Unlocking Circular Economy Potential: Digital Passports for Existing Buildings
Digital passports have emerged as crucial tools for achieving the circular economy goals set by the European Union. In particular, passports for circularity, such as digital product passports and material passports (MPs), have gained recognition as essential policy instruments. However, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding the data requirements and availabilities needed to create MPs for existing buildings.
To address this knowledge gap, a mixed-method research design was deployed to identify the potential users and their data needs within the context of European social housing organizations. Through three rounds of validation interviews involving 38 participants, a data template for an MP covering maintenance, renovation, and demolition stages was created. This template was then put to the test in a case study from the Netherlands to determine critical data gaps when creating MPs for existing buildings.
The case study revealed several data gaps, including the composition of materials, the presence of toxic or hazardous content, condition assessment, and reuse and recycling potential of a product. To bridge these gaps, an MP framework is proposed, leveraging the capabilities of enabling digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and scanning systems, as well as the supportive knowledge of human actors.
By utilizing this framework, further research and innovation in data provision can be supported, narrowing, slowing, closing, and regenerating the circular loops. The aim is to facilitate the transition towards a more sustainable and circular economy model.
Unlocking the circular economy potential through digital passports for existing buildings has significant implications. This approach allows for better tracking and management of resources, materials, and products throughout their lifecycle. It facilitates the identification of opportunities for reuse, recycling, and responsible disposal, reducing waste and environmental impact.
The integration of digital passports within the building sector can also lead to improved transparency and trust among stakeholders. It enables better decision-making regarding maintenance, renovations, and demolitions, considering factors such as the environmental impact and sustainability of materials used.
Additionally, the adoption of digital passports for existing buildings aligns with the European Union’s circular economy objectives, promoting resource efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and fostering sustainable economic growth.
However, challenges and barriers to implementation remain. These include the need for standardized data formats and protocols, ensuring data privacy and security, and securing the necessary resources for widespread adoption. Overcoming these challenges will require collaboration and cooperation among various stakeholders, including policymakers, building owners, developers, and technology providers.
In conclusion, digital passports hold great promise in unlocking the circular economy potential of existing buildings. By addressing the data gaps through an MP framework that combines digital technologies and human knowledge, the transition towards a more sustainable future can be expedited. With the implementation of digital passports, the building sector can contribute significantly to achieving the circular economy goals set by the European Union, creating a more prosperous and environmentally-friendly future.
