WaltGalmarini is a leading engineering firm engaged in innovative, sustainable construction methods and low-carbon materials. Through research on projects such as the Empa-Unit Step2 and the use of recycled concrete or digital planning processes, we actively contribute to reducing emissions and conserving resources.
Building for tomorrow – sustainable and responsible
Sustainability is firmly anchored in our corporate culture. We always think and act long-term and are constantly aware of our responsibility toward the environment. Therefore, we promote environmentally sound measures – from construction planning to completion and far beyond.
Cement-free materials (MANAL Pavilion)
Building materials without cement offer many environmentally friendly advantages over conventional cement. They significantly reduce CO₂ emissions, as cement is responsible for approximately 8% of global CO₂ emissions. Furthermore, cement-free materials promote the circular economy by reusing industrial waste and construction debris.
The following cement-free materials are used in our projects:
- Oulesse®: Cement-free concrete made from recycled construction debris and mineral salts with approximately 70% lower CO₂ emissions.
- Gusslehm Nossim: Liquid-processable clay with aggregate, which is cement-free and formable like concrete.
- Oxabloc clay bricks: Compressed clay blocks with clay mortar, primarily used in vaults.
- Hybrid structure: Stabilization through steel tension rods and wooden ring. The roof and floor are made from recycled materials.
- Design for Disassembly (DfD): Fully deconstructable, the components are reusable after non-destructive dismantling. Used as a research and learning project.
Timber-concrete composite slabs (HVFD)
This hybrid construction, developed by Implenia and WaltGalmarini, combines timber with concrete to utilize the respective strengths of the materials. The timber absorbs tensile forces and the concrete absorbs compressive forces. Because timber-concrete composite slabs are 35% lighter than conventional concrete slabs and save foundation concrete, they generate up to 40% fewer CO₂ emissions in the structural shell. They are prefabricated, enabling shorter construction times, high quality, and flexible floor plans.
3D-printed filigree slabs (STEP2)
Through the digitally planned use of 3D-printed formwork, delicate ribbed structures are created that enable significant material savings. Compared to conventional concrete slabs, CO₂ emissions can be reduced. The acoustic and storage boxes can be integrated directly into the ceiling structure, improving sound insulation and thermal mass. Additive manufacturing proves to be a key innovation driver for resource-efficient and sustainable construction.
Optimization through digital planning (BIM)
Digital planning not only promotes interdisciplinary collaboration but also contributes to quality assurance. Using Building Information Modeling (BIM), a central 3D model consolidates all project information and enables energy and climate simulations during the planning phase. Precise quantity determination reduces material waste and improves the circularity of building materials, allowing resources to be used more efficiently. Furthermore, life cycle assessment creates greater transparency regarding CO₂ emissions and energy consumption throughout the entire building service life.
Climate-appropriate construction
In climate-neutral construction, two perspectives are central: climate protection through CO₂ reduction and climate adaptation to strengthen resilience against heat and extreme weather. At the district level, measures such as unsealing, greening, the use of cooling materials, and the "sponge city" principle play an important role. The buildings themselves benefit from good indoor air quality, low-pollutant building materials, green roofs and facades, and the use of thermal mass. Modern technologies such as renewable energy, intelligent building systems, and efficient heating and cooling systems complement these approaches. The result: more health, comfort, and sustainability for people and the environment.
Think Earth – Regenerative construction
The "Think Earth" project at ETH Zurich is an Innosuisse-funded flagship initiative carried out together with other partners. The goal is to develop new construction methods using timber and clay materials that are climate-neutral, resource-efficient, and fully circular.
We take responsibility and help shape the future
As an engineering firm, we bear special responsibility for the built environment. Therefore, we actively engage in professional committees, research institutions, and university collaborations to transfer new findings and technologies into practice. Our goal is to make a positive contribution to society and the environment with forward-looking solutions. Through our participation in development projects, conferences, and technical publications, we promote knowledge exchange and the advancement of our discipline.
