Building with Biology: Bio-Based Materials for Retrofit & New Build

Bio-based construction materials are fast becoming a key part of the solution. Countries like France, through its RE2020 policy, now require 50% bio-based content in new buildings. In the US, the BioPreferred Program directs 70% of its spend towards construction. The UK must act now to stay competitive and climate-aligned.

Pioneer Group, in collaboration with the Biorenewables Development Centre, invites you to explore the role of bio-based materials in retrofits and new builds. This event brings together innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders to spotlight emerging technologies, discuss policy pathways, and identify high-potential materials that can help shape a low-carbon construction future.

Building on insights from our 2024 event “The Environmental and Economic Benefit of Bio-Based Construction Materials”, we’ll work to define clear targets and drive momentum for meaningful change.

Agenda

10:00 Arrival

10:30 Welcome Jen Vanderhoven, Pioneer

10:40 Keynote: Future foundations – Building with biology TBC

11:00 Presentation: New build bio-based materials Inventory Sam Patterson, Atelier Ten

11:15 Presentation: Retrofitting with bio-based materials Alex Sparrow, Hempcrete

11:45 Presentation: Technology Readiness of bio-based construction materials Mark Corbett, Biorenewables Development Centre

12:00 Case Study: Unyte Group – Retrofit Solutions Jamie Bartely, Unyte Group

12:15 Lunch

13:00 Workshop: What are the high potential bio-based materials and how to scale them

14:00 Coffee

14:15 Workshop: Targets for Bio-based materials into Policy Change

15:15 Summary of day

15:30 Close