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 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.
DGNB Idea Labl 2026
- When: 28 April 2026
- Where: Circle Cube, Hafenallee 61, 63067 Offenbach
While it has become commonplace to discuss the many aspects of sustainable, circular construction in building projects, transport infrastructure construction, including bridge building, tends to fly under the public radar. Does this mean that less is happening in this area? Or is it perhaps the case that the potential for climate action and resource conservation is already being better exploited in the infrastructure sector? The DGNB Idea Lab took a realistic look at the status quo of construction practice in the infrastructure sector. To what extent are sustainability and circularity already being put into practice? How high are the rates of reuse? And what can the building sector learn from infrastructure construction?
At the beginning, there have been multiple insights from the field that will enable an honest assessment of the current situation. In the second part of the Idea Lab, participants have also been actively encouraged to contribute and share their knowledge and perspectives. The event was organised by the DGNB in partnership with the 'Circle – der Ort für zirkuläres Bauen'.
Tip: We will be continuing the discussion at the DGNB Sustainability Day: Under the title ‘On the Road Again: Ideas for a sustainable, circular infrastructure’, we will be discussing the key findings from the DGNB Ideas Lab on 17 June 2026. |
| Time | Programme |
|---|---|
| 1 pm | Check-in |
| 1:30 pm | Welcome and introductory talks:
|
| 3 pm | Break |
| 3:30 pm | Joint discussion |
| 4:45 pm | Wrap-up |
| 5 pm | Expected end of the event |
Partner of the event
Your contact
Julia Treiber
Project Manager Trade Fairs and Events
- Phone: +49-711-722322-29
- Email: J.TREIBER@DGNB.DE