The Centre for Net Zero High Density Buildings (CeNZ‑HighDB)

A research centre that supports and develops Net Zero solutions for high density buildings and streetscapes. It will test new prototypes and retrofit buildings with low-carbon materials, heating and cooling systems, and energy storage technologies.

A Green Economy Centre funded by UKRI, CeNZ-HighDB is a collaboration between five Universities across the Central Belt of Scotland, with industry engagement also forming a key area of focus. It aims to accelerate Net Zero inclusive whole system approaches, supporting business green growth, skills, jobs, and communities via Thematic Working Groups (TWGs).

“There is a critical net zero challenge for our cities and towns, where densely packed buildings and complex streetscapes make a significant contribution to annual carbon emissions. The retrofit of buildings will become one of the largest activities in the global construction industry and this centre will help the UK lead the way on new green economy solutions, enabling business growth and preparing for the skills and jobs ahead”.

Professor Sean Smith, PI – Centre for Net Zero High Density Buildings

Latest News

Guy Martin’s Ice Box Experiment

29 Jun 2026

CeNZ-HighDB were recently part of a collaborative project that saw TV presenter Guy Martin conduct an ‘Ice Box Challenge’ as part of a range of building physics experiments for his recent House Without Bills programme for Channel 4. The challenge looked at how well...

Professor Sean Smith appointed as chair of new built environment Mission Board

26 Jun 2026

Professor Sean Smith, Principal Investigator for the Centre for Net Zero High Density Buildings (CeNZ-HighDB), has been appointed as chair of a new Mission Board convened to help drive circular change across Scotland’s built environment. The sector-led Mission Board...

Professor Robert Hairstans wins Scotland’s Home of the Year

5 Jun 2026

CeNZ-HighDB would like to congratulate Thematic Working Group 6's lead Professor Robert Hairstans, and his family, on winning Scotland's Home of the Year 2026 (BBC Scotland). 'Homegrown Hoose' fought off stiff competition from homes across the whole of Scotland, from...

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