Four pathways to transformation

The work of SUSTAINORDIC

SUSTAINORDIC

has focused on knowledge gathering around the question of what it takes to implement a truly sustainable construction sector in the Nordics.  Based on input from Nordic urban planners, policy makers, architects, engineers, developers, building owners, grassroot movements and activists collected through 28 panel debates and events as well as numerous conversations with experts connected to the SUSTAINORDIC project. The findings from the first phase of knowledge gathering have pointed towards four focus areas or levers for change. In this publication, we have asked 24 experts to offer their perspectives on these four pathways.

We should intensify the utilization of the existing building stock and design spaces for multifunctional and flexible purposes. Prioritizing energy renovation, renovation, and transformation over new construction is crucial. Introduction of new materials should only occur when absolutely necessary, and in such cases, the use of biogenic building materials is recommended for both new construction and renovation to mitigate the negative impact of embedded energy. 

Construction and architecture should be defined by the context in terms of local material and resource availability, cultural, social, and aesthetic context as well as legislative context working actively with architecture as a community shaper and a nudger of sustainable behaviour as a lever for change. This focus area explores a holistic and place-based approach to community building and urban development in the Nordic region to reduce the environmental impact of buildings and infrastructure, promote more sustainable lifestyle choices, build stronger and more resilient communities, and preserve local cultural and aesthetic traditions and values.

There is a significant need to include voices that lack the economic or political leverage required to influence the current construction system. These voices or stakeholders include future generations and the planet and its nine planetary boundaries. New leadership structures and decision models are needed to ensure the representation of these stakeholders, who lack a voice in traditional democratic systems and current economic models. 

Governance and regulation have been repeatedly cited as both an obstacle and a potential lever for change. The aim and need are for legislation and regulation to be directed towards a consistent alignment between the safe operating space within planetary boundaries and our construction practices.

This publication is divided into four parts with interviews related to these four focus areas. It is important to note, however, that all elements are interconnected and therefore, the same recommendations may respond to several focus areas at once.