Losberger De Boer has delivered the temporary structure for the World Climate Change Conference 2017 (COP23). Diplomats, politicians and representatives of civil society from all over the world negotiated in Bonn from 6 to 17 November 2017.

The gathering was the largest intergovernmental conference ever held in Germany.

The conference had a dual concept – action and negotiation – and there were two main zones: The ‘Bula’ zone was located between the World Conference Center Bonn and the United Nations Campus. This was the negotiation area of COP23.

The ‘Bonn Zone’ was staged in the Rheinaue Park, and it hosted the showcase of projects for implementation and approaches to solving problems.

In the German pavilion alone – located in the ‘Bonn’ Zone – more than 60 events on the subject of climate protection took place.

The project

Losberger De Boer developed conference and event areas for the Bonn Zone for over 150 exhibitors from 25 countries who are presenting their developments in sustainability relating to specific projects and approaches to solutions.

To achieve this, 43 tents and halls with a total size of over 20,000 sq m were combined to make an innovative, temporary space solution that unites sustainability, aesthetics and functionality.

The centre of the Bonn Zone consisted of a twin-aisle great hall structure, welcoming visitors to the central accreditation in three languages with its 2.45 m high parapet. The catering area was also accommodated in here on two levels. Up to 1,500 people could be catered for at any time here.

The second floor was made accessible with the installation of a six-metre-high electric lift which was installed especially for the purpose of the temporary hall structure.

The two great halls were not only captivating with their attractive, cubic design but also made a considerable contribution to the sustainability sentiment of the COP23. By using thermal roof covers, thermal wall elements and heat protection glazing, the structures helped improve energy efficiency in 8,500 m² of event floor space.

Up to 114 metre-long walkways led to the conference area. Transparent, translucent roof covers were integrated into the roof spaces at frequent intervals, bringing the daylight inside and saving energy that would otherwise be used for artificial light, again contributing to the sustainability sentiment of COP23.

The conference building concept consisted of temporary units of various dimensions, adjusted precisely to the space required for the event. It offered enough space for conferences and meetings, but also for catering, quiet zones and a trade fair and exhibition area.

Losberger De Boer said it may well be able to set an example for future climate conferences in terms of the sustainability aspect. The company is certified to DIN ISO 14001 and its activities are sustainable, both ecologically and economically.

Efficiency and sustainability

Altogether, 25 members of staff created over 20,000 sq m of temporary conference and event space in nine weeks, helped to improve energy efficiency.

The aim was to build on the large flower meadow in the Rheinaue Park in the most environmentally friendly way possible and to re-cultivate it after the project by the BMUB.

The hall and tent landscapes were erected on frames and access to the site was aided by roads. In addition to the cleverly thought out logistics concept, Losberger De Boer was also responsible for other works, such as parts of the interior design, floor coverings and the security measures in the entrance area.