In the past five years, the integration of circular economy principles and consideration of the whole life cycle carbon footprint have become critical aspects of modern building design, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness in the construction industry.
What is a Green Economy?
Doughnut economics, a concept pioneered by economist Kate Raworth, proposes that our economy should be a regenerative and distributive economic model that strives to ensure humanity's well-being while staying within the ecological boundaries of the planet, fostering a balance between social needs and environmental sustainability.
Circular Economy
A circular economy involves transforming traditional linear practices into a more sustainable and resource-efficient model. This approach integrates principles such as designing for disassembly, incorporating recycled and reclaimed materials, promoting adaptive reuse of existing structures, and prioritising longevity and durability. By minimising waste during construction, optimising material usage, and emphasising life cycle assessments, the built environment can contribute to a circular economy.
Whole Life-Cycle Carbon
This approach involves considering not only the operational carbon associated with energy use during a building's lifespan but also the embodied carbon tied to the production and transportation of construction materials. By accounting for the entire life cycle, from material extraction to end-of-life considerations, architects and builders can make informed decisions to minimise the carbon footprint of structures.
