3. Conclusions and outlook

The few applications presented in this dossier demonstrate the potential of eco-design approaches applied to buildings and neighborhoods, even if the precision and functionality of the tools could be improved. The stakes in terms of environmental preservation and industrial development justify efforts that can be partly shared through international partnerships.

The performance of a building is the result of a program drawn up by the client, the choice of site, the skills of the architect and design office, the use of appropriate technologies, the care taken by the contractors during construction, and the civic-minded behavior of the occupants. As we have seen, the building sector interacts with the building materials and components, energy and transport industries. According to some, it will not be possible to improve the existing stock, so efforts must focus on...