2026 Theme: Construction & Sustainability
From what we build, to how we live and work
In 2026, we shift our focus to one of the most impactful—and most transformative—sectors of all: construction. The buildings we live and work in shape our lives, our communities, and our planet. The choices we make today will define the physical and social infrastructure of tomorrow.
This season of the Impact Circle explores how we can reimagine construction, housing, and workspace design through the lens of sustainability, innovation, and impact.
We’ll look at:
• Circular building materials and supply chains
• Sustainable architecture and adaptive reuse
• Community-led development and affordable housing
• Innovative workplace models and healthy work environments
Together, we’ll uncover how construction can be more than bricks and budgets—it can be a tool for social and ecological regeneration.
Guest Speaker: Nick Dessens
Nick Dessens is an entrepreneur in sustainability since 2008, driven by a strong ambition to turn ideas into practical solutions as fast as possible. He is currently the co-founder of two innovative sustainable ventures:
Accu't, which develops energy storage systems using second-life electric vehicle batteries
NIDO, which designs and builds one-of-a-kind biobased homes using Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)
Both companies were launched in the Netherlands and are now gaining traction from Nick’s current base in Portugal.
Through NIDO, Nick takes on one of the most conservative industries—construction—by proving that building differently is not only possible, but essential. By constructing biobased homes, large amounts of CO₂ are captured instead of emitted. NIDO actively adopts and pushes innovations that are critical to bringing the construction sector up to date, while still meeting ambitious building standards in the Netherlands.
Nick’s work demonstrates how sustainable construction can move from concept to reality—and how the built environment can become a powerful driver of climate-positive change.