Circular Materials—A Multiscale Approach to Circularity at a Building, Components and Materials Level

Abstract

Sustainable practices and strategies to enhance resource efficiency while minimising waste in buildings and their constituent elements are key towards circularity at the urban built environment. In this chapter three implementation scales, under the paradigm of the circular economy (CE), are measured—i.e., buildings, components and materials—, considering both new and existing buildings’ implementations. Aspects such as design for adaptability and flexibility, modular and flexible spaces and concepts, energy and water efficiency are discussed. By implementing CE strategies at the component-level using a multipronged approach would extend the lifespan and contribute to environmental and economic sustainability. This includes the refurbishment and upgrading of components and the adoption of modular construction techniques, among other techniques and solutions. The last part of the chapter presents the concept of circular materials and its circularity potential at promote extended product lifecycles and transforming waste into valuable resources. Integrating sustainable and circular design principles within construction practices is proposed towards more sustainable and resource-efficient industries’ transformations. © The Author(s) 2025.