João Castro Gomes, a Professor at the University of Beira Interior (UBI) and leader of the Centre of Materials and Building Technologies Research Unit since January 2007, has significantly advanced the field of sustainable construction materials. Graduating from the University of Minho with a degree in Civil Engineering and completing his PhD at the University of Leeds in 1997, João has developed eco-materials through waste and carbon dioxide co-utilization. His pioneering work in reducing the construction industry's carbon footprint has earned him several awards. João's commitment to sustainability extends to education and mentorship, emphasising the importance of scientific careers in global sustainability.