If we look at a building constructed today, around 50 per cent of its emissions over the next 60 years will occur before it is even occupied. That’s why sustainability also involves the long-term use of these valuable resources: after all, raw materials must be extracted, and building materials or entire components must be produced, delivered and installed.

The state of Vorarlberg in Austria is committed to achieving ambitious sustainability goals – and is an important part of the history of the Zumtobel brand. This region is known across Europe for its exemplary and sustainable construction that uses ecological materials and unites modern and traditional architecture. Armed with this knowledge, and with an awareness of its responsibility for the environment and for future generations, Zumtobel has set itself the goal of creating the best light for people and architecture.

Example – by Baumschlager Eberle Architekten: The office building ‘2226’ is a manifesto for sustainable construction in Millennium Park in Lustenau. The six-storey building manages without heating, cooling or mechanical ventilation systems. Instead, architect Dietmar Eberle relies on solid walls and the air-purifying effects of limestone, large room heights and depths, high-quality materials, good air exchange and optimum use of daylight. In the evening and at night, artificial lighting compensates for the lack of daylight: it provides visual conditions in which people feel comfortable so that they can carry out their work with concentration and motivation. Lighting also plays an important role in guiding people through the building. Light lines, light points and light surfaces create a high-quality unit in terms of design and lighting technology.