RILEM Spring Convention (6-7 April 2027)

“It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to Thessaloniki — a gathering of minds dedicated to one of the most pressing challenges facing our built environment today: wastes in building materials and structures.

As we look around the rapidly urbanizing world, one thing becomes clear — the construction industry plays a pivotal role not only in shaping our cities but also in shaping our planet’s future. While we build homes, offices, infrastructure, and dreams, we also generate massive quantities of waste. From demolition debris to surplus raw materials, from inefficient manufacturing processes to unsustainable design practices, building material waste is both a challenge and, if we’re innovative, a tremendous opportunity.

This conference brings together a diverse group of professionals: architects, engineers, scientists, policymakers, and entrepreneurs — each bringing a unique perspective to this complex issue. Over the coming days, we will explore key topics including material reuse, recycling innovations, circular economy strategies, policy frameworks, and the role of technology in reducing construction waste.

Our goal is not only to share knowledge, but to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and build actionable solutions that can be implemented across the globe. We believe that the future of sustainable construction lies in smart design, responsible sourcing, and a deep commitment to minimizing waste at every stage of the building lifecycle.

Let us use this opportunity to challenge conventional practices, to ask bold questions, and to leave here with new ideas and new partners in our shared mission.

It is a great pleasure to welcome RILEM members and guests to Thessaloniki, Greece, for our 2027 Spring Convention. This gathering continues our mission of fostering international collaboration and excellence in research on materials and structures. It will offer valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange, networking, and advancing our shared goals for sustainable development in the built environment.