World Green Building Week (WGBW) 2025 was nothing short of extraordinary for Ireland. This year, the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) hosted 17 events across the country, making us the most active Green Building Council worldwide. From site tours and panel discussions to workshops and networking evenings, it was a week filled with energy, innovation, and collaboration.
The outstanding participation and strong attendance across all events highlighted the growing momentum for a sustainable built environment in Ireland.
Major Highlights
🏠 Cairn Homes – Showcasing Sustainable Communities
Cairn Homes opened the doors of their latest development, giving attendees a unique opportunity to see how sustainability is being embedded at community scale. The tour highlighted energy-efficient design, biodiversity integration, and practical solutions that bring low-carbon living to life.
🏢 Hibernia – The Observatory: A Showcase of Sustainable Refurbishment
Hibernia opened the doors of The Observatory for a guided tour that highlighted how ambitious refurbishment can transform existing buildings into modern, energy-efficient workplaces. The project demonstrated the power of deep retrofit and adaptive reuse in reducing carbon emissions while creating vibrant, future-proof spaces in Dublin’s docklands. Attendees gained insight into the practical challenges and solutions behind sustainable refurbishment — an inspiring example of how the sector can decarbonise existing stock.
🌳 Park Developments – Clay Farm EcoPark & Glencairn Woodland Park
One of the week’s standout tours was at Clay Farm EcoPark, where attendees explored how urban development can work hand in hand with nature. From restored woodlands to accessible green spaces, the site demonstrated the role of developers in delivering biodiversity-positive projects.
🏢 Wilton Park – Making Impact
In collaboration with IPUT Real Estate, IGBC hosted a guided tour of Wilton Park. The project is redefining urban regeneration by blending sustainability, culture, and community in the heart of Dublin. Attendees heard first-hand about the bold vision behind the transformation of this historic quarter.
🛒 Lidl Net Zero Energy Supermarket – Behind the Scenes
One of the most anticipated tours of the week was Lidl’s Net Zero Energy Supermarket in Maynooth- Ireland’s first of its kind. Attendees got a behind-the-scenes look at the renewable energy systems, cutting-edge building technologies, and community-focused design that make this a lighthouse project for sustainable retail in Europe.
🌍 Launch of the Carbon in the Built Environment Community of Practice (CoP)
IGBC proudly launched its new CoP to bring together professionals committed to addressing embodied carbon across the sector. The session provided a platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration, setting the stage for industry-wide action on one of the most pressing challenges in achieving net zero.
📈 Building a Zero Carbon Ireland – IGBC Industry Insights & Actions
Our annual industry update was another key highlight of the week. Experts and members gathered to review Ireland’s progress on decarbonisation, share practical insights, and discuss how the sector can accelerate towards net zero. The session reaffirmed the importance of collective action and collaboration. Read the report.
Other Notable Events
Alongside these major highlights, WGBW 2025 featured a diverse line-up of events:
- Innovative Webinars – including the ACEI’s discussion on circularity and South East Energy Agency’s insights into retrofitting for energy efficiency.
- Technical Showcases – KORE Retrofit’s EnerPhit home upgrade gave attendees a live demonstration of how older homes can be transformed into healthier, low-energy spaces.
- Networking & Collaboration – from RKD’s panel breakfast on the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive to Autex Acoustics’ closing evening of cocktails and conversations, members and partners had plenty of opportunities to connect and share ideas.
Ireland Tops the World Map
What makes this year remarkable is not just the number of events, but the collective impact. With 17 events across five days, Ireland delivered more than any other Green Building Council in Europe, a powerful statement of our members’ commitment to leading the transition towards a greener, healthier built environment.
The strong turnout and engagement show that the conversation is not only growing but also turning into tangible action.
Looking Ahead
World Green Building Week 2025 has set a new benchmark for IGBC and its members. From pioneering tours to thought-provoking discussions, the week demonstrated the innovation, creativity, and determination driving Ireland’s building sector forward.
As we reflect on this success, one thing is clear: Ireland is not just participating in the green building movement — we are leading it.
A Heartfelt Thank You
This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and support of our members and partners. Each of the events showcased the strength of Ireland’s green building community and the shared vision we hold for a more sustainable future.
To everyone who hosted, presented, attended, or contributed in any way — thank you for making World Green Building Week 2025 a true success. Together, we are driving meaningful change in Ireland’s built environment.
