The 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering Sciences: Experts Discuss Environmentally Sustainable Buildings
On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, experts and researchers from various institutions gathered at the 5th International Conference on Architecture and Civil Engineering Sciences in the Conference Hall at Cihan University-Erbil for the Track on Environmentally Sustainable Buildings. The session, held from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, focused on innovative approaches to sustainable architecture and urban development, featuring research on environmentally friendly construction techniques and energy-efficient building practices.
Prof. Dr. Mahmood Ahmad Khyat from Kurdistan University, Erbil, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the role of sustainable building practices in reducing environmental degradation. He highlighted the need to integrate sustainability principles into modern architectural design to mitigate urban impacts. As chair of the session, he led discussions alongside Dr. Nagham Ismail Yahya from Cihan University-Erbil, exploring innovative strategies to enhance environmental resilience in architectural planning.
The session featured several research presentations. Maysoun M. Hilal from the University of Samarra presented The Utility of Environmentally Friendly Architectural Design Techniques in Minimizing Adverse Effects on the Urban Scene. Her study examined sustainable architectural solutions that balance ecological preservation with aesthetic and functional city planning.
Dr. Kazem Fares Damad Al-Issawi from the University of Baghdad followed with his research on Sustainability of Rural Housing in the Marshes of Iraq. He analyzed challenges in marshland housing and proposed a model that integrates traditional construction techniques with modern sustainability standards. His findings emphasized preserving cultural heritage while incorporating eco-friendly materials for resilient rural development.
Another significant contribution came from Dr. Rahim Zahedi of the University of Tehran, who conducted an Environmental Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of Different Energy Supply Methods in a Residential Building from the Perspective of Emissions. His research analyzed energy consumption patterns and their environmental impact, evaluating alternative energy solutions to reduce carbon footprints in residential architecture. His findings highlighted the importance of adopting renewable energy sources to promote sustainability in urban development.
In the next presentation, Prof. Dr. Maszura Abdul Ghafar from UPM, Malaysia, introduced her study on Circular Economy Waste Management Approaches to Enhance the Local Community Environment: Cameron Highlands, Malaysia. She explored how circular economy principles could improve waste management by emphasizing sustainable reduction, reuse, and recycling strategies. Her research provided practical insights into how effective waste management benefits both the environment and local communities.
The final presentation was delivered by Dr. Bisam Ehessan A. Al-Hafiz from the University of Mosul, who examined The Role of Advanced Computer Simulation Tools in Enhancing the Environmental Resilience of Heritage Buildings: A Case Study of Mosul’s Traditional Urban Fabric Using SOLENE-Microclimate. His research demonstrated how advanced simulation technology can help preserve historic buildings while improving their environmental adaptability. Through detailed computational models, he illustrated sustainable interventions that maintain the historical and cultural integrity of architectural heritage.
The session ended with a dynamic discussion, where participants exchanged ideas on implementing sustainable building strategies in both urban and rural environments. Attendees deliberated on energy-efficient architecture, the role of digital tools in sustainable design, and the integration of circular economy principles into modern construction practices.
The Track on Environmentally Sustainable Buildings successfully brought together experts and scholars to explore practical solutions for a more sustainable architectural future. The conference reinforced the urgency of adopting eco-friendly practices to mitigate environmental challenges and enhance resilience in the built environment.
