Ten Questions Concerning Circularity in the Built Environment

Abstract

The rapid urbanisation of our societies calls for an urban renewal movement, including developing new areas to accommodate housing facilities and services and regenerating existing urban areas. Yet, urban renewal projects pose trade-offs impacting both environmental and socio-economic aspects. The renovation and new construction of buildings can escalate the use of energy and material resources as well as increasing greenhouse gas emissions. The European Union plays a leading role in promoting the transition towards sustainable and inclusive cities, whereas other regions such as North America, Australia and Asia follow suit via Circular Economy Action Plans or Frameworks, highlighting the need to enhance resource efficiency in buildings through the use of durable and circular materials. Current research on resource efficiency in buildings follows the Circular Economy concept, which aims to reduce the use of raw materials and the waste of existing materials while retaining their value for as long as possible. However, the role of the circular economy in sustainable transition and the adoption of its principles in urban contexts remain unclear while its practical implementation still faces significant challenges, including the lack of analytical instruments and assessment methods as well as co-creative approaches. This 'Ten Questions contribution' provides an overview of the pressing issues concerning circularity in the built environment, the state-of-the-art and best practices, challenges and benefits, policies and regulations, as well as numerous strategies applied on the building and neighbourhood level, assessment methodologies and future trends.