Scaling up
Despite its promise, scaling up this technology will require changes in waste management, particularly better sorting and processing of demolition debris. It also necessitates updates to building codes, shifting from strict material composition requirements to performance-based standards.
“With this technology, you could imagine cities becoming much more circular than today,” Angulo said. “Materials from demolished infrastructure can be directly used in new building projects.”
“In Brazil, we are already beginning to implement performance-based standards for non-structural building envelopes and floors,” said Angulo. “Updating construction codes is important for allowing innovation in the building sector.”