Sustainability

Begins with Us

Discover Austria’s Construction Innovation

Coming Fall of 2025

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 about Austria’s global leadership in green, disruptive technologies and sustainable construction practices which manifest in outstanding economic, social and ecological advantages. Austria has pioneered advancements in timber construction, fire prevention, and 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, advocates and professionals that will engage by participating 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, May 4: 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, May: 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, May 6: 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, May 7: 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, May 8: 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, May 9: 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 environmental and sustainably.

DAY 7 - SATURDAY, May 10: VIENNA

We leave Austria and take 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 informed and up-to-date on critical technologies
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 that seek to address climate change and the housing crisis.

The program is designed for anyone who wants to learn about transformative models that build and plan cities in a sustainable and regenerative manner.

Pricing

(Reserve your spot)

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, translation, and airport transportation.

Cost | $8,000

Early Registration | $7,500 (in full by TBD)

Registration ends TBD ($1,000 deposit is required to hold your spot). Final payment due by TBD.

Meet the Facilitators

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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