Circularity and Biobased Materials in Architecture and Design: Evaluation of the Status Quo and Defining Future Perspectives

The document titled "Circularity and Biobased Materials in Architecture and Design: Evaluation of the Status Quo and Defining Future Perspectives" was created under the auspices of 4TU Design United, a collaborative research initiative involving four universities of technology in the Netherlands. The editors, Juliette Bekkering, Cristina Nan, and Torsten Schröder, aim to explore the pressing need for circular and biobased approaches in the building industry, particularly in light of climate change and resource depletion.

The architectural and building sectors are significant contributors to global resource consumption, energy use, CO2 emissions, and waste generation. In the Netherlands, the construction industry is responsible for 50% of raw material consumption and 40% of energy use. The Dutch government has set an ambitious goal to make the building industry fully circular by 2050, meaning all materials and raw resources will be reusable or biobased, with a focus on high-quality reuse and sustainable practices.

Circularity involves shifting from a linear to a circular design paradigm, which includes rethinking building practices to incorporate the reuse of materials and the use of biobased sources. The document highlights the need for a unified understanding of circularity across stakeholders and underlines the importance of collaborative efforts in research and practice.

The report presents various case studies showcasing innovative approaches in circularity and biobased materials in architecture. Notable projects include the Gare Maritime in Brussels, a monumental structure transformed into a multifunctional space using sustainable materials, and the Biopartner 5 building in Leiden, which emphasizes the use of existing materials and biobased components.

To advance circularity in architecture, the authors propose several strategies: developing databases for used materials, creating supportive policies, and enhancing public awareness of circular design principles. The integration of new technologies and collaborative partnerships between academia and industry are essential for achieving these goals.

Insights gathered from industry professionals indicate that challenges such as certification of new biobased materials and the need for long-term thinking in investment strategies are significant. Nonetheless, there is a growing enthusiasm for circular practices in the building sector, driven by increased awareness and government initiatives.

The document emphasizes that transitioning to a circular economy in architecture and design is crucial for sustainable housing. It calls for a comprehensive approach that involves all stakeholders in the building process, as well as a commitment to innovation and sustainability in the face of pressing global challenges.