This bilateral initiative, taking place on the 28th and 29th of January 2025, aims to promote sustainable innovation and the reuse of materials in construction. This study visit results from the collaboration between Norway's Proptech Innovation cluster and Portugal's Sustainable Habitat Cluster.
The EEA Grants Portugal Environment Programme is represented by Susana Escária, José Anadia, and Tiago Cardoso, alongside Filipa Rodrigues from the National Management Unit of the EEA Grants, Luís Bandeira from the Office of the Secretary of State for the Environment, the Norwegian Ambassador to Portugal, Hanne Brusletto, and João Telha.
The day’s agenda commenced with a morning session at the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto (FEUP), where green transition initiatives led by Proptech Innovation were discussed, with a particular focus on the application of sustainable technologies and techniques in construction.
In the afternoon, the team visited a pilot project in Braga, led by Grupo Casais, a pioneer in industrialized construction in the Iberian Peninsula through the CREE system. This innovative modular method combines wood and concrete, enabling more efficient construction processes, reduced execution timelines, and minimized waste and environmental impact. The technique is further distinguished by its promotion of the circular economy, facilitating material reuse and building deconstruction, offering sustainable solutions aligned with the sector's decarbonization goals. The exploration of early-stage concrete element reuse showcased how innovative practices are shaping the future of the circular economy in construction.
This initiative reinforces the EEA Grants' commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability, promoting best practices, and building connections between clusters from different countries.
Tomorrow, January 29th, the delegation will continue its visit with a diverse programme.