities, please contact [email protected].
Participant registration will open soon. Stay tuned for updates on how to join this landmark event shaping the future of sustainable buildings and construction.
