As the climate emergency is challenging engineers to acknowledge the wider implications of their designs, the Novel material series inspires professionals to consider novel uses of structural materials and offers practical advice on implementing successfully a broader palette of non-traditional materials.
In this weboinar, expert speakers share case studies highlighting the benefits of using materials that grow or are a natural part of the biosphere, such as cork, whole-trees and sugarcane, in place of common construction materials and explore how to overcome the common challenges involved in their implementation.
Reasons to watch
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Explore the unique properties of cork, whole-tress and sugarcane
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Delve into the long-term environmental advantages of implementing bio-based construction solutions, such as reduced carbon footprint and improved resource efficiency
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Learn the benefits of implementing these materials in your designs
Intended for
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Engineers wanting to know more about effective solutions for improving the environmental performance of their projects
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Wider built-environment professionals involved in projects that use bio-based materials
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Academic researchers and students wishing to stay ahead of the curve in materials science and engineering
Associate, AKT
Nicolo is currently involved in high profile commercial and retail projects in central London. Throughout his career he has managed teams and delivered high profile engineering projects in the UK, USA and KSA. He has worked on the Battersea Power Station Phase 2 Redevelopment, the Wimbledon AELTC Millennium building and the King Abdullah Financial District Metro projects.
Creative Director, Yes Make
Joel is a designer-maker and founder of a social enterprise called Yes Make. They use reclaimed materials from London to design and build beautiful public spaces with local people. Their work spans structures, sculptures, playgrounds, community buildings and more. Yes Make's workshop is based in a community garden in Canada Water, London, where they design and build their work with children, young people and volunteers of all ages.
Specialist Technology, Arup
Gavin began his career with Arup, London, where he gained extensive experience in working with bio-based materials. He was involved in the engineering design of Cork House, winner of the Wood Award’s Gold Award in 2019. He currently leads Arup’s specialist technology and research team in Canada.
Professor of Sustainable Design, University of Bristol
James worked on a wide variety of projects and has designed in a variety of materials, including steel, concrete, timber, earth, straw and glass. In 2015, James moved full-time into academia, where he teaches structural design with a focus on low-carbon solutions. He has co-written Conceptual Design of Buildings and Designing Timber Structures.