Sustainability
Begins with Us
Discover Austria’s Construction Innovation
September 22-28, 2024
Video Courtesy of Binderholz GmbH
Join us for a transformative seven-day engagement against the backdrop of Austria’s Alpine Region and its capital city, Vienna. Learn why Austria is a global leader in green, disruptive technologies and sustainable construction which manifest in outstanding economic, social and ecological benefits. Austria has pioneered advancements in timber construction, fire prevention, reforestation, setting a global standard that efficiently increases housing production and provides a comprehensive climate strategy.
The Alpine Region is home to innovative timber companies that have a deep understanding of ecological elements including reforestation and fire prevention. Vienna is where it all comes into practice. The study of Austria’s advances in green building and modular construction inspire change-makers to find new ways to preserve the planet.
What to Expect
You will join a cohort of thought leaders and advocates who will participate in two workgroups prior to the trip and two debrief sessions on key learnings and implementation strategies upon returning.
Each encounter, conversation and site visit will provide the opportunity for learning and promoting new ideas and potential partnerships. You will see and experience the process of green building technology from beginning to end – from lumber processing and design to final construction.
Preliminary Program
DAY 1 - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22: ZÜRICH, SWITZERLAND > VORARLBERG, AUSTRIA
Arrive at Switzerland Zürich Airport in the afternoon, and board the coach to cross the border into Austria and into the Rhine Valley and the Alps. In the evening you will enjoy a traditional Austrian dinner in Vorarlberg, where you will raise a toast to a full week of learning and discovery.
DAY 2 - MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23: VORARLBERG / TYROL
You will meet with an innovative company that has revolutionized the construction world with its unique timber-based prefabricated systems, which have been used in flagship buildings around the globe. In the afternoon you will travel to Tyrol to meet with officials and tour an important assembly plant, and one of the largest all-wood residential complexes in the area.
DAY 3 - TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24: CARINTHIA / SALZBURG
This morning, you travel to the southernmost state of Carinthia, known for its lakes, mountains, and timber. Meet the leadership of one of the oldest family-owned companies and visit their plant. In the afternoon, you depart for historic Salzburg.
DAY 4 - WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25: SALZBURG / VIENNA
The day begins with a visit and tour to another well-known company that produces prefabricated solid wood components for multi-story residential construction. Lunch will be served in the historic center of Salzburg where you will meet with industry leaders. Following lunch, you depart for Vienna.
DAY 5 - THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26: VIENNA
Take public transportation to visit one of Vienna’s most exciting housing developments, where you will engage in conversation with leadership, architects, planners and visit innovative and relevant architectural sites. In the afternoon you will meet with various experts to discuss forest regeneration, fire protection and building code regulations.
DAY 6 - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27: VIENNA
Take in other city sites showcasing sustainable construction and meet with experts and companies that will discuss the various processes that have made Austria a leader in housing production and sustainably.
DAY 7 - SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28: VIENNA
We leave Austria and take with us a wealth of knowledge to inspire us to continue innovation in the sustainable construction space.
DISCLAIMER:
Some locations may be subject to change.
Photo Courtesy of Binderholz GmbH
Why Join?
Over the course of the study you will:
Be more informed and up-to-date
Lead with your knowledge and work
Re-imagine the possibilities
Apply the Austrian model to your work
Be part of a dynamic learning network that can lead to policy changes and innovation
Apply lessons for resiliency that fosters sustainable construction in a regenerative society
Photo Courtesy of Binderholz GmbH
Who Should Attend?
This opportunity is open to thought leaders, innovators, legislators, construction professionals and those interested in sustainable technologies and methodologies to address climate change and the housing crisis.
The program is designed for anyone who wants to learn about innovative models that can be transformative to how we build planned cities in a sustainable, regenerative and compelling way.
The learning will be useful for people who are interested in innovation that can be adapted to their work and their own leadership practices for system change.
Pricing
(Deadline to reserve your spot: June 3, 2024)
The all-inclusive price (flights excluded) includes program and materials, private room hotel accommodations for 6 nights at various locations, all meals and snacks, in-country and airport transportation and administration costs.
Cost | $8,000
Early Registration | $7,500 (in full by May 22, 2024)
Reserve your spot with a $1,000 deposit by June 3, 2024. Final payment is due by June 17, 2024.
Meet the Facilitators
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Gerhard Mayer
AIA LEED-AP, Architect & Urbanist
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Colin Mangham
Director of Corporate Sustainability and Innovation, US Green Building Council California
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Fabiola Vilchez Ascher
Managing Partner, Diplomatica
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