Stimulation of urban mining hub realisation in the Netherlands

Master thesis (2024)

Authors

A.C. van der Mark Civil Engineering & Geosciences

Contributors

M.G.C. Bosch-Rekveldt Integral Design & Management - CEG (mentor)
Hans Ramler Integral Design & Management - CEG (mentor)
L.P.I.M. Hombergen Integral Design & Management - CEG (mentor)
M.H. Hermans Design & Construction Management - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
D.S. Huizing (mentor)
Faculty
Civil Engineering & Geosciences
Circular construction Circular economy (CE) Urban mining Urban mining hubs Circular construction hubs Circulair hub development Urban mining hub development
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Published Date

28-06-2024

Language

English

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Faculty

Civil Engineering & Geosciences

Abstract

The Dutch government aims for a fully circular built environment by 2050, transitioning from a linear to a circular economy. This involves establishing construction hubs, divided into circular hubs (focusing on closed-loop material chains) and non-circular hubs (focusing on efficient transportation). Currently, only a small fraction of construction and demolition waste is reused, making the role of circular construction hubs crucial.

This study investigates how to stimulate the realisation of urban mining hubs in the Netherlands. The primary research question is: How can the realisation of urban mining hubs in the Netherlands be stimulated? Data was collected through a literature review and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders in the construction sector.

Findings highlight the undefined role of hubs within the urban mining process and the advantages they offer, including resource conservation, financial savings, and employment opportunities within a circular economy. Barriers include insufficient material supply and demand, inventory uncertainties, and inadequate legislation. An actionable framework was developed, consisting of three phases: initiation, optimisation, and expansion, with a focus on innovation, education, and collaboration among stakeholders.