So bauen und wohnen wir 2040

The article, published by Good Impact and authored by Miriam Petzold, discusses the future of construction and living by 2040, emphasizing the need for circular construction to meet climate goals. This publication comes at a time when sustainable housing is becoming increasingly critical in Europe, as cities face challenges related to resource scarcity and environmental degradation.

The narrative begins with Christina Fuchs, an architect, who is involved in the deconstruction of a residential building in Hamburg-Altona. Instead of traditional demolition, the building is being "harvested," allowing valuable raw materials to be reused rather than disposed of as waste. This shift in approach underscores a broader trend where deconstruction is preferred over demolition, and buildings are viewed as "urban mines" for reusable materials. In 2021, the land consumption rate for new settlements and roads was alarmingly high at 55 hectares per day, prompting the need for sustainable practices.

Fuchs describes her design process as "design by availability," akin to piecing together a Lego set. Her designs are heavily influenced by the materials she can source, leading to innovative methods of construction that prioritize sustainability. The increasing scarcity of new construction permits forces architects to be creative in utilizing available resources, including salvaged beams and ceiling elements. Digital scans of buildings, including their material passports, facilitate this resource-sharing approach.

The construction landscape is evolving with technological advancements that promote sustainability. Heavy machinery now operates on electricity rather than diesel, resulting in cleaner air at construction sites. Materials that cannot be reused as whole components are crushed and processed into 3D printing materials. This technique not only saves time but also reduces waste, allowing for the creation of unique building designs that can incorporate curved lines and intricate patterns.

The article also highlights the work of Luis Elbaz, who is repurposing a former cable factory into residential space. His projects often involve converting underutilized buildings, such as churches and parking garages, into livable spaces. New regulations stipulate that primary raw materials can only be used when recycled materials are insufficient. This ensures that every element in construction is removable and sustainable.

Valerie Schott, a construction transition activist, advocates for a model termed "room as a service," aiming to optimize living spaces while promoting communal areas like parks and cafes. Research indicates that 25 square meters per person can suffice if sufficient public spaces are available. This approach suggests that up to 30 million people could be accommodated without new construction, addressing both housing shortages and environmental concerns.

The article concludes with a vision for the construction sector to become 100% circular and emission-free within a decade. The Netherlands is cited as a pioneer in this area, having implemented a CO2 tax on building materials that encourages the use of sustainable alternatives, including geopolymers instead of traditional cement. The transition toward sustainable building materials is not only necessary but increasingly feasible due to evolving regulations and technologies.

Innovative technologies such as drones and robotic arms are now employed in construction, reducing the physical strain on workers. These advancements allow for more efficient building processes, enabling the use of materials that are more aligned with sustainability goals. The construction methods of the future emphasize flexibility, allowing for easier disassembly and recycling of building components.