New buildings should be built in such a way that they are still energetically and ecologically feasible in 2050. Furthermore experts have to check the building stock in regard to the necessity of high-quality renovation or complete reconstruction. The setup of façades in respect to design layout and construction play a major role in high-quality renovation processes. Furthermore the energy and CO2 emissions saving potential of facades and windows of the building stock is enormous. The current issue of “nachhaltige technologien” deals with this interesting issue.

On the one hand sustainable façade systems are described in different fields of application and on the other hand possibilities of creating additional benefit via façade systems are shown. Multifunctional façade elements that are being developed will reveal their economic advantages compared to conventional wall insulation systems.

Concerning research and development activities in this sector Austria could take a lead role in Europe.