Make housing construction a driver of growth

The number might seem intimidating: Breaking down the demand stated in the coalition agreement for 400,000 new apartments each year, a new apartment would need to be built every 80 seconds – the reality, as we know, looks quite different. To ensure this goal is no longer just wishful thinking, the initiative “Neues Bauen – 80 Sekunden” is taking action. It brings together industry leaders from the construction and real estate sectors to create more housing and stimulate growth. As industry partners, SAINT-GOBAIN ISOVER and SAINT-GOBAIN RIGIPS are now supporting “Neues Bauen.” Danijel Lučić, Head of Sales and Marketing at ISOVER and Managing Director of Sales and Marketing at RIGIPS, emphasized the importance of residential construction for the entire industry during the major summit organized by “Neues Bauen” in Berlin. A positive attitude is essential for a successful turnaround in this economically and socially significant construction segment among all stakeholders in business, planning, and politics.

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As industry partners, SAINT-GOBAIN ISOVER and SAINT-GOBAIN RIGIPS support the initiative “Neues Bauen – 80 Sekunden.” It brings together industry leaders from the construction and real estate sectors to create more housing and drive growth.

On 24 and 25 June 2025, around 1,100 guests from the construction industry, including project developers, architects, investors, construction and general contractors, manufacturers, start-ups and scientists, gathered in Berlin for the “Summit Neues Bauen” with high-ranking politicians. Together, they discussed how the ambitious housing goals of the federal government could be promptly achieved. The results of the expert task force “Growth Initiative Housing Construction,” led by Prof. Dr. Bert Rürup, illustrate that building 400,000 apartments a year would be a huge challenge, but would also create significant opportunities: building 50,000 rental apartments could lead to GDP growth of up to 0.5 percent and generate approximately 5.5 billion euros in additional tax revenue. Furthermore, 12 to 13 new jobs would be created for every 1 million euros of construction volume, and renovations could reduce CO2 emissions in the building sector by up to 40 percent.

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Danijel Lučić, Head of Sales at ISOVER and Managing Director of Sales and Marketing at RIGIPS, presented the companies’ solutions for the task force “More Housing in the Roof” during a major industry meeting in Berlin.

ISOVER and RIGIPS for “Smart Urban Densification”

“These figures alone quickly make it clear what ecological and economic opportunities lie in creating new housing of contemporary quality,” Danijel Lučić explained during the conference. “A key success factor lies in smart urban densification. The Leaftech study, which we presented at the summit, highlights the enormous potential of rooftop extensions and attic conversions based on current data. This could significantly accelerate the creation of new and urgently needed housing. That is one of the reasons why ISOVER and RIGIPS will actively participate in the ‘Neues Bauen’ task force ‘More Housing in the Roof’ in the future. Both companies have been developing insulation and construction solutions for many years that contribute to creating comfortable and economical housing in relatively short construction times. We are taking on the challenges of the construction turnaround and working intensively with all partners of ‘Neues Bauen’ to ensure that all mentioned potentials are realised.”

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On 24 and 25 June 2025, around 1,100 guests from the construction industry, including project developers, architects, investors, construction and general contractors, manufacturers, start-ups and scientists, gathered in Berlin for the 'Construction Site Meeting' with high-ranking politicians. Together, they discussed how ambitious housing targets could be met quickly. Photos: wyrwa fotografie

Further information about “Neues Bauen – 80 Sekunden” and the Berlin “Construction Site Meeting” on 24 and 25 June 2025, can be found at https://80-sekunden.de.

SAINT-GOBAIN RIGIPS GMBH
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Recognised as a system provider by construction professionals for its high-quality drywall construction solutions, RIGIPS offers a wide range of gypsum and speciality boards, Rigidur gypsum fibreboards, profiles, accessories and high-performance joint fillers and compounds. These certified solutions are ideal for interior and exterior drywall constructions, providing highly effective fire and sound protection for maximum safety and comfort. Our comprehensive product and system portfolio is complemented by a wide range of services to support the planning and execution of even the most demanding construction projects. At the same time, RIGIPS is committed to environmental responsibility, focusing on sustainable climate protection and the conservation of natural resources. For instance, gypsum board recycling options increasingly close material cycles, while product packaging made from recycled materials reduces the need for primary raw materials. RIGIPS is part of the international Saint-Gobain Group. In a nutshell: RIGIPS – building better for people and the environment.

ABOUT SAINT-GOBAIN
As a global leader in sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain develops, produces and distributes materials and services for the construction sector and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for renovating public and private buildings, lightweight construction, and decarbonising the construction sector and industry are developed through continuous innovation. These solutions offer sustainability and performance. The Saint-Gobain Group, which will celebrate its 360th anniversary in 2025, is guided by its purpose: “MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME”.

• 46.6 billion euros in revenue in 2024
• More than 161,000 employees, represented in 80 countries
• Committed to achieving global CO2 neutrality by 2050

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