Manifesto

The Swiss construction sector generates about 74 million tons of waste annually, of which about 17 million tons (19%) is construction material [1]. Of the construction waste generated annually, about 75% is recycled, 20% landfilled, 4% incinerated and only a fraction reused [2].

In order to build sustainably and in a climate-friendly way, we need to focus on the circular economy and view construction as a cycle. Demolition projects play an important role in this, as many of these buildings are veritable treasure troves of reusable elements: Windows, supporting structures, facade cladding, etc. However, most demolition projects are not suitable for recycling.

Cirkla unites the actors of the reuse scene in Switzerland on the basis of this statement and the following values:

1. we must drastically reduce CO2 emissions, limit resource extraction, and reduce our waste production associated with construction projects.

2. recycling our waste will not be enough. In a circular economy, we must implement strategies to reuse materials and building components before they are sent to landfills.

3. we cannot ignore what is already there. By reusing, we enhance existing buildings, as a whole and as parts, as a whole or as individual parts.

4. we take care to build with the awareness of future reuse.

5. we upgrade the construction professions, craftsmanship and local work.

6. we recognize the importance of a variety of actors and strategies, whether they are industrial processes, historical upgrades, or artistic potential.

7. we need to change the architectural and construction process so that reuse can be integrated into the thinking and practice of our professions.

Cirkla's goal is to make reuse visible, to share our experiences, to pass on our knowledge and to initiate the cultural, technical and legal changes necessary for its development.

We call on all players in the construction industry to join us in spreading these values and implementing this manifesto.

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Do you have comments or feedback on our manifesto? Please fill out this form and we will regularly review and update this document in line with our strategy.

[1] FOEN: https://www.bafu.admin.ch/bafu/de/home/themen/abfall/inkuerze.html

[2] Gauch M., Matasci C., Hincapié I., Hör- ler R., Böni H. / 2016 Material and energy resources and environmental impacts of Switzerland's building infrastructure. EMPA, FOEN, Bern.

[3] Ibid

[4] United Nations Environment Programme (2021). 2021 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction: Towards a Zero-emission, Efficient and Resilient Buildings and Construction Sector. Nairobi.