Panel discussion with leading professional firms

As part of the Fellowship, a panel discussion will be held on August 14, 2024, at the Center for Architecture in New York City. Panelists from SOM, Arup and Henning Larsen will discuss strategies for scaling up, from individual projects to global impact, and the role of emerging professionals in driving the necessary transformation. Seats to attend this event are now fully allocated and no additional places are available. The Holcim Foundation will report on the discussions and outcome of the Fellowship after the event concludes.

Decarbonization at Scale

The built environment contributes to over 40% of global carbon emissions. According to the United Nations Paris Climate Agreement, these emissions must be cut in half by 2030 and eliminated entirely by 2050. Simultaneously, the built environment is expected to double due to rapid population growth and urbanization. How can we dramatically reduce carbon emissions while significantly increasing floor area at the same time? This challenge is the focus of “Decarbonization at Scale,” an intensive program that brings together thought leaders from academia and industry to envision and promote the widespread, rapid transformation of buildings and cities.

Fostering a curiosity and solutions-driven mindset

Bringing together bright students, leading professional firms, and academic and non-profit organizations, the Holcim Foundation Fellowship explores pressing challenges and discusses ways to cultivate a deep understanding of sustainable practices, foster collaborative problem-solving, and drive innovation.

Students are working with David Benjamin, a distinguished professor based in New York City, alongside other experts, to develop their conceptual positions and design skills around decarbonization of the built environment. Fellows are also visiting case study projects in New York City, meeting practicing professionals, taking part in presentations and learning about the innovative work of the three partner firms – Arup, Henning Larsen and SOM.

Architectural site visits provide deep contextualized interchange between practitioners and fellows, and will include: The Oculus, The Dryline (Big U), Parsons Healthy Materials Lab, Hunter’s Point South public development, Bloomberg Center and Cornell Campus, Governor’s Island international hub for climate solutions, High Line pedestrian connectivity, and One World Trade Center.

The Fellows will produce final projects that will be documented in a digital publication that will become a reference for future students and professionals worldwide. Upon completion of the program, selected Fellows will be chosen to take part in the next step of the journey - the Holcim Foundation Emerging ChangeMakers.