Foundations of Circular Economy in Built Environments

As urbanization accelerates, the traditional linear "take-make-dispose" model in construction is no longer viable. The built environment requires a profound shift toward sustainability and resource efficiency. This course introduces you to the core principles of the circular economy and how they actively reshape modern architecture, urban planning, and construction. You will explore how to transition from wasteful practices to regenerative systems that prioritize adaptive reuse, closed-loop supply chains, and long-term ecological balance. What you'll learn: - Understand the fundamental differences between linear and circular economic models. - Apply circular design principles to building materials, product lifecycles, and construction methods. - Explore modern sustainability concepts like material passports and basic lifecycle assessment (LCA). - Analyze strategies for adaptive reuse and designing buildings for future disassembly. - Evaluate how circularity scales from individual building projects to broader urban and regional planning. - Recognize the role of current ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks in driving sustainable development. The curriculum begins with essential terminology and foundational concepts before moving into practical applications across different scales—from individual building components to entire metropolitan strategies. You will read through clear explanations and structured examples to build a solid theoretical framework. Designed entirely for beginners, this text-based course requires no prior experience in architecture, engineering, or urban planning. Start reading today to build your knowledge of sustainable design and circular economy practices.