Circular Economy: Green revolution in construction
At a time when the urgency of climate change calls for a profound reconsideration of industrial practices, the construction sector is emerging as a key player. The transition to a circular economy is emerging as a promising way to drastically reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2050.
Explore with us the implications of this transition, its challenges and the initiatives shaping the future of more sustainable construction.
Global and French context
The circular economy is emerging as an essential lever for significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions from the construction sector. A recent report drawn up in collaboration between McKinsey & Company and the World Economic Forum highlights the possibility of a 75%, or 4 gigatonne, reduction in CO2 emissions by 2050 through the adoption of circular practices.
The construction sector, which currently accounts for a third of the world’s material consumption and contributes 26% of global carbon dioxide emissions, is at a crossroads in the fight against climate change. Paradoxically, this industry employs 7% of the world’s population and contributes 13% to global economic output.
In France, according to the Haut-Conseil pour le climat, the building sector generated 18% of greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, placing it behind transport, agriculture and industry. Faced with this challenge, the players in the field have a crucial role to play. With this in mind, Thiébault Clément, R&D Director at Bouygues Construction, shares his vision and his group’s commitments.