While demolition has long been defined by heavy machinery and engineering expertise, discussions at the EDA Annual Convention 2026 in Dublin made one thing clear: digital technologies are now playing an equally significant role in making projects safer, more efficient and increasingly sustainable.
Throughout the convention, several speakers showcased how digital solutions are reshaping demolition and decommissioning, from project planning to execution.
Inside the program
One of the standout presentations, The Use of Digital Technologies in European Nuclear Decommissioning Projects, was delivered by Joseph A. Ridao of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Drawing on experience from complex nuclear decommissioning projects, Ridao explained how digital tools are improving planning, coordination and risk management. By providing more accurate data and better project visibility, these technologies enable teams to make informed decisions and minimise uncertainty throughout every stage of the process.
Digital innovation also took centre stage during the presentation Optimizing Offshore Platform Decommissioning: AEM-Based Demolition Analysis of the Northern Producer Platform. Ahmed Amir Khalil and Phil Peberdy demonstrated how advanced engineering analysis and digital modelling can be used to assess demolition strategies for offshore structures. Their case study highlighted the potential to enhance both operational safety and project efficiency by testing different scenarios before work begins.
The program also looked ahead to future industry standards. During a dedicated workshop, René Kampmeier introduced delegates to the forthcoming European standard EN 17998 – Demolition Machinery, outlining the technical requirements that are expected to influence equipment design, operational procedures and safety practices across the sector in the coming years.
Taken together, these sessions reflected a broader shift within the industry. Interested? Get the Conference Book of the Convention to discover all the presentations.