Virtual X Water

Abstract

To achieve a circular economy in South Holland by 2050, the construction and demolition sector must use resources efficiently, close materials loops and work with fewer emissions. Currently recycling building materials is already the approach. Yet, since this costs a lot of energy and results mostly in downcycling, it is not ideal as a long term solution to achieve a durable circular economy. Adding to this, is the space limitation within the continuous growth. The usage of the existing space and infrastructure has to be optimized. This research is answering what is the best strategy to close material loops in South Holland while reusing the existing water infrastructure, amplifying it with integrated (data) networks and improving socio-spatial justice with circular hubs. The research is being executed by analysing the most efficient waterways to use in the area, defining transformation locations according to a data-driven matrix and designing the most efficient circular hub network possible. The waterways will connect circular hubs on 3 scales, a regional processing hub, a city storage & purchase hub and a flexible last mile hub. Transporting materials and goods in between the circular hubs helps in reducing CO2 emission and it can substantiate traffic on the roads. This leads to less busy highways, safer city centres and efficient use of transport. All the logistic flows and used-material flows come together in the Virtual realm, where all used-material data is accessible and a twin-region is ensuring spatial justice. Therefore the concept of Virtual X Water is the answer to define the transition towards a circular economy in 2050.