The 24th Müller-BBM expert discussions, held on 30th September and 1st October 2026 in Berlin, once again demonstrated why the event has been one of the most important industry gatherings in the German-speaking world for many years. For two days, representatives from public authorities, municipalities, industry, the energy sector, planning, consultancy, science and the legal profession discussed current challenges and developments in environmental protection. The focus was on topics such as urban land-use planning, noise protection, air quality control, and authorisation and enforcement practices.
What makes these technical discussions so special is the combination of top-class specialist presentations and in-depth personal exchanges. The conference brings together precisely those professionals who work on a daily basis at the interface between technical planning, legal requirements and practical implementation. This gives rise to discussions that go far beyond the mere transfer of knowledge.
As accurately stated in the opening remarks on the second day of the event:
“In fact, we live at a time in which we know more about our subject than ever before. We can calculate, model, simulate and visualise.”
At the same time, it became clear that the real challenge often does not lie in technical knowledge, but in applying it within planning and approval processes. It is precisely for this purpose that the Müller-BBM expert discussions offer a unique platform for dialogue between public authorities, operators, investors, planners, consultants and lawyers.
The special value of the event lies in the diversity of perspectives. A thought from the opening address summed this up:
“What I have particularly enjoyed about our expert discussions over the years is the mix of perspectives. People who draw up permits sit alongside people who apply for them. And occasionally, this leads to the surprising realisation that everyone involved is complaining about the same problems, just from different angles.”
With their combination of leading experts, cutting-edge topics and an open exchange of experiences, the Müller-BBM expert discussions have once again established themselves as one of the leading specialist events for noise protection, immission control, urban land-use planning and air quality management. Anyone wishing to find out which developments will shape the future of planning and approval practices will find first-hand information here, as well as a unique network spanning public administration, science and professional practice.
We would like to express our sincere thanks to all the speakers, participants and contributors for two insightful days of events in Berlin, and we look forward to continuing this successful series of events.