by Deborah Mesher, Architectural Designer and Breanne Belitski, Toronto Circularity Network
Deborah: What is circularity in the construction industry?
Breanne: Circularity is about utilizing the Earth's finite resources more intelligently. Circularity challenges us to acknowledge the significant impact of materials of construction that have already been produced—materials that have been mined, quarried, cut, transported, and manufactured, often extensively, before being transported yet again. It is sometimes compared to recycling, but it goes beyond that; it's about minimizing waste from the outset and thinking through the full life cycle of materials.
Deborah: What impact can circularity principles have on design?
Breanne: Circularity should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a constraint. Popular home renovation shows often depict complete overhauls, where everything is discarded and started anew. However, by acknowledging the value of the materials already in use—considering the resources and effort embedded in them—we can shift our design approach. This perspective allows us to think about which elements can be preserved, can we reuse the countertops, refinish the cupboards? And when replacement is required, think about how the wood floorboards can be repurposed to maintain their highest value. Embracing circularity not only fosters creativity but in some instances, also offers financial savings.
Deborah: Why is circularity important?
Breanne: Circularity is important because our resources are depleting at an alarming rate. Circularity presents a pathway to mitigate some climate related impacts. By demanding fewer resources, reducing our waste, consuming less, and sometimes even building LESS, we can decrease the harm we inflict.
Deborah: What are the barriers to incorporating circularity into residential construction?
Breanne: There are four barriers: societal trends, individuality, knowledge and perceived costs. Social trends, propelled by popular media such as house-flipping shows, DIY Instagram accounts, and HGTV, advocate for a constant cycle of renewal, pushing "out with the old, in with the new". This perspective has become deeply ingrained, encouraging the belief that our homes should be an absolute reflection of individual selves, often leading to us sending items to the landfill, items that still have notable service life left in them.
While the environmental impact of everyday items like plastic bags is well understood, the consequences of home renovation waste are less recognized, leading to a disconnect from the detrimental effects of the linear consumption model. There are not many designers and contractors who know what circularity IS, let alone the practical skills and related support required to apply circularity to a build.
Deborah: What should designers/architects know about circularity?
Breanne: As opposed to the linear model of consumption (the take - use - waste model), the circular model of consumption is designed to be regenerative by design, aiming to retain as much value as possible from resources, products, and materials. The circular model seeks to create a closed-loop system, where waste is minimized, and resources are reused, recycled, or composted, leading to a more sustainable, eco-friendly approach to consumption and production. It challenges not only designers and architects, but also businesses, consumers, and policymakers to rethink how goods are designed, used, and reused, aiming for a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability.
Deborah: What do you wish homeowners knew about circularity?
Breanne: I wish homeowners knew that their decisions have the power to spur a cultural shift towards more sustainable living practices. By valuing what we already have and considering the lifecycle of our possessions and homes, we can make a profound difference in reducing waste and preserving resources for future generations.
Learn more about Breanne Belitski’s work at the Toronto Circularity Network here.