Climate change and species extinction are the two biggest global challenges. Most of the emissions that have an impact on the climate and are harmful to health are produced in the disproportionately growing settlement areas, where they also affect the largest proportion of the population. Climate change and the urban building structure are also increasing the number and intensity of hot days and dry periods. Despite the lack of space, more green areas need to be created as they have a positive impact on subjective well-being and objective health and also reduce the crime rate. The space available in cities is often insufficient for subsequent tree planting. The solution to this problem, which has been underutilised to date, is green roofs and green façades. Both have an inward effect on the building as well as on the urban space.
The temperature is lowered in summer and the humidity is increased. In winter, the heat inside the house is retained. Trees in narrow streets filter the air, but at the same time the dense canopy prevents the exchange of air masses. This can lead to a concentration of air pollutants and pollen under the canopy. Green façades, on the other hand, do not hinder the exchange of air masses. In this respect, it is even functionally superior to urban trees. A detailed description can be found in the joint agreement.
The aim of the overall network is to develop a "circular, living building envelope" (Circular Ecological Envelope (CEE)), consisting of a wooden supporting structure and plant growth and integrated nesting aids for insects, birds and bats.
In addition to the IBHolz:
Within the overall project, the IBHolz of the TU Braunschweig is working together with the Fraunhofer WKI:
The working hypotheses relating to the TU Braunschweig sub-project are as follows:
The plant growth (HAWK - Göttingen) as part of the living building envelope has an influence on the timber supporting structure and on the existing building structure. This influence is such that
a. the wood species Robine and sweet chestnut, as well as the wood-based materials made from them, are durable without additional chemical protective measures, but in combination with the structural design (HAWK-Hildesheim). The absence of additional chemical protective measures is an essential cornerstone for circularity.
b. the use of the living building envelope is equivalent to a thermal refurbishment of the existing building structure.
The truth of these two hypotheses must be investigated within the project.
Duration of the project:
From 1.9.2025 to 31.8.2028
This project is funded by the European Social Fund Plus / European Regional Development Fund.