On May 15, 2025, the Society of Heating, Air-Conditioning and Sanitary Engineers of Japan (SHASE) recognized Professor Jarek Kurnitski with the title of International Honorary Member. This is the highest international recognition that SHASE awards to foreign experts.
Professor Kurnitski is one of Europe's leading researchers in the field of building energy efficiency, and his work has had a significant impact on the development of nearly zero-energy buildings in Europe. Since 2012, under the leadership of REHVA (Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations), he has contributed to the development of the definition and calculation methodology for nearly zero-energy buildings, which has had a major impact on building standards across Europe. The methodology developed under his leadership has also been published as international ISO standards.
Over the years, SHASE and REHVA have developed a close working relationship, with Professor Kurnitski visiting Japan on numerous occasions, including visits to the development centers of leading construction corporations and relevant ministries. In recent years, under his leadership, a joint document has been compiled that compares and coordinates the development trends of European zero-emission buildings and Japanese zero-energy buildings, combining the best practices and knowledge of both regions.
"Most pleasing about the cooperation with the Japanese is both their high-tech society and their attitude and culture. The award is a welcome recognition of cooperation in the field of energy efficiency, in which Europe and Japan have a strong common interest due to the scarcity of natural resources. The politeness, modesty, and tactfulness of the Japanese are exceptional, which makes interacting with them pleasant on a human level as well," says Jarek Kurnsitski.
The award was presented at a formal ceremony during the SHASE general meeting in Tokyo. This recognition reflects Professor Kurnitski's long-standing and fruitful cooperation with Japanese scientists and engineers. The day after the award ceremony, on May 16, Professor Kurnitski gave a public lecture at Nagoya University, where he presented European experiences and developments in the field of emission-free buildings.
Additional information about SHASE: https://www.shasej.org