KIBECO Talk Zurich 2025
The KIBECO Talk in Zurich was a lively and stimulating event where we looked into the future of construction with experts and visionaries.
Entry from 12.06.2025
Inspiring presentations and in-depth discussions clearly demonstrated how important it is to put renewable building materials and the circular economy at the heart of our industry. It was about more than technical solutions – it was about attitude, courage and role models.
You can build without cement, conserve resources and break new ground – including beyond what is considered standard practice. However, it takes people and teams to implement these approaches for them to have a broad impact. Or as Stefan Köhler from SBB said: «It’s important to have the right people on board.» Major builders have to lead the way, show what is possible – as «problem solvers who create beacons,» as Martin Bodmer put it.
The building material clay was also remodelled: instead of being a relic from the past, it was viewed as a material with a future – with strengths that can be used constructively. In Yemen, multi-storey buildings are made of rammed clay, and clay is also used successfully in many other regions. So why not here too – a no-brainer surely?
A lively discussion about carbon pricing – with differing opinions between effective incentives and social responsibility – as well as a lively exchange with the audience rounded off the talk. The ensuing networking lunch saw further discussion, inquiries and the forging of new contacts.
A big thank you to everyone who contributed their perspectives and knowledge. These meetings provide the motivation and desire to carry on.
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Presentations from the KIBECO Talk Zurich 2025 (German):
Jörg Dietrich, SIA: New standards, old questions – how much regulation can practice tolerate?
Yves Deluz, Implenia AG: From master plan to climate plan – designing sites suitable for children
Martin Bodmer, Oxara AG: In the spotlight: construction with cement substitutes
Uwe Teutsch, HSLU: Think Earth – clay as a bridge from tradition to the future
Stefan Köhler, SBB: Working towards renewable building materials at SBB
Facilitation: Karin Frei
