Integrating Circular Economy Principles into Industrialized Façade Renovation Systems

Abstract

This study investigates how circular economy principles can be integrated into industrialized building envelope renovation systems to reduce environmental impacts and support the EU’s climate neutrality targets. In the context of a real-world façade renovation scenario, a multi-KPI methodology is applied to assess resource efficiency and sustainability across four European demonstration buildings. The approach combines the hierarchical alignment of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) - particularly Global Warming Potential (GWP), reuse, recycling, and biobased content—with decision-making analyses that link material choices to quantifiable environmental effects. An assembly-level assessments support transparency in design decisions and highlight the influence of stakeholder engagement, regulatory constraints, and economic considerations. Results show significant variability in GWP across façade systems, largely driven by structural materials such as steel and aluminium, while biobased insulation contributes notable carbon reductions. The comparison of the façade renovation solutions with alternative material strategies demonstrates the potential for lower-carbon renovation systems through increased use of timber structures, biobased composites, and recycled materials. The study concludes that early integration of sustainability expertise and KPI-driven design processes is essential to achieving resource-efficient, low-carbon renovation outcomes, providing a practical roadmap for advancing circularity in the built environment.