International cooperation in construction research
The construction sector and businesses related to the built environment account for a large part of the European economy. In some countries, real estate and construction account for up to a quarter of gross domestic product (GDP) and 70 % of national assets, and can employ up to 20 % of the workforce. The relationship between construction and sustainable development is significant as buildings have a large impact on energy and resource use. However, the sector is conservative by nature and organised largely at the local level — factors that hamper efforts to achieve greater sustainability. A number of European policies are introducing greater energy efficiency, product standards and sustainability to the sector. The EU-funded 'Strategic networking of RDI programmes in construction and operation of buildings' (ERACOBUILD) project has added to efforts by increasing international cooperation in research and development for the sector. ERACOBUILD brought together national, regional and transnational funding bodies and policymakers from 22 countries to co-fund research initiatives that address the big challenges facing construction. Priorities include improving the quality and efficiency of processes in the construction and operation of buildings, reducing the use of non-renewable resources, making buildings safer and healthier, and new working practices and communications technologies to make processes more efficient. The project developed a strategy for future research in the building sector and managed several funding calls allocating around EUR 12 m for joint cooperation initiatives. Ending in 2012, ERACOBUILD efforts laid the foundations for international cooperation to drive innovation in the building industry, and will enable this major sector to have a positive impact on overall sustainability.
