(RE)DEVELOP THE FUTURE

Abstract

Context - The current environmental situation as a result of human life reflects the demand for more consciousness on the embedded energy of buildings. Moreover, due to the recent economic crisis the perceived naturalness to demolish existing buildings for new development is outdated. Hence, new functions should be accommodated in existing buildings, through sustainable adaptive reuse. However, traditional approaches are failing. New, innovative business models are needed to enable maintenance and adaptive reuse of heritage buildings in order to finally rebuilding the future.

Objective - This explorative and design-oriented research aims to have insight on the circular redevelopment potential of elements within the existing built environment. This research focused on two central themes, respectively adaptive reuse of societal heritage projects and circular economy. These central themes represent the theoretical framework. The overarching objective was to accelerate a transition from a linear economy towards a circular economy through circular redevelopment.
Methods - This thesis is structured from both an empirical and operational perspective. Literature study is used to summarize prior research, critically examine contributions, explain results of prior research and clarify differences in alternative views of the past. The conclusion extracted from the empirical study will be used as input for the operational model, together with unstructured expert interviews, and a case study research.

Results - The CRP indicator comprises 6 consecutive strategies which are assessed for each component; respectively (1) Reuse, (2) Repair, (3) Refurbish, (4) Remanufacture, (5) Repurpose and finally (6) Recycle. Identifying the degree of circularity starts with the assessment of applied material characteristics (Bill Of Materials) and their relation and interfaces with all elements in the system (Disassembly Determining Factors). By combining this factor with the actual condition on site (NEN 2767), the applicable reutilization potential of an element could be developed. In accordance with the preferred representability of predefined spaces specific components are categorized if applicable. Altogether, this reflects the degree of circularity of a building (Building Circularity Indicator) for a particular intervention.

Conclusion - The CRP Indicator is a useful tool for the assessment of properties to implement circularity during the redevelopment process. Building inspectors can provide property managers/ owners with objective data about the applied material characteristics and corresponding condition status of building elements. It supports principals to identify preconditions, in order to specify their ambition on circularity and provide the sufficient information to actually enable contractors to differentiate from their competitors during tenders. The assessment model is not intended as a certificate or label, however could be used as supportive instrument to substantiate any classification on this matter.