Fit for 2050: Redesigning Spaces for Wellbeing, Inclusivity, and Sustainable Performance
Abstract submission for the 2026 CIBSE Technical Symposium is now closed.
Selected authors are invited to submit their full submission by 29 September 2025.
The 2026 Symposium at Loughborough University (23 - 24 April) will bring together industry experts, thought leaders, policy makers and academia to explore the future of building services design with a focus on wellbeing, inclusivity, and sustainable performance. Home to one of the UK’s largest integrated schools for the built environment, Loughborough University brings together expertise in architecture, building, and civil engineering to address global challenges. Its world-class facilities and interdisciplinary research make it the ideal host for a symposium focused on advancing building services for health, wellbeing, and sustainability. We are also pleased to announce that the 2026 Symposium will be endorsed by ASHRAE.
See guidance on submissions below:
Papers represent original research, application (including full case studies) or development and should be between 3000 and 5000 words.
A slide-based report of a specific application (typically relating to the performance of a specific engineering or environmental system) that is likely to include both qualitative and quantitative investigation. If accepted, the final case study should include brief keynotes for the audience.
Posters provide the opportunity to summarise information of research, application or case study concisely and share your work and generate discussion. This will be presented in a dedicated session together with other posters for delegates to view. A poster can be accompanied by a written paper, and there are optional opportunities to provide a four-minute compendiary 'poster pitch' presentation (see below) to all delegates in a plenary session.
Accepted papers, reviews, case studies, and opinions will normally be delivered as part of a symposium session with a presentation of approximately 15 minutes (plus Q&A).
The compendiary 'Poster Pitch' is a limited availability option to present a four-minute fast-track highlights presentation with limited slides to a plenary session of all delegates. This is available to those who have been commissioned to provide a poster.
A paper that summarises the current state of understanding on a topic between 2000 and 5000 words. This is likely to include information that has been drawn from previously published studies.
This provides an opportunity to present a brief, justified opinion that should recognise contrary opinions or arguments and be supported with appropriate evidence and would be typically between 1000 and 3000 words.