Sustainability is on everyone's lips in the construction and real estate industry - and in many different ways. There are debates, research and new developments. The question is: what do we really need? What actually helps to steer and accelerate the necessary change in the right direction? This is precisely the subject of the DGNB Ideas Lab, which takes place once a year.
The DGNB Ideas Lab 2025 took place in Stuttgart on 28 May 2025, with a focus on topics related to innovation in construction.
You can find the recording of the event (in German) here.
The format in a nutshell
With this series of events, which was launched in 2023, we are looking for the blind spots on the map of sustainable construction. Together, we want to identify topics and issues relevant to the success of transformation in the construction and real estate sector, especially those not yet in the spotlight. We want to bring knowledge to light and find the answers to unsolved questions.
The format is based on the principles of swarm intelligence and creativity. Everyone is invited to contribute their own knowledge and perspective. It can be wild and controversial. Open, but constructive. Critical but focused.
- We get out of our comfort zone and are open to different perspectives.
- We identify the blind spots on the map of sustainable construction - the issues that have not yet been addressed, but for which we urgently need solutions to help us move forward.
- We show where innovation is most needed - on the way to effective, rapidly implementable and scalable solutions.
- We do this by harnessing the creativity and knowledge of everyone involved.
- We are self-critical and question how good seemingly good ideas really are.
- We do not try to reinvent the wheel, because the goal is not simply to make existing solutions prettier or more accurate.
- We do not deal with marginal issues that have no transformational impact.
- We do not put our own particular interests first.
- Having a good time together is not the sole purpose of the event, but a positive side effect.
The 2025 DGNB Idea Lab
At this year’s Idea Lab on 28 May 2025 we focused on the relatively unexplored area of innovation in the construction process. Keynote speeches followed by an open-circle panel discussion (‘fishbowl’) offered the opportunity to explore topics such as:
- How do companies themselves remain innovative when it comes to sustainability?
- What can be done to align innovative ideas with market needs?
- How do you keep pace with innovations in the industry?
A particular highlight of the event was the presentations by this year’s finalists of the DGNB Sustainability Challenge. In a series of snappy, straight-to-the-point pitches, they showcased their innovations for greater sustainability in the building and property sector.
Your contact
Christine Klingel
Project Manager Trade Fairs and Events
- Phone: +49-711-722322-139
- Email: C.KLINGEL@DGNB.DE