Responsibility that carries weight –
Concrete construction for a world worth living in
Under the heading of “Markets for People”, the 2026 edition of the BetonTage congress will once again bring together experts from the fields of architecture and design, construction, industry, science, and public administration. The above motto aptly encapsulates the essence of our industry, today more than ever, which is the interplay between the economic environment, technical innovations, and the people who are shaping our built environment.
The construction industry is currently experiencing a period of profound change. Global markets, volatile raw material prices, new supply chains, growing demands for sustainability and resource efficiency, and the shortage of skilled labor are all shaping our daily lives. At the same time, society increasingly calls for more resilient, durable, and climate-friendly buildings and structures. Concrete is the most significant construction material in this regard; it is exposed to the delicate balance between market mechanisms and social responsibility.
The German Committee for Structural Concrete (DAfStb) aims to support this interplay constructively by developing sound standards and guidelines, fostering innovation, and facilitating dialogue between all stakeholders. Our guidelines, recommendations, and research activities lay the foundation for the safe, economical, and sustainable use of new materials, construction methods and digital technologies – in the interests of the market and, above all, the people.
The BetonTage congress provides a unique platform for this. The event facilitates open dialogue between researchers and practitioners, seasoned professionals and junior engineers, and national and international perspectives. This dialogue is even more crucial in times of change in order to build trust, share knowledge, and jointly develop viable solutions.
We believe that the future of construction will be shaped not only by technical innovations, but also by the people who use them responsibly. Skills, creativity, and integrity remain the most important resources in our industry. If we succeed in combining economic performance with social and environmental responsibility, concrete construction will continue to play a significant role in creating a sustainable built environment worth living in.
The German Committee for Structural Concrete would like to thank the organizers, speakers, and all attendees for their dedication and commitment. On this note, we wish all of you a successful, impactful, and inspiring 2026 edition of the BetonTage congress.
Yours sincerely,
Michael Haist and Udo Wiens
German Committee for Structural Concrete (DAfStb)
