The 20th edition of the event, the first international one, announces the conference program and the first confirmed speakers. August 28–29, Constanța. These are conversations that are rarely held in the construction industry: the public beneficiary and the builder, on the same stage, about the distance between the approved project and the actual construction site. The BIM Challenge, now in its 20th edition, builds around them the conference program from August 28–29, at Ovidius University in Constanta. Landing page The BIM Challenge Conference The anniversary edition is also the first international one: over 30 speakers from 6 countries, over 100 students in the competition that gives the event its name, and a program that starts from three simple questions, with complicated answers: What data do we actually build with? Who answers when the model says one thing and the construction site says another? And what data do you need to make good decisions when the money is yours? "The BIM Challenge started as a summer school where students learned to work in Allplan. Meanwhile, the industry has changed and we have changed with it: today students work for a week in multidisciplinary teams, with architecture, structure and installations on the same model, as a real BIM process shows. And the conference emerged from the same logic: students and professionals very rarely end up in the same room. When it happens, both win. Students see how the people they will work for think. Professionals see the next generation and projects worked on for a whole week. At the 20th edition, we also opened the event to speakers and participants from all over Europe." Dan Moraru, General Manager of ALLBIM NET, the organizer of the event. Two days, two directions Friday, August 28, is the day of data and decisions. Cristian Erbașu, the president of FPSC, opens the conference with a keynote address, " We build, but with what data?" , and the rest of the day takes the question further. Public authorities, architects, engineers and builders discuss what is lost between the approved documentation and execution and what a predictable public project looks like. Investors and consultants then put on the table the question of large projects: what data matters when the stakes are real? The European perspective comes from Marzia Bolpagni, who leads the working group for information requirements in construction in the CEN and ISO committees, with case studies from markets where ISO 19650 has become the way of working. Each guest comes from a different position regarding the same issues: the builder who has seen both sides of the process, the expert who participates in writing European standards, the structural monitoring specialist for whom data quality is measured in the safety of entire structures. See the full schedule for Friday, August 28th here. On Saturday, August 29, the focus turns to those who follow. The day begins with the moment that gives the name to the entire event: multidisciplinary teams of students present their projects developed in a week of workshops, with architecture, urbanism, structure, installations and infrastructure on a single model. For the companies in the room, it is the most direct meeting with the next generation. The rest of the day takes the discussion further: who trains tomorrow's professionals, what skills do European standards require and what, concretely, artificial intelligence can do in a real workflow. See the full schedule for Saturday, August 28th here. First speakers confirmed Marzia Bolpagni , International BIM Expert. PhD in ICT and Smart Construction, expert at the European Committee for Standardization and at ISO/TC 59/SC 13, where she leads the working group for the standardization of information requirements (Level of Information Need). Co-author of the 4th edition of the BIM Handbook and Assistant Editor of the BIM Dictionary, with over 30 international awards. She will give the keynote on the application of ISO 19650 in practice. Cristian Erbașu, President of FPSC, General Manager of Erbașu Constructions and President of CAIR. He delivers the opening speech on the importance of data in public and private projects. Cătălin Andrei , Head of BIM Management, STRABAG Romania. Over 9 years of experience in building BIM processes and teams in megaprojects, from the tender phase to handover to the client. Andreea Cincă, BIM Coordinator, SCC Erbașu. A UTCB graduate engineer, with a master's degree in geotechnical engineering and seven years of experience as a designer in civil, hydro-urban and geotechnical constructions, she coordinates the digitalization of design processes within the company Self Consulting. Mariana Garștea , General Manager, Sixense Romania. President of APMGS, specialist in structural and geotechnical monitoring, with over 20 years of experience in the digital transformation of infrastructure. Bogdan Cristea , State Counselor, Presidential Administration. Architect, headed the Urban Planning Department of the Capital City Hall, where he coordinated the General Urban Plan of Bucharest and the Velo Master Plan. He brings to the conference the dual perspective of the designer and the public policy decision-maker. Horia Petran, senior scientific researcher, INCD URBAN-INCERC and coordinator of the Romanian Building Knowledge Hub. President of the Pro-nZEB Cluster, PhD in engineering and energy auditor, has been coordinating European qualification programs for the implementation of the nZEB concept in Romania since 2011. Mikko Stachl , BIM Specialist, ALLPLAN. Specialist in OpenBIM workflows, with reference projects such as Parkapartments Belvedere (designed by Renzo Piano) and the WIEN MUSEUM. Teaches BIM at two universities in Vienna. Claudiu Salanță, Chief Architect, Cluj County Council. President of the Association of Chief County Architects, involved in protecting built heritage and digitizing public administration. Rodica Lupu, General Manager, Cluster TEC. Founder and CEO of Loop Operations, expert in innovation management and financing, with over 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship and public policies. Coordinates, in partnership with the National Agency for Public Procurement, the INSIDE project, through which public authorities in each county learn how to define the requirements for digital and sustainable investments. Irina Odor , Commercial Director, CELCO. Almost two decades in the company, she coordinates sales and marketing, the link between production and customers. Michael Havran , Channel Account Manager, Bluebeam. Over a decade of experience in digitizing design and construction processes in Central and Eastern Europe. See the complete and updated list of speakers here → Tickets and additional information Tickets for The BIM Challenge 2026 are available on the website . About The BIM Challenge The BIM Challenge is the reference event dedicated to Building Information Modeling in Romania, reaching its 20th edition in 2026, the first with international participation. Over the years, it has brought together thousands of students, academics, professionals and companies from the AEC industry. The 2026 edition brings to Constanța a week of practical workshops for students (August 24–29) and an international conference for professionals and decision-makers (August 28–29). The event is organized by ALLBIM NET , a company that has been working with architects, engineers and construction companies in Romania and the Republic of Moldova since 1992. Beyond software solutions, ALLBIM NET offers consulting, implementation and training for BIM processes, collaborates with universities and professional associations across the country and organizes events that have become landmarks for the industry, including The BIM Challenge and InfraDays . See the complete and updated list of partners here → Press accreditations Journalists and media representatives interested in attending the conference are invited to contact the ALLBIM NET communications team for accreditation at marketing@allbim.net .

The first factsheet published under the European REN+HOMES project highlights why resident engagement is just as important as technological innovation in achieving high-performing buildings. When discussing sustainable buildings, the conversation often focuses on heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, smart systems or advanced construction materials. All of these are essential. Yet there is one element without which even the most advanced building cannot reach its full potential: the people who use it every day. With this in mind, the European REN+HOMES project has published its first factsheet, Resident-centred methodology for developing positive energy residential buildings. The publication presents a practical methodology that places residents at the heart of building performance, recognising them as active partners in achieving energy efficiency. From users to active partners High-performance technologies alone do not automatically deliver energy savings or improved comfort. The way residents understand and interact with building systems has a direct impact on how efficiently those systems perform. The methodology developed within REN+HOMES adopts a resident-centred approach built on dialogue, collaboration and real-life testing. Rather than being passive recipients of technological solutions, residents are actively involved in a learning process that helps shape behaviours supporting the optimal operation of the building. How does the methodology work? The factsheet outlines a structured process that includes: assessing residents' knowledge, awareness and everyday practices; organising participatory workshops to identify solutions tailored to each community; testing new energy-related behaviours in real-life settings; evaluating outcomes and exchanging lessons learned across the four demonstration sites in Austria, Spain, Estonia and Romania. Rather than promoting behavioural change through prescriptive rules, the methodology focuses on building trust between residents and the technologies designed to improve building performance. A model that can be replicated Early findings demonstrate that actively engaging residents leads to a better understanding of building systems, greater confidence in using them and improved alignment between the building's designed and actual energy performance. At the same time, the methodology provides developers, building managers and public authorities with a practical framework that can be replicated in both new developments and renovation projects. About REN+HOMES Funded by the Horizon Europe programme, REN+HOMES develops innovative solutions and methodologies that support the transition towards low-energy, low-carbon residential buildings. These solutions are being validated across four demonstration buildings in Austria, Spain, Estonia and Romania, with the Romania Green Building Council (RoGBC) contributing as a member of the international project consortium. The project's first factsheet, Resident-centred methodology for developing positive energy residential buildings, is now available for free consultation and download.

Lucian Azoiței, founder of 40ty Management, explains why sustainability is not a trend, but the only real estate strategy that makes sense in the long term. With 25 years of experience in the real estate market, 19 sustainability awards, and projects worth over €652 million, 40ty Management is one of the few developers in Romania that invested in green building before it became a trend. We spoke with Lucian Azoiței about money, buildings, climate, and why Romanians are, surprisingly, among the most prepared buyers of green homes in Europe. Ecomagazin:   You entered the real estate development sector in 2006 and decided from the very beginning to focus exclusively on green projects. What did the landscape look like at that time, and what convinced you it was the right path? Lucian Azoiței: We have been active in the real estate market for over 25 years and have remained closely connected to the realities of this market in Romania—an extremely atypical market, where over 96% of the population owns their home. When we decided to move into development, we conducted an extensive market study. What we found was surprising: among the top three criteria for choosing a home, green and sustainable development had already emerged. This came as a significant surprise, especially given that the level of services at the time was fairly limited. We asked ourselves why. The answer, which we came to understand gradually, was that in the mind of the Romanian buyer, green construction was associated with a guarantee of quality. And this perception has remained valid to this day. That is why we decided, from that moment on, to develop exclusively green projects. Over time, standards have increased—both on our side and on the clients’ side. 19 sustainability awards, €652 million invested. How do you respond to those who say that going green means higher costs and lower profitability? L.A.:  Our experience has shown that green, sustainable development does not affect profitability. A real estate project is an extremely complex product, combining technical, aesthetic, and perceptual elements—and sometimes even short-term trends. An experienced developer must know how to balance all of these, while delivering a product that remains attractive for many years and viable even over a hundred years—the typical lifespan of a building. Sustainability is not an optional feature that increases costs. It is the foundation of a good product with a future. Are there green loans available in Romania for developers—financial instruments that reward this choice? L.A.:  Unfortunately, no—and this is a sensitive issue. While there are green loans available for end clients—homebuyers—who benefit from certain advantages, developers are not treated differently based on the sustainability of their projects. This is regrettable, especially since green financing lines exist in Europe and significantly reduce long-term costs. Moreover, a green real estate product has a much higher chance of remaining relevant over time—which translates into clients, sales, and liquidity. This should reduce risk for financial institutions, not be overlooked. We hope this reality will change. You have also developed projects in Spain, Hungary, and Italy. How does Romania compare to these markets in terms of appetite for green buildings? L.A.:  I can say, based on direct experience, that Romania is more advanced in this regard than many other countries. And this is not just empty patriotic rhetoric—it is a market reality. As a relatively young market, Romania has adopted the latest technologies and standards, clients are well-informed, cost pressure is high, and legislation requires a very high level of construction quality. Building green has essentially become the standard in Romania. It’s a significant leap compared to 20 years ago. By contrast, in Spain, Hungary, or Italy—where we are currently developing—the impact of sustainability is not as strong in the purchasing decision. As a result, financial institutions in those countries make a clearer distinction when it comes to financing—because the supply of truly green buildings is lower, and therefore more valuable. You have three new projects worth €360 million—in Seville, Budapest, and Milan. What is “Lagoon City”? L.A.:  Lagoon City is our flagship concept, representing 20 years of evolution in green real estate development. We have reached the highest possible standard: carbon-neutral and self-sustainable—meaning a building that not only does not pollute, but also sustains itself. We are implementing this concept in Seville, Budapest, and Milan because these are markets where the supply of such projects is more limited, and our vision brings something new. The standards we have integrated into the design also give us a higher chance of success in international certifications such as BREEAM, LEED, and WELL. One final, more personal question: after 25 years in real estate, which building or place in Romania have you felt most proud to have developed? L.A.:  Every project carries something of us. But what brings me the greatest satisfaction is seeing people live well in what we have built—that a child is playing in the green courtyard of a building we developed, that someone opens their window in the morning and breathes clean air because we designed the ventilation properly. That is what durability truly means. Not the award, not the return—but a person feeling happy in their own home. 40ty Management is a real estate developer with a 100% Green Homes certified portfolio, with projects in Romania, Spain, Hungary, and Italy.

Green Building Council Romania develops and implements the national green building standards and certification system, facilitates the availability of the most up-to-date and highest quality training to create the necessary pool of national green building experts; supports the development of best in class in-country green construction. ABOUT US The Romania Green Building Council We are a non-profit, apolitical association comprised of organizations active throughout the country. We promote environmental responsibility and energy efficiency throughout the entire life cycle of a building (from design and construction to operation and deconstruction). BACKGROUND The founding companies created the Romania Green Building Council in recognition of the following trends: Advanced technologies and designs, along with new thinking in energy efficiency financing. Growing exposure of eco-friendly buildings in the business sector, demonstrating that green architecture equates to smart business practices. Visionary companies’ interest in developing skills for excellence in construction and related industries, generating sustained profits. Projected local and global economic growth involving resource constraints and rising operational and construction costs. Environmental concerns and the political and social will to mitigate these issues. Need to enhance collaboration between industries, government, and civil society to eliminate barriers and align interests, ensuring rapid and comprehensive adoption of sustainable construction principles. Significant contribution of healthy, affordable, and energy-efficient housing to national wealth and security. Increased productivity, innovations, and other financial benefits from sustainable office and industrial space design. Appeal of eco-friendly design in shopping centers for both shoppers and owners. OBJECTIVES To promote market transformation and the implementation of a new generation of green buildings, the Romania Green Building Council: Facilitates access to cutting-edge training programs to create a national group of experts in the field. Supports the development of appropriate legislative measures to promote sustainable construction and ensure attractive return rates. Develops and implements a national system of standards and certifications for green buildings. Encourages the green construction industry to position Romania as a leader in sustainable building. Builds a complex organization by facilitating collaboration among market players to eliminate systemic barriers and promote a truly sustainable built environment. Promotes national, regional, and international collaboration to share knowledge and foster innovation. Researches, analyzes, and disseminates best practices for the region and encourages their adoption and implementation. Planul de Egalitate de Gen Construim echilibrul BOARD OF DIRECTORS Andrei Botiș President Elena Rastei Vice - President Dorin Beu Treasurer Daniel Butucel Secretary Oana Cojocaru Member FOUNDER AND ADVISOR Steven Borncamp RoGBC Founder & Advisor BOARD OF DIRECTORS Hanane El Hayek Chairman Director Development W. Europe, GBCI Ph.D. Dr. B.Eng. Technical University of Cluj Napoca Eng. Sebastiano Cristoforetti CRISCON Ph.D. Dr. B.Eng. Technical University of Cluj Napoca Ph.D. Dr. B.Eng. Dorin Beu Technical University of Cluj Napoca Ph.D. Dr. B.Eng. Technical University of Cluj Napoca Our mission We want to transform the construction sector in Romania into a more sustainable one with a lower impact on the environment through environmental projects and policies that support sustainable and economically feasible development. Our vision A world in which care for the environment is the main factor according to which new constructions are designed and existing ones are operated

From Green Building Professional training to conferences, webinars, roundtables, see below the list of all our upcoming events of Romania Green Building Council. EVENTS August 2026 Astăzi Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 27 28 29 30 31 12:00 PM Green Café 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Day (1/2) The BIM Challenge 2026 29 Day (2/2) The BIM Challenge 2026 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6 Sign up for Training & Certification Program Green Building Professional DETAILS

SMARTER Finance for Families is a Horizon 2020 project to implement ambitious yet practical Green Homes & Green Mortgage programs in Romania and other 11 European countries. SMARTER Finance For Families Improving the well-being of European citizens by providing opportunities for the financial and construction sectors to create green housing. Green financing is an important and developing trend aimed at increasing investment in environmentally and socially responsible projects while reducing the financial risk associated with loans for these projects. This concept creates a huge opportunity to positively transform the health and environmental performance, quality, comfort, and financial viability of new and existing homes in Europe. SMARTER Finance for Families is a European Horizon 2020 project that aims to implement a series of ambitious and practical Green Homes & Green Mortgage programs in 12 European countries, with the participation and collaboration of 17 experts in green building, sustainable energy, research, and other organizations. Organizations from Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Georgia, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Turkey, and Ukraine are participating in this complex project. The project uses comprehensive certifications for Green Homes to evaluate and recognize top-performing residential projects that incorporate sustainable construction principles. Evidence from financial and technical modeling has shown that investments in energy efficiency and other green building attributes for homes: Improves the quality of housing Reduces the total monthly cost of ownership for the homeowner Helps increase sales prices for the project developer/investor Substantially reduce the financial risk for the financial institution offering the mortgage The existing program includes over 44 projects, representing 10,000 certified or in-process housing units. “Through the SMARTER Finance for Families project, we bring an innovative and systemic solution to a systemic problem. We are creating significant opportunities for the financial sector and construction to deliver the green performance we need for Europe's citizens and their homes." - Steven Borncamp, Project Director, SMARTER RELEVANT STAKEHOLDERS In addition to improving the lives of citizens, the program addresses the needs of residential project developers, financial institutions that offer residential mortgages, institutional investors, and companies that provide services, products, materials, technologies, and other solutions that contribute to the construction and proper functioning of the greenest and high-performance residential projects. Representatives of national and local governments and associations promoting environmental, energy efficiency, and/or better housing are invited to learn more about how this program facilitates the improvement of building standards. This is relevant both for those in the participating countries and for those interested in learning about bringing this initiative to their internal market. Partners You can find more details about the program by accessing the dedicated website. DETAILS