The INTERMAT chronicles: the building and civil engineering sector mobilises to build a better tomorrow

In collaboration with :

Each issue will address what we call the pillars of the 2024 edition of INTERMAT: innovation, energy, new equations and CSR commitments. Between the exhibition and the industry, you will discover the synergies planned to address in depth and with experts, some of whom are international, the issues linked to these different pillars.

Here is a selection of events planned as part of the show around these pillars:

INNOVATION

Innovating to find answers to the challenges facing the construction industry, and society as a whole, is the DNA of the construction industry.

The building and public works sector is undergoing a veritable revolution thanks to technological innovations and new construction practices. Decarbonising materials and site equipment, reducing noise pollution, improving project quality, enhancing working conditions and optimising processes through lean construction and BIM digital mock-ups are all areas of development for contractors in the sector. Much like they have always done, they are constantly seeking to reinvent themselves by working hand in hand with equipment manufacturers and adapting to the specific needs of each project.

ENERGIES

Incorporating high-performance alternative energy sources to support our economy is the shared goal of the construction industry.

Equipment and machinery account for around 20% of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of a construction project. At a time when construction companies are looking to reduce their carbon footprint, it thus appears essential to find alternatives to combustion engines. This is good news, since these are developing rapidly. But the choice between electric, biofuel or hydrogen engines can be a complex one for professionals, especially as uncertainties over government policies are making the situation more complicated still. This is why a collective approach and a long-term vision are needed to tackle the issue of powertrain energy sources for construction machinery and equipment.

NEW EQUATIONS

Highlighting the industry’s initiatives to promote jobs in building and public works is our priority.

The construction sector is facing a major challenge: attracting and retaining talent. Faced with a shortage of labour and increased competition between sectors, it must double down to promote its job disciplines and encourage the younger generation to take an interest in them. To do this, it is vital to make the sector's professions more attractive, by highlighting the exciting aspects of the ecological transition and the opportunities it offers. Technological developments such as digitalisation and robotisation, by improving ergonomics and working conditions, can also contribute to giving the industry a positive and innovative image.

CSR

Reaching net zero to contribute to protecting our planet is our ambition.

At a time when the path to net zero has become a major and unifying issue for the entire construction industry, Comexposium has made a commitment, through its CSR strategy, to rethinking the organisation of INTERMAT in terms of its offerings and format, based on an eco-responsible approach.

This first opus looks at the key issues facing the industry through the testimonies given at an exceptional round table on 20 April 2023 attended by its main representatives: