WEBINAR - Introduction to LCA of membrane architecture

Following the success of this first webinar, TensiNet has started to develop a full programme of webinars that could take place monthly around lunchtime (GMT +1).

Membrane Architecture – Life Cycle Assessment – Environmental Impacts

Organised by TensiNet and the Working Group Sustainability & Comfort (coordinator Carol Monticelli - Politecnico di Milano / Marijke Mollaert VUB)

Programme

13.00 – 13:05 Opening and Welcoming - Chair: Marijke Mollaert (VUB and Tensinet)

13.05 – 13.20 What is the Life Cycle Assessment? And what does it mean in Membrane Architecture Field? -  Carol Monticelli (Polimi – Dept. DABC – Textiles Hub - LCTeams)

13.20 – 13.35 Environmental Product Declarations in Tensile Architecture: Available Datasets and Environmental Impact based on Global Warming Potential -  Zehra Eryuruk (VUB – Dept. Mechanics of Materials and Constructions)

13.35 – 13.55 Q&A - Katja Bernert

13.55 – 14.00 Closure of the meeting - Marijke Mollaert

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a scientific methodology used to evaluate the environmental impacts of a product or system throughout its entire life cycle, from raw material extraction to end-of-life. In membrane architecture, LCA helps designers and engineers assess and reduce the environmental footprint of lightweight building solutions such as technical textiles and foils.

Compared to traditional construction materials, membrane and foil structures require significantly less material, thanks to their ability to work efficiently in tension. However, their fossil-fuel origin and their thermal, optical, and acoustic performance require careful environmental evaluation during the design phase. LCA makes it possible to identify both advantages and limitations of membrane materials, while tools such as Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) support informed decision-making and promote more sustainable membrane architecture.

Join the TensiNet FREE WEBINAR “Membrane Architecture – Life Cycle Assessment – Environmental Impacts” on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 13:00 to 14:00 CET. The webinar will introduce LCA principles, their application to membrane structures, and present the currently available Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for membrane materials and systems. Please find the link to add your name on this list. Registration to participate in the webinar is a two-step process.