INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION: (PART II): REVIEW OF EXISTING ARRANGEMENTS

Abstract

More than half of all investments in the United Nations economic commission for Europe (ECE) countries take the form of construction works. Most of what is constructed, modernized and maintained is directly or indirectly influenced by government decisions through building regulations, stipulations for financial aid and subsidies, and public financing. It is of interest to governments to ensure that economy and efficiency is achieved throughout the design and construction process, in the production, transport and handling of building materials and components and in the maintenance, modernization and operation of buildings and other construction works. As in all other sectors of the economy, progress in the building materials and construction industries is influenced by research and development work. Despite certain differences in the socio-economic conditions and the physical environment in the ECE region, there are major prospects for international cooperation by an exchange of research programmes and research results relating to building design, materials and construction technologies.