Europe gathers in Copenhagen on circular constructio

The Capital Region of Denmark is hosting the conference Accelerated Circular Construction in Europe, which will be held on 7 April at the Confederation of Danish Industry in Copenhagen. Researchers, EU decision-makers, cities, regions and business actors will gather to discuss how circular construction can gain a greater role in upcoming EU legislation.

The conference will also provide the setting for the launch of a joint European call to action, in which several regions and cities urge the EU to make circular construction a central part of the upcoming Circular Economy Act.

The background is increasing pressure on Europe’s raw materials. The construction sector accounts for around 40 percent of the EU’s waste, while demand for sand and gravel is rising.

-“Europe is in the midst of a raw material crisis, which we are also experiencing here at home. If we are to ensure both green transition and economic resilience, we must reuse far more materials in construction. The EU’s upcoming legislation is a crucial opportunity to set a new direction,” says Lars Gaardhøj (Socialdemocrats), Chair of the Regional Council.

The Capital Region of Denmark is cooperating with other European actors to influence EU legislation so that construction is given a clear role.

-“The shortage of raw materials is a real challenge for both urban development and the climate. We need to become much better at reusing surplus soil and other materials instead of extracting new quantities of sand and gravel. This results in less transport, lower CO₂ emissions and a more responsible use of our resources,” says Line Ervolder (The Conservatives), Chair of the Environment and Climate Committee of the Capital Region of Denmark.

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