Energy efficiency, digitalization and evolving regulatory requirements are changing the framework conditions for the European air movement and building industry. How these developments affect manufacturers, planners, consultants and building operators will be at the center of the AMCA European Air Movement & Control Symposium 2026 on 17 November in Lisbon, Portugal. Under the theme “Better Buildings Through Fans, Certified Performance, Air Distribution and Fire Safety,” the symposium will bring together industry experts and market stakeholders to discuss current requirements, future developments and their implications for the European market.

European requirements for fans and ventilation technology continue to evolve. Ecodesign, Digital Product Passports and increasing expectations regarding reliable product and performance data continue to shape the business environment, making cooperation between key industry associations such as AMCA and Eurovent, and the manufacturing sector as a whole, critical. “Evolving requirements make reliable, comparable performance data increasingly important. Manufacturers, planners and building operators need a shared understanding of what these changes mean in practice. The symposium offers an opportunity to discuss how regulation and certification can support informed decisions and greater energy efficiency,” explained Dr. Julien Grilliat, Director Public & Regulatory Affairs, Europe, ebm‑papst.

The symposium broadens the discussion from individual fans to air movement and control throughout buildings. Sessions will cover HVLS fan applications and standards, air control and fire safety, while the opening keynote will explore future cities and buildings. “Air movement plays an essential role in how buildings perform and how people experience them. Looking beyond individual components helps us understand how ventilation, air distribution and controls work together to support energy efficiency, healthy indoor environments and safety. Bringing these perspectives together is what makes this discussion valuable,” said Jürgen Albig, Senior Vice President Public Affairs, Ziehl-Abegg.

Digitalization is adding another dimension to the transformation of the industry. One focus of the symposium will therefore be the practical use of Artificial Intelligence in industrial and building processes. The program combines a dedicated session on Applied AI with short industry case studies from the three sponsors Systemair, Ziehl-Abegg and ebm‑papst, providing examples of how AI-related approaches are being applied in practice.

Beyond the technical sessions, panel discussions, networking opportunities and an interactive AMCA Europe Town Hall, the Symposium will bring together professionals from across the building and air movement industries to discuss changing market requirements and future priorities. “With topics ranging from regulation and certification to AI and future buildings, alongside a keynote from Prof. Dr. Gerhard Schmitt of ETH Zurich, there is plenty to look forward to in Lisbon. Taking place alongside related AMCA, Eurovent, CEN and ISO meetings, the symposium is also an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues, share experiences and explore what comes next for our industry. We look forward to welcoming you there,” added Morten Schmelzer, Head of Group Public Affairs, Systemair, and Chair, AMCA Europe.

Registration is still open. Industry professionals interested in the developments shaping the future of European air movement and building technology are invited to join the symposium in Lisbon on 17 November 2026, gain insights from industry experts and discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead with peers from across the sector. Further information and registration are available at: https://cvent.me/qgnklL.