Paper 1: A Systems Perspective on the Interactions Between Urban Green Infrastructure and the Built Environment

Authors: R Reitberger, N Pattnaik, L Parhizgar, C Trost, H Yazdi, M A Rahman, S Pauleit, T Roetzer, H Pretzsch, C Traidl-Hoffmann, F Ludwig, A Reischl, M P Plaza Garcia and W Lang

https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1363/1/012071

This paper examines the complex dynamics between urban green infrastructure and the built environment. It was developed by the DFG-funded Research Training Group “Urban Green Infrastructure”. The research highlights the interrelationships between urban heat islands, the energy demand of buildings, and human health. Using the Socio-Ecological-Technological Systems (SETS) framework, key factors and their interactions at the urban level were identified. A qualitative causal-loop diagram was created and evaluated using literature and expert workshops. The results highlight the importance of urban form and green infrastructure in assessing interactions in urban space. The paper emphasizes the value of iterative modeling and serves as a basis for further systemic approaches.

Paper 2: Multi-criteria decision making for timber constructions: analysis of ceiling types using utility analysis

Authors: K Theilig, D Merk, T Blömer, W Lang, S Winter and S Birk

https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1363/1/012096

This paper investigates the significance of timber construction methods in the context of global decarbonization strategies. Fourteen timber construction methods for office ceilings were compared with a conventional reinforced concrete ceiling. A utility analysis was carried out, considering thirteen criteria that include ecological and structural aspects such as resource use, climate protection, building physics, and structural considerations. The results show that a ribbed slab structure with a wet screed is particularly recommended for office ceilings if vibration behavior and environmental aspects are prioritized. Solid timber and linear-shaped ceilings perform better in terms of structural design and building physics than composite timber-concrete or reinforced concrete ceilings. The paper emphasizes the importance of multi-criteria approaches, sensitivity analyses, and the transparent documentation of the decision-making process.

We are proud of the recognition of this important work and thank all those involved for their valuable contributions to research in the field of sustainable construction. These awards underline the excellent research work of our chair and motivate us to continue to develop innovative and practical solutions to the challenges in the built environment.