Circular processes and cultural identity for the built environment: roots and future scenarios in the southern Mediterranean

Abstract

The local sourcing of building materials is often cited as a key factor in the environmental sustainability of buildings, particularly with regard to limiting the impact of transport. However, their use is currently limited by inadequate technology and production chains, as well as a lack of connection with current socio-economic and cultural conditions. Leveraging circular processes and cultural identity focused on the specific characteristics of a place can help circumvent the current production niche by applying a multidimensional, multiscalar approach that integrates material aspects (product technologies) with immaterial ones (process technologies). This approach is consistent with a broad conception of building quality as the integrated result of different factors observable at different scales. At the macro scale, technological and productive chains must be considered, and a new integrated model of production, distribution and consumption must be proposed to promote the sustainable development of the construction sector. Particular attention should be given to resources linked to the bioeconomy, such as the valorisation of agricultural, livestock and fish farming waste, and renewable raw materials of biological origin. At micro and medium scales, locally available materials must be tested to verify their technical suitability.