Industry joins forces to launch Built Environment Virtual Pavilion for COP26

CIAT is part of a coalition of built environment organisations supporting the delivery of a Built Environment Virtual Pavilion, ahead of the UN's COP26 Climate Summit in November.

The Virtual Pavilion will comprise an exhibition of global exemplar projects and places, within a bespoke virtual reality (VR) space, as well as a major series of events and downloadable content – to include keynotes, panel discussions and more. Partners will shortly launch an open call for a creative and innovative virtual centrepiece for the Pavilion, with a detailed brief expected to be formally announced within the next few weeks.

At least 30 ‘Delivery Partners’, including CIAT, are working together to support the initiative, consisting of non-profits, trade bodies, government agencies and professional institutions from across the built environment.

Julie Hirigoyen, Chief Executive at UKGBC, said: “The eyes of the world will be on COP26, for what must be a key milestone moment – a historic turning point in our battle against climate change. It is an opportunity for nations, cities, businesses and civil society to demonstrate that the Paris Agreement is effective, momentum is unstoppable and – perhaps above all else – we are moving from targets to action.

“The built environment is fundamental to many of the themes of COP26. It has a critical role to play in mitigating climate change, responsible for 39% of energy related CO2 emissions and is central to building resilience against climatic extremes too late to avoid, through nature-based solutions. It is key, also, to the aspiration of building back better after COVID.

“I’m delighted that the built environment sector is coming together to work in an unprecedented collaboration, for what promises to be a truly unique virtual experience. This will enable widespread access and engagement with built environment issues at COP26 that will complement whatever activities are able to happen in person, and provide an online legacy that will last far beyond November.”

To find out more about the Virtual Pavilion and CIAT's role check out UKGBC’s website here.