As part of the United Nations University’s 50th anniversary, the House of No Waste competition was launched, garnering an impressive global response, receiving 927 applications from 1,005 authors across 112 countries and regions. The submissions encompassed a wide range of concepts, including building designs, urban planning strategies, construction technologies, material systems, and products related to the built environment. The diversity and quality of the proposals highlight a growing global commitment to reimagining the built environment amid ongoing climate and resource crises.
An international jury of leading experts in architecture, engineering, and sustainability selected the winning projects. In April 2026, they awarded three main prizes and four acknowledgement prizes to exceptional projects that exemplify environmental responsibility, circular economy principles, and community engagement.
Following the Award Ceremony, UNU-FLORES launched an online exhibition featuring the awarded projects and other inspiring submissions. An offline exhibition will be open to the public at the Foyer of Kulturpalast Dresden from 2 - 11 July. During this time, guests can explore a wide range of innovative solutions, including modular construction systems, buildings designed for disassembly and reuse, the integration of renewable and reclaimed materials, and multifunctional spaces that adapt to evolving social and environmental needs. Together, the exhibition illustrates how circular public infrastructure can minimise environmental impact while enhancing social value and economic efficiency.
