Sika promotes sustainable construction at ETH

(CONNECT) Sika is participating in the ETH Living Lab HIL as a funding partner in the three project phases Exploration (2026), Synthesis (2027) and Transfer (2028), according to its press release. The renovation, energy upgrade and extension of the teaching and research building for architecture and civil engineering (HIL) on the Hönggerberg campus is being prepared in these stages. The major project should be completed by 2035.

According to the ETH, the need for renovation and the changed space requirements clearly argued in favor of a core renovation with dismantling down to the supporting structure. Instead, the university wants to be more careful with its inventory and focus on CO2 reduction, digitalization and the circular economy. It is developing the construction project internally, with knowledge and findings from its own teaching and research and with industry partners.

In this "globally unique lighthouse project", according to Sika, the Baar-based specialty chemicals company for construction and industry is not only providing financial support. The promotion of the project also includes an active and close technical exchange between Sika and the ETH project teams. It is carried out via the ETH Foundation.

Sika wants to contribute to "driving the transformation towards sustainable construction methods", according to its Head of Innovation and Sustainability Patricia Heidtman. "The Living Lab HIL offers a unique platform that actively combines research and practice and noticeably accelerates innovation."

Industry and science must work together to achieve the climate targets, says Mathias Kohler, ETH Professor of Architecture and Digital Fabrication. "In cooperation with Sika, we are testing new solutions in the Living Lab HIL, which will be implemented in the renovation phase of the ETH building from 2030." ce/mm