Continuing Education

This programme is structured with five Modules, one week each, distributed over one semester. The Modules cover the essential knowledge on the use of earth, bio-​based, and reused building materials, from resource extraction to construction site, building operation and end-​of-use of the building materials. It provides the participants with tools and methods to manage projects using these materials with efficiency and creativity in order to contribute to the necessary ecological and social transition in the construction sector.
The programme uses new teaching practices with participative methods, experimental lectures, hands-​​on exercises, visits to inspiring projects and project-​​based learning.

Earth and bio-​based materials offer several benefits when used in building envelopes. This programme offers specialised knowledge on hygrothermal material properties and simulation tools. The program teaches participants to quantify indoor comfort improvements, energy demands reduction, forecast moisture-​related degradation risks, and to allow for durable design and long-​lasting performance. Materials such as straw bales, hemp, wood, waste from plant harvesting, or light mixes combining bio-​based materials to mineral binders, such as lime or clay, will be analysed in detail. The participants will acquire result-​oriented skills in terms of thermal efficiency and humidity regulation to contribute to the hygrothermal dimensioning of long-​lasting buildings or infrastructures.

This programme is organised for four weeks spread over one semester. Load-​bearing structures using rammed earth or other earth technics, as well as straw bales or bamboo, will be analysed in detail. The participants will acquire result-​oriented skills in terms of structural calculation. After this programme, they will have the skills to participate in the structural dimensioning of long-​lasting buildings or infrastructures.

This programme (Diplom of Advanced Studies) combines two CAS ETH in Regenerative Materials followed by a thesis corresponding to a one-month full time work. The thesis is a personal work achieved in one semester with the supervision of relevant experts promoting dynamic interaction between the participant and the teaching team of the two CAS he achieved. The subject of this work and the experts in charge of supervision are chosen after the second CAS. The thesis will be presented in front of a jury at the end of the semester.

The MOOC ETH in Regenerative Materials and Construction is a free online course available for anyone to enroll. The course is aiming to introduce the basis of regenerative sustainability in the construction domain, guiding the audience through an overview of its construction materials and techniques as earth and bio-based. We’re almost ready!