Cellocrete In a world concerned by the impact of global warming and the need of urgently move to more rational practices and ways of life, initiatives such as the workshop “Juuka in Ice” are excellent examples of what can be done to achieve a better future. It shows us clearly how we can get more with less resources. This project is much more than an eloquent demonstration of how to build sustainable ephemeral structures: it is also a really unique example of a huge platform of volunteer work, done by students and professors of different European countries, in an incredible 34 cooperative atmosphere. It also deserves a special mention the enthusiastic way the project has been progressively adopted by the locals and how they are so proud of it. More than the absolutely amazing expected results, the processes and the lessons learned in such an unpredictable exercise deserve the efforts to actively participate in it. I consider it a very special combination of ambition and simplicity, organization and spontaneity, applied research and creativity. I am a Civil Engineer and I have been a Professor of Structures for a long time in the School of Architecture of the University of Minho, in Portugal. My scientifi c activity is particularly devoted to contribute to the effi cient use of traditional materials and their judicious combination by exploring innovative technological, constructional and structural solutions. I started organising an International Conference on Structures and Architecture in 2010 which will have its 3rd edition in July 2016. We are proud to define it as the world’s leading and largest global conference bridging the gap between both disciplines, structures and architecture. The contributions on creative and scientifi c aspects in the conception and construction of structures, on advanced technologies and on complex architectural and structural applications represent a fi ne blend of scientifi c, technical and practical
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