How can the circular economy in the built environment drive climate change mitigation?

The building sector is a major contributor to resource consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable and circular solutions. Transitioning to a circular economy model, through the reuse of materials, sustainable construction practices and improved renovation strategies, can play a key role in climate change mitigation and the reduction of environmental impacts.

During this EU Green Week partner event, experts and stakeholders from three Horizon Europe projects – CIRCOMOD, CircEUlar and CO2NSTRUCT – will discuss innovative circular approaches that can transform the sector. The session will focus on policy frameworks, circular pathways and consumer behaviour, highlighting good practices and research findings that support the transition to circularity.

The session will cover:

• Policy frameworks – Building standards, funding schemes and regulatory drivers
• Consumer behaviour – How building user choices affect sustainability
• Business pathways – Results from key research projects on sustainable materials use

Starting with circular pathways of material use in buildings and transport infrastructure, the event will then zoom into construction material value chains and conclude with the design and use of household appliances.

The event is open to all interested parties but will be most relevant to policymakers, industry representatives, researchers and professionals engaged in sustainable construction, urban planning, circular economy initiatives and environmental policy. Participants will gain insight into the research findings to support the implementation of circular economy principles in the building sector.

This event will take place online at 10:30 - 12:00 CEST on 18 June. It will be in English. Registration and programme.