The Architects Climate Action Network (ACAN!) is once again coming to Futurebuild 2025, bringing an engaging and action-driven programme that highlights the diverse possibilities of climate action in the built environment.
With an emphasis on community power, natural materials, circular economy solutions, retrofit strategies, and regenerative design, ACAN! is set to inspire, educate, and provoke meaningful change.
At the heart of the ACAN! stand, visitors will experience an interactive space filled with innovative and traditional low carbon natural materials and systems, and networking opportunities. This is a place to connect with individuals and communities making a tangible difference, demonstrating that together, we can take action and create an impact.
Throughout the event, ACAN! will present an exciting schedule of talks, workshops, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities designed to inspire action at every level of the built environment. Attendees will explore pressing issues such as reuse practices, the importance of materials in environmental and societal contexts, and emerging solutions in biogenic materials and modern construction methods.
Key programme highlights include:
- Thought-provoking talks on the significance of materials, embodied carbon, lifecycle and BNG analysis, and how to approach regenerative design at small and large scales. Speakers include Duncan Baker-Brown, Nick White from Natural England, U-build founder Nick Newman, representatives from Material Index, specialists in plant-based Passivhaus and natural insulation and many more.
- Live natural material demonstrations, showcasing earth flooring with Jeffrey Hart, cob building, brick moulding, chestnut shake making, and seaweed crafting—illustrating the need for integrating traditional techniques and contemporary regenerative approaches.
- Engaging hands-on experiences, where attendees can experiment with mud alongside Global Generation, contribute to a collaborative mural, and participate in workshops covering cultural transformation, circular economy mapping, and biodiversity net gain (BNG) with inspiring facilitators such as Dian Small, Jenny Ford and ACAN Ecology.
- Community-led sessions, exploring grassroots initiatives such as launching community energy companies, retrofitting social housing, and co-designing circular economies for community-owned spaces.
- Networking and social events, including panel discussions and a lively bar takeover on Tuesday evening, offering opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals and changemakers.
On Tuesday 4th March at 4:30 pm, ACAN! will take the stage for a pivotal panel discussion on ethical and environmental decision-making in architecture. This conversation will address the frameworks guiding responsible design choices, the role of unions and industry bodies, and how individuals can leverage their influence to push for systemic change in an industry increasingly accountable to environmental and ethical standards.
The ACAN! stand is more than a showcase—it’s a call to action. It’s an open invitation for built environment professionals, designers, and engaged communities to embrace proactive climate action, make positive impacts and help shape a more sustainable future. Register here for Futurebuild 2025.
