In 1992 the decision was made to move several federal offices to the new Bundesländer. In 2005, the UBA was moved from Berlin to Dessau in Saxony-Anhalt, a state that has experienced radical demographic changes (shrinking) since German reunification.

Parallel to the transition from fossil to renewable energy, a transition from conventional to renewable materials is necessary. Most ‘sustainable building’ projects however focus mostly on the energy part. This building showcases the functionality of its building materials made from renewable raw materials while reaching passive house standard.

An inspiring example of subterranean building, integrated in the landscape and taking full advantage of the earths thermal insulation. Looking at vernacular architecture can teach us a lot about “locality” and diversification.

Although it is a bit tricky to find, this building is definitely worth a visit if you are into sustainable building. Unlike many other “sustainable” buildings, this building incorporates many aspects including material (re)use, renewable energy (canal water, solar), natural ventilation and the water cycle (helofytenfilter, green roof).

Beddington Zero Energy Development is the UK’s largest mixed use sustainable community. It was designed to create a thriving community in which ordinary people could enjoy a high quality of life, while living within their fair share of the Earth’s resources.

A former poor rural Austrian town bordering Hungary with no industry, a high unemployment rate and 70% of weekly commuters to Vienna transformed itself into an energy autonomous town in 2001 and is now producing more energy (heat, fuels, and electric power) from renewable resources than actually can be consumed in the town.