Embed circular economy thinking into building retrofit
But in a future net zero world, we are likely to also seek to replace insulation more often to improve building energy efficiency.
In the context of finite natural resources and climate change, transitioning to a circular economy (CE) in this sector is imperative to preserve natural resources and to strive in achieving zero waste and pollution reduction. This study aims to explore the concepts and principles of CE as applied within the built environment discipline.
Housing Design for Circular Economy and Sustainability
The circular economy is based on the six Rs notion: reduce, reuse, recycle, redesign, remanufacture, and recover [2]. Reduce indicates limiting the inputs involved in the manufacturing of an object, encompassing both the resources and energy utilized in the production process [3].
The toolkit has taken the principles of the circular economy circular economy A systems solution framework that tackles global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, waste, and pollution. It is based on three principles , driven by design: eliminate waste and pollution, circulate products and materials (at their highest value), and regenerate nature. and translated them into a ...
Circular strategies
Retrofitting a building involves making modifications or additions to an existing structure to improve its functionality, energy efficiency, safety, or esthetics. Extending the life of an existing building is a key principle of the circular economy—an alternative to the linear "take-make-use-dispose" system.
ABSTRACT Building renovation is widely considered an effective strategy for reducing the environmental impact of urban housing stock. In recent years, interest in 'circular renovation' - the application of Circular Economy approaches to building renovation - has grown but implementation pathways for circular renovations are still lacking.
The fast population and economic growth put tremendous pressure on the planet's resources. In this context, the building sector is recognized as one of the most significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and the use of raw materials. The Circular Economy (CE) is expected to contribute to a reduction of waste landfills, extraction of raw materials, and greenhouse gas emissions. This ...
Guide to Circularity in the built environment
The guide is a handy resource for architects, builders, and policymakers keen on embracing circular practices in construction. It delves into key themes like circular design principles , resource efficiency, and the role of standardisation and digitisation in promoting sustainability.
There are four circular ecosystem actions that materials and parts manufacturers can take to capture value in the energy -efficiency retrofit industry.
