The DECORATOR Critical Thinking Symposium, held at the University of Nova Gorica, offered a comprehensive and thought-provoking exploration of the future of the construction industry, with a special focus on sustainability. One of the most anticipated highlights of the event was the lecture delivered by Dusan Milutinovic, CEO of Acetra, on the subject of “The Sustainability of Construction in Mass Timber Design.” This lecture was a key component of the broader DECORATOR project, which aims to shape the future of sustainable construction practices.
The lecture centered on the transformative potential of the circular economy in reshaping the construction sector. With a focus on sustainable building practices, Dušan explored how the integration of circularity into construction processes can dramatically reduce environmental impacts. A core aspect of the lecture was the emphasis on the reusability of materials—replacing traditional linear construction models with approaches that prioritize resources, waste reduction, and material repurposing.
In particular, Milutinovic highlighted the importance of considering the entire construction cycle, from resource extraction through to end-of-life disposal. He urged participants to adopt a view that integrates environmental, technological, and economic factors, pointing out that sustainable construction is not simply about using greener materials but also rethinking how buildings are designed, constructed, and deconstructed. The integration of advanced technologies, he noted, plays a critical role in making such a vision a reality, ensuring that innovation supports sustainability throughout the entire process.
The symposium brought together experts from technology, business, and policymaking, all focused on tackling the challenges of creating a sustainable future in construction. Academic partners from the University of Belgrade’s Faculty of Forestry also contributed, exploring the “gaps of circularity” in construction. Milutinovic highlighted these gaps as areas where new business models could promote circular practices in the industry.
Overall, the symposium provided valuable insights into how the construction industry can evolve to meet the demands of sustainability, with a particular focus on how circular economy principles can be applied to mass timber design. The event underscored the growing importance of collaboration across sectors and disciplines to achieve a future where the built environment contributes positively to the planet’s long-term health and sustainability.
DECORATOR Critical Thinking Symposium, 2024, Nova Gorica, Slovenia
