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The third edition of the LNEC Lisbon Conference, organized by LNEC, brought together experts, policy makers, and representatives from the construction sector to discuss the challenges and solutions for a more sustainable built environment. During two days of lectures and round tables, topics such as the industrialization of construction, smart cities, and the circular economy were discussed.

Throughout the various sessions, examples of good practices and innovative solutions were presented, and paths and strategies for modernizing the sector were debated. The importance of integrating technological innovation with environmental and social sustainability was emphasized.

In the opening session, the chair of the LNEC Board of Directors, Laura Caldeira, stressed that “the need to increase the supply of quality, affordable housing is an urgent challenge, especially in regions with greater urban pressure.” She also stressed the need to “rehabilitate the extensive existing building stock, preserving the built heritage and improving safety, comfort, and functionality.” She also argued that the modernization of the sector “implies a profound transformation based on industrialization, the use of innovative materials, and the integration of digital processes,” adding that “it is essential to invest in training, research, and technological education.”

The president of the Organizing Committee, Álvaro Vale e Azevedo, emphasized the collaborative and practical nature of the meeting: “We are living in a crucial moment in which the construction, architecture, and urban planning sectors are called upon to rethink their practices in light of urgent climate, social, and economic issues.” He explained that the conference was designed to “share experiences and open up avenues for strategic partnerships that transform ideas into reality.”

The Secretary of State for Housing, Patrícia Gonçalves Costa, highlighted the importance of aligning innovation and public policy: “We are living in demanding times. The response to the housing crisis must be strategic, innovative, and strongly supported by technology.” The architect recalled that “the largest ever investments in public housing are underway, with around €10 billion already channeled,” and announced the goal of “59,000 new housing solutions by 2030.” She also stressed that the industrialization of construction is “not only an opportunity but an urgent necessity, allowing for reduced environmental impacts and greater efficiency.”

The conference also highlighted the importance of preserving built heritage, promoting carbon neutrality, and rethinking cities as people-centered, more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable spaces.

At the close of the event, João Branco Pedro, Director of the Buildings Department at LNEC, presented seven key ideas that emerged from the event. Among these, he highlighted the need to accelerate the industrialization and digitalization of the sector, to modernize the regulatory framework, and to view environmental sustainability and heritage preservation as a single challenge.

The conference ended with a commitment to transform the ideas discussed into concrete proposals, in the words of Laura Caldeira: “We want them to serve as a basis for defining more effective public policies and guiding scientific and technological research that will shape the future of the built environment in Portugal.”

With a dynamic and participatory format, which included round tables, exhibitions of good practices, and spaces for informal conversations, in addition to conferences by experts, the LNEC Lisbon Conference 2025 established itself as an essential meeting point for the future.