CIBSE played an active role at Futurebuild 2025, held at ExCeL London from 4-6 March. The event brought together the entire supply chain to showcase innovative solutions, inspire change, and share knowledge, all with the shared goal of driving sustainability and achieving net zero in the built environment.
Futurebuild’s mission aligns closely with CIBSE’s commitment to sustainability and performance excellence in building services engineering. Through a series of expert-led discussions and thought-provoking panels, CIBSE reinforced its position as a leading voice in the industry, addressing key challenges and opportunities in the journey towards a low-carbon future.
The Futurebuild Conversation - Achieving our low carbon future? Why aren’t we there yet?
CIBSE’s Head of Net Zero, Julie Godefroy, chaired a crucial discussion on the transition to a low-carbon future. The session explored the urgency of aligning HVAC and retrofit decisions with the UK’s legally binding 2050 net zero target. With HVAC systems designed today still likely to be in operation by 2050, the panel emphasised the importance of making the right choices now. The discussion highlighted existing technologies that can support net zero goals and addressed the barriers preventing their widespread adoption.
Lessons in carbon: The UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard (‘The Standard’)
Julie Godefroy also contributed as a speaker to this insightful panel discussion, which focused on the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard. The session examined the mandatory requirements within The Standard, illustrated by real-world case studies that demonstrated its practical implementation. The panel discussed the timeline for verification submissions and conformity claims, providing attendees with a roadmap for compliance and best practices.
Housing in a climate emergency – Why we need to go further and faster on housing standards
In another engaging panel, Julie Godefroy joined industry experts to discuss the urgent need for more ambitious housing standards. The session explored how local authorities and industry bodies are pushing beyond national regulations to create healthier, more sustainable homes. With the government’s pledge to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years, the discussion underscored the critical need for stronger policies that align with climate commitments.
Building Performance Reimagined – In partnership with CIBSE
Chaired by Dr. Anastasia Mylona, CIBSE’s Technical Director, this panel challenged conventional definitions of building performance and value. As the industry faces rapid technological and societal changes, the discussion explored what ‘good’ building performance should look like in the future. The session addressed the evolving skill sets, partnerships, and behaviors required to meet these new demands and redefine success in the built environment.
NABERS UK: The power of data-driven building performance – In partnership with CIBSE Certification Ltd
Chaired by Kieran O’Brien, Director at CIBSE Certification Ltd, this session delved into the impact of NABERS UK on improving building performance through data-driven insights. CIBSE Certification introduced NABERS UK and emphasised the importance of obtaining an initial rating as a foundation for continuous improvement. AECOM presented real-world examples, showcasing how actionable data can lead to meaningful performance enhancements.
Driving the conversation on sustainability
CIBSE’s presence at Futurebuild 2025 underscored its pivotal role in shaping the industry’s sustainable future. From net zero strategies to data-driven building performance, the discussions led by CIBSE experts provided valuable insights and practical guidance for professionals navigating the complexities of the built environment.
As the industry continues to push the boundaries of sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, CIBSE remains committed to driving the conversation and supporting professionals in making informed decisions that contribute to a more sustainable built environment.