The architectural design for the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) in Gashora, designed by Mass Design Group, is among projects long-listed for this year's global Dezeen Awards in the sustainability category.

Dezeen Awards is an annual awards programme, identifying the world's best architecture, interiors, design and sustainability projects, as well as the studios and the individual architects and designers producing the most outstanding work.

A total of 81 projects were long-listed for awards in six sustainability project categories. The projects are by architectural firms located in 20 different countries including Rwanda, Australia, Austria, Germany, and Brazil.

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According to Mass Design Group, the RICA campus, which sits on 3,400 acres, applies the principles of One Health, emphasising the interconnectedness of ecological, animal, and human health throughout its design philosophy.

The campus plan prioritises conservation and restoration of the area’s ecological balance, while the building design incorporates biogenic materials, according to Mass Design Group.

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Under the Dezeen Awards' sustainable building category, new buildings that excel in their approach to sustainability, including zero-carbon or negative carbon projects, circular projects, reversible buildings or buildings that employ environmentally friendly construction techniques, materials and energy sources will be awarded.

A panel of 90 judges will determine the projects that make it to the short-lists, to be announced in October this year.

Winners of this seventh edition of the Dezeen Awards will be announced on November 26 in London.