The path to a circular built environment
The transition towards a circular and dynamic built environment will require a holistic and transdisciplinary approach.
The first step in changing a system is understanding it. The elements of a sound system description include a determination of the relevant players and their interrelations, key system functions, the institutions and regulations, flows and barriers and so forth.
A path to a more sustainable society or system is initiated mainly by an appealing and inspiring vision, a clear visual or non-visual “image ”of a desired system based on shared principles (of a sustainable development). Truly inspiring visions of the future should be seen as a basket of diversity:
multiple ‘end images’ or narratives complying with established basic principles, leaving room for individual choice in the quest for a shift towards a sustainable future.
From an inspiring and clear vision, different pathways to the desired system can be outlined. This ‘back-casting’ exercise (returning to the present from an image of the future) results in a number of strategic paths that can be followed to co-establish the new system. These pathways constitute a portfolio of options, which comprises diversity and choice, a highly significant characteristic of stable and resilient systems.
Within BAMB, the system will be investigated and described in a state-of-the-art overview. A vision and the desired system will be described in a blueprint for the dynamic and circular built environment, focused on Reversible Building Design and Materials Passports.