The Built Environment is at the forefront of climate change & waste generation: it is expected that 68% of the world’s population will live in urban areas by 2050. This rapid growth will require the construction of billions of new buildings. Meanwhile, estimates indicate that the construction industry makes up half of our global GHG emissions, and in North America, consumes about 40% of raw materials.
New technologies and materials promise new opportunities to decrease and even neutralize the built environment’s waste generation and carbon footprint. From alternative building materials and design, to material re-use, smart buildings, and integrated policy networks. Circular economy principles are being recognized by governments and businesses as tools that will lessen the environmental impacts of the built environment while increasing livability. This session will dive into the increasing opportunities to re-imagine the built environment for the better.
