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The conference programme (enclosure 1) was prepared to stimulate attendance of students and professionals related to the built environment field, and to advance in bridging the gap between theory and practice. In this sense, sessions are structured in three main streams:

i. Policy, economy and education
ii. Assessment of impact, buildings and materials
iii. Case studies from the region

The list of topics suggested for discussion on a panel session on closing, last day of Conference, was published before the event. Organisers invited prominent experts and ask them to express their point of views on specified topics.

Summary of the State of the art of Sustainable Buildings in the region

• Sustainable buildings - the new idea, many different definitions and understandings, even among the professionals. Still existing confusion between rational and sustainable approach;
• Construction sector overtaken by material and product approach, buildings are mainly treated as the end products;
• Problems of old infrastructure and concrete prefabricated buildings seem to be general;
• In general: region is oriented towards energy performance, regarding LCA, LCC, materials and water, this is strengthen by new European legislation as Directives on Construction Products and on Energy Performance of Buildings
• Financing is seen as a major problem, however many measures could be introduced as economically efficient;
• For CEEC countries fast connecting to European existing NGOs and networks can be very fruitful, to create more pressure and opportunities at all levels, but need the international support, at least for justification;
• Very few positive case studies, mostly presence of 'Global Architecture' which can be build anywhere and follows the trends of fashions;
• There is an overall expectation for national / governmental actions and programs supporting introduction of sustainability issues in buildings. Very few down-upward initiatives
  
  

• Develop a national/regional SB organization;
• Develop different forms of specialized SB expertise in the university and research centers of the region;
• Share regional SB data and information;
• Introduce SB ideas in schools;
• Undertake regional SB training courses;
• Apply emissions trading to the building sector;
• Undertake demonstration projects, esp. schools;
• Develop a regional building SB rating system.