Constructive Voices
Net Zero
PodcastsS4, E16: The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD): A Game-Changer for European Building Sustainability With Stephen Barrett of the IGBC
The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD): A Game-Changer for European Building Sustainability With Stephen Barrett of the IGBC, S4, E16 – article & podcast LISTEN BELOW TO THE FULL EPISODE The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) is a European Union directive focused on improving the energy performance of buildings. It aims to reduce […]
Stephen Barrett · 7/28/2025
Constructive Voices NewsS4, E15: From Refugee Training To The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive And A Newborn Okapi
From Refugee Training To The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive And A Newborn Okapi – news podcast s4, e15 (6 minutes) Welcome to the very first edition of the Constructive Voices Good News Podcast— a short, sharp burst of uplifting stories from the built environment, with a side of conservation. Hosted by Jackie De Burca, […]
Jackie De Burca · 7/27/2025
Malaysia Built EnvironmentUnder the Ambitious Forest City Blueprint Lies a Stark Reality
Under the Ambitious Forest City Blueprint Lies a Stark Reality By Yuyang Zhang, Yuyang Zhang is a postgraduate student specialising in smart and sustainable cities at Trinity College Dublin, Ireland. Passionate about data analysis, smart cities, and media communication, Yuyang aims to drive societal progress through technology and innovation. Forest City Project – Johor, Malaysia Environmental destruction, financial risks, and a growing […]
Yuyang Zhang · 4/24/2025
Net ZeroStudy Reveals How To Reduce The Carbon Footprint Of Houses
Study Reveals How To Reduce The Carbon Footprint Of Houses Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and Corvinus University of Budapest A house’s carbon footprint decreases more than 1kg in carbon dioxide equivalent for every euro (around £0.80p) invested in sustainable building materials, finds new research from Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and Corvinus University of […]
Jackie De Burca · 2/12/2025
PodcastsS4, E2: Exploring Vancouver's Urban Design with Alexandra Steed
S4, E2: Exploring Vancouver’s Urban Design with Alexandra Steed: author, urban designer, landscape architect & city correspondent Tune into the first exciting episode of the Constructive Voices’ City Correspondents initiative with an enlightening discussion featuring Alexandra Steed. A seasoned landscape architect, author and urban designer, Alexandra shares her insights from her dual practices in London, […]
Alexandra Steed · 1/16/2025
PodcastsS4, E1: Paving the Way to Zero CO2 Cement with Ryan Gilliam of Fortera
S4, E1: Paving the Way to Zero CO2 Cement with Ryan Gilliam of Fortera In this exciting kickoff to Season 4, Constructive Voices host Jackie De Burca sits down with one of TIME’s Top 100 Climate Leaders for 2024, Ryan Gilliam, CEO and Co-Founder of Fortera. Cement production, a cornerstone of modern infrastructure, is responsible […]
Ryan Gilliam · 1/6/2025
ExpertsVictoria Burrows, World Green Building Council
VICTORIA BURROWS INTERVIEW Victoria is Director of Advancing Net Zero, World Green Building Council’s (WorldGBC) pioneering, global programme to accelerate total decarbonisation of the built environment. In this role at the World Green Building Council, Victoria oversees and supports Green Building Councils participating in the programme, as well as a number of other partnerships which […]
Jackie De Burca · 9/27/2024
ExpertsAlexandra Steed, Author & Landscape Architect
ALEXANDRA STEED INTERVIEW SERIES Alexandra Steed is the author of Portrait to Landscape: A Landscape Strategy to Reframe Our Future Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Alexandra Steed, a passionate landscape architect and Fellow of the Landscape Institute (FLI) and the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), has a profound commitment to art, sustainability, and the transformative power of […]
Jackie De Burca · 9/16/2024
Digital EnvironmentalismThe Rise of Digital Environmentalism: Social Media as a Tool for Change
The Rise of Digital Environmentalism: Social Media as a Tool for Change Environmental activism has evolved from grassroots movements to a global effort fuelled by social media. Digital environmentalism leverages the power of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to raise awareness, mobilise communities, and inspire change. By amplifying voices, sharing vital information, and fostering […]
Jackie De Burca · 9/6/2024
Built EnvironmentS3, E5 Dr Ciaran Byrne, Director, S.E.A.I. on Ireland's Retrofitting Success Stories, Challenges & Opportunities
S3, E5: Dr Ciaran Byrne, Director, SEAI on Ireland’s Retrofitting Success Stories, Challenges and Opportunities In this enlightening episode of the Constructive Voices Podcast, Jackie De Burca talks to Dr. Ciaran Byrne, the Director of National Retrofit in Ireland. He offers invaluable insights into the country’s experience to date and the future of retrofitting in […]
Dr Ciaran Byrne · 6/11/2024
ArchitectureLiving Buildings: Integrating Natural Habitats into Architectural Design
Did you know, over 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions come from buildings? This highlights the urgent need to change how we build. ‘Living buildings’ seamlessly blend biophilic architecture, sustainable design, and green infrastructure. They create a balance between nature and our constructions. Such an approach is more than sustainable building. It aims to boost […]
Jackie De Burca · 5/28/2024
BiodiversityTrinidad and Tobago Biodiversity and the Built Environment
Trinidad and Tobago is known for its rich biodiversity, diverse ecosystems, and unique animal and plant species. The preservation of this diverse natural heritage is vital for environmental sustainability and the well-being of both present and future generations. As the country focuses on urban development, it is crucial to integrate biodiversity conservation into the built […]
Jackie De Burca · 4/13/2024
BiodiversityWhat are Ireland's plans for biodiversity, nature restoration and green buildings?
Ireland is taking big steps towards more biodiversity, nature restoration, and green buildings. It’s following EU rules like the ‘Fit for 55’ and the Green Deal. Ireland wants to protect nature and build in a green way. It’s working to keep soils healthy, make farming better, and cut down pollution. This puts Ireland as a […]
Jackie De Burca · 4/10/2024
BiodiversityGuatemala Biodiversity: Animal and Plant Species and What Is Under Threat
Did you know that Guatemala is home to an astounding number of animal and plant species? With its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, this Central American country is truly a natural wonder. However, this exceptional biodiversity is under threat, facing significant challenges that require urgent attention. From habitat loss to species exploitation, Guatemala’s unique flora […]
Jackie De Burca · 4/8/2024
Green BuildingLebanon Green Building History
Near Zero-Energy Buildings in Lebanon: The Use of Emerging Technologies and Passive Architecture https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339941101_Near_Zero-Energy_Buildings_in_Lebanon_The_Use_of_Emerging_Technologies_and_Passive_Architecture https://scenearabia.com/Life/reclaiming-space-inside-lebanon-contested-post-war-landscape-CAL-architecture-urban-planning?M=True UNESCO PDF https://www.thenationalnews.com/arts-culture/art/2021/12/06/the-lebanese-architect-offering-an-innovative-approach-to-sustainable-architecture/ Lebanon has a rich history of green building, with a strong emphasis on sustainable construction practices and environmental-friendly buildings. The country has been at the forefront of the green building movement, showcasing its commitment to creating a […]
Jackie De Burca · 4/8/2024
Green BuildingEstonia Green Building History
Estonia has a rich and inspiring history when it comes to sustainable architecture and construction practices. The country’s commitment to creating eco-friendly buildings has shaped its landscape and contributed to a greener future. One notable example of Estonia’s green building initiatives is the completion of the Alma Tomingas Building in Ülemiste City. Named after Alma […]
Jackie De Burca · 4/8/2024
Green BuildingChina Green Building History
In recent years, China has become a global leader in sustainable construction practices and eco-friendly architecture. But the roots of this movement go back centuries, to traditional principles of environmental design that have been passed down from generation to generation. China’s commitment to sustainable urban development and green building initiatives has transformed its architectural landscape […]
Jackie De Burca · 4/8/2024
Green BuildingJapan Green Building History
Japan’s green building history is a fascinating journey that showcases the country’s pioneering efforts in sustainable architecture and eco-friendly construction practices. Japan has a rich history in sustainable architecture and eco-friendly construction. Renowned architect Kengo Kuma has played a significant role in combining traditional Japanese architecture with contemporary designs. The yakisugi process, involving wood burning, […]
Jackie De Burca · 4/8/2024
BiodiversityJapan Biodiversity and the Built Environment
Did you know that Japan is home to over 90,000 species of wildlife, many of which are found nowhere else in the world? This incredible biodiversity is a result of the country’s unique ecosystems and diverse landscapes. However, rapid urbanization and development pose significant threats to the natural habitats and species in Japan. As conservation […]
Jackie De Burca · 3/7/2024
BiodiversityCosta Rica Biodiversity and the Built Environment
Costa Rica, located on the Isthmus of Panama, is known for its remarkable biodiversity. Despite making up only 0.03% of the world’s landmass, it is home to about 5% of the Earth’s known species. The unique geographic location, with mountains and coastlines on both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, has contributed to the creation of […]
Jackie De Burca · 2/29/2024
BiodiversityArmenia Biodiversity and the Built Environment
Armenia is a country renowned for its rich biodiversity and the harmonious integration of nature into the built environment. Conservation efforts, urban planning, and sustainable development are at the forefront of Armenia’s commitment to preserving ecological diversity and promoting green architecture. With its diverse landscapes and unique ecosystems, Armenia provides essential wildlife habitats within its […]
Jackie De Burca · 2/29/2024