This year’s Tech Tour Sustainable Construction programme is well underway. Culminating in a live event on October 16-17, 2024, in Lausanne, Switzerland, the programme is set to be a pivotal gathering for the design, construction, materials, and infrastructure sectors. With 30 meticulously selected companies, 50+ seasoned investors, and a range of high-value corporates, experts and mentors, the event promises to foster meaningful connections, drive strategic partnerships, and spark (co-)investments that will propel the industry forward.
We recently interviewed programme President Frédéric Dreyer to get his insights on the upcoming event. Frédéric is a seasoned expert with over a decade of experience in microtechnology and innovation. Currently leading innovation and partnerships at EPFL, he also mentors startups and SMEs, co-founded the SwissInspect startup, and founded the FUSTIC association to promote sustainable development.
TT: Please share with us a little more about your personal vision and mission
FD: My leitmotiv is: “Being at the right place at the right time.” Serendipity is my life. Keeping a high level of attention for the unexpected and being able to come up with a relevant, yet creative interpretation makes me an out-of-the-box and impactful innovation leader. In 2022, I got the opportunity to found an association at EPFL called FUSTIC for Future Sustainable Territories, Infrastructure and Cities, to promote the societal and ecological transition by championing research in digital technology and sustainable cities, regions and infrastructure. Through a broad range of initiatives – spanning awareness-raising, inspiration, support, education, promotion and awards – the association seeks to put innovative ideas to work for the benefit of citizens, businesses, policymakers, NGOs and researchers. FUSTIC operates as a research and innovation network, connecting members in Switzerland with peers elsewhere in the world. FUSTIC is proud to be partner of Tech Tour Sustainable construction since last year and for this second edition in October.
TT: Why did you decide to lead the Tech Tour Sustainable Construction programme? What inspired you?
FD: Tech Tour Sustainable Construction is more than an event – it is a community, a network, and a catalyst for connecting change-makers. The programme connects experts from various fields (engineering, architecture, urban planning, finance) to collaborate and share innovative solutions. Combining climate issues with the construction sector within a Tech Tour programme can catalyze innovation, attract investments, and promote sustainable practices essential for combating climate change. I believe we can help not only to reduce the ecological footprint of construction but also to enhance the resilience of buildings against future climate impacts.
TT: What are some key fields where you see the Sustainable Construction programme creating value?
FD: Organizing a Tech Tour programme focused on climate issues and the construction sector makes sense for several reasons:
1. Environmental Impact of Construction
Resource Consumption: The construction sector is one of the largest consumers of natural resources. The extraction, processing, and transportation of construction materials generate significant CO2 emissions.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The construction and operation of buildings account for a substantial portion of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
2. Technological Innovation for Sustainability
New Materials: Innovations in construction materials, such as low-carbon concrete or recycled materials, can reduce the carbon footprint of buildings.
Construction Technologies: More efficient construction methods, like prefabrication and modular construction, can reduce waste and emissions.
Energy and Efficiency: Technologies enabling the construction of energy-positive or passive buildings significantly reduce energy needs.
3. Regulations and Public Policies
Standards and Certifications: New green building standards and certifications (like LEED, BREEAM) encourage companies to adopt more sustainable practices.
Climate Policies: Many cities and countries are implementing policies to achieve carbon neutrality goals, necessitating transformations in the construction sector.
4. Investment and Market Opportunities
Growing Demand: There is increasing demand for sustainable buildings from consumers, businesses, and governments.
Return on Investment: Green technologies in construction offer new investment opportunities with potential high returns due to energy savings and long-term cost reductions.
TT: What is your mission as a President of the event?
FD: As programme president, my primary mission is centered around community building and fostering meaningful connections. I focus on engaging key stakeholders, including startups, investors, industry experts, academic institutions like EPFL and FUSTIC, and government bodies, to create a robust network that supports ongoing collaboration beyond the event. Together with Vice-President Willem Bulthuis, Co-Founder of Better Building Initiative, and the Tech Tour team, we curate content by selecting and organizing presentations, panels, and workshops that showcase innovative technologies and practices in sustainable construction. Additionally, during the event, we prioritize matchmaking by facilitating introductions and connections between startups, investors, and other stakeholders to promote partnerships and investment opportunities, ultimately encouraging collaborations that drive advancements in sustainable construction.
TT: What are you going to look for in the companies that are selected for Tech Tour Sustainable Construction 2024?
FD: There are a wide range of factors that I personally look at, to ensure only top-notch companies are selected for the programme.
Novelty: Does the company offer a unique technology or solution that addresses significant challenges in sustainable construction?
Impact: How transformative is their innovation in terms of reducing carbon footprint, improving energy efficiency, or promoting circular economy practices?
Scalability: Can the company's solution be scaled up effectively to make a meaningful impact in the construction industry?
Market Demand: Is there a demonstrated market demand or potential for their product or service? Are they solving a pressing industry need?
Sustainable Impact: How does the company contribute to sustainability goals? Are their products or processes designed to minimize environmental impact?
Carbon Footprint: To what extent does the company contribute to reducing carbon emissions or promoting sustainable resource management?
Vision: Are the founders and leadership committed to sustainability and driving positive change in the construction sector?
Revenue Model: What is their revenue generation strategy? Is it sustainable and aligned with their growth plans?
Ecosystem Engagement: Is the company open to collaboration with other stakeholders such as investors, industry partners, or research institutions?
Partnership Potential: Are there opportunities for strategic partnerships that can accelerate their growth and market reach?
TT: What are you most excited about the onsite event of Tech Tour Sustainable Construction 2024?
FD: I’m excited by future fruitful networking opportunities, showcasing innovations, gaining valuable learnings and insights, and engaging in impactful discussions about the future of sustainable construction. Overall, the onsite event of Tech Tour Sustainable Construction 2024 promises to be a dynamic and inspiring gathering of industry leaders and innovators committed to shaping a more sustainable future for generations to come.
TT: What keeps you up at night?
FD: I cannot live with the idea that the status quo we're seeing can't be challenged. Our kids deserve a better future, and the future we all want starts today! It is our responsibility to take bold actions and push the boundaries of what’s possible. We must innovate, collaborate, and leverage the best of technology and sustainable practices to create a world that is not only habitable, but thriving, for generations to come. Every step we take now, no matter how small, sets the foundation for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow. Let’s come together to reimagine and rebuild a future that reflects our highest aspirations and values.
To meet with Frédéric and be part of this fascinating gathering of minds, register here ahead of the Early-bird deadline of 16 August.
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