Research project
RAW
What are the environmental impacts of widespread integration of bio-based products into the construction industry?
- Duration
- 2024 - 2027
- Contact
- Mingming Hu
- Funding
-
European Innovation Council (EIC) Pathfinder, Grant no. 101161441
- Partners
- University of Innsbruck (UIBK) – Research Institute of Textile Chemistry and Textile Physics
- Luleå University of Technology (LTU) – Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering
- OMTRE – Industry partner specializing in material sourcing and timber reclamation
- Technical University of Denmark (DTU) – Department of Civil and Mechanical Engineering
- Centre for IT and Architecture (CITA) – Royal Danish Academy, Institute of Architecture and Technology
- University of Stuttgart (USTUT) – Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD)
Short abstract
The RAW project proposes a breakthrough resource model for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sector to enter a New Age of Resource Aware Architecture, using natural and reclaimed materials.
Project description
Scientific relevance
As the construction industry seeks to reduce its environmental footprint, there is an urgent need for data-driven decision-making tools that account for long-term material sustainability. By integrating ex-ante sustainability assessment with scenario-based modeling, we provide insights into the potential benefits and challenges of transitioning to circular construction practices.
Material & Methods
We employ a novel methodological framework combining:
- Prospective LCA to quantify the environmental impacts of integrating bio-based materials into AEC.
- Dynamic MFA to track the flow of reclaimed and fast-growing biomaterials across different lifecycle stages.
- Scenario-building workshops and science fiction prototyping to explore alternative futures for sustainable construction.
- Transdisciplinary learning methods to engage stakeholders in co-creating resource management strategies.
Why Leiden University?
Leiden University’s Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) is a leader in industrial ecology, life cycle assessment, and material flow analysis. With expertise in sustainability assessment, CML plays a crucial role in developing robust frameworks for evaluating bio-based materials in AEC.
Follow-up & Social Relevance
CML's findings will inform EU policy, support industry adoption of circular material strategies, and contribute to standardization efforts for bio-based construction materials. The project aligns with the European Green Deal by promoting sustainable alternatives that reduce embodied carbon in the built environment.
