In the heart of Türkiye, a groundbreaking study is reshaping our understanding of how architects perceive and engage with the circular economy (CE) in the built environment. Led by Zeynep Melis Oğuz from Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, Faculty of Architecture, this research delves into the knowledge and attitudes of architects towards CE principles, offering insights that could revolutionize sustainable construction practices.
The circular economy model is not just a buzzword; it’s a lifeline for our planet, aiming to minimize waste and make the most of resources. But how well do architects, the masterminds behind our buildings, understand and embrace this concept? Oğuz’s study, published in the Journal of Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies, sheds light on this very question.
The findings are both enlightening and challenging. Architects in Türkiye, it seems, are enthusiastic about the circular economy. They exhibit a high level of positive attitude towards CE, recognizing its potential to create a more sustainable future. However, there’s a significant gap in their knowledge about CE principles and strategies. This knowledge gap is particularly pronounced among architects with undergraduate education, highlighting a critical area for improvement.
Oğuz explains, “The study found that as architects’ knowledge of CE increases, their attitude toward CE becomes more positive. This suggests that enhancing CE knowledge could significantly boost architects’ commitment to sustainable practices.”
But why does this matter, especially for the energy sector? The built environment is a major energy consumer, and the circular economy offers a pathway to reduce this consumption. By designing buildings that are energy-efficient, use recycled materials, and can be easily adapted or dismantled, architects can play a pivotal role in creating a more sustainable energy future.
The study also revealed that architects’ work experience and area of practice significantly influence their CE awareness. This means that continuous learning and specialization could be key to bridging the knowledge gap. Universities, local authorities, NGOs, and other construction professionals can use these findings to assess the current state of architects’ CE awareness and develop targeted training programs.
So, what does the future hold? This research suggests that the understanding of CE among architects in Türkiye could be substantially improved. By enhancing CE knowledge, particularly among architects with a bachelor’s degree, we could see a significant shift towards more sustainable construction practices. This could have profound implications for the energy sector, paving the way for a more sustainable and energy-efficient built environment.
As Oğuz puts it, “This study sheds light on an underexplored area in the construction industry in Türkiye. It contributes to the CE literature in Türkiye by providing comprehensive information on architects’ awareness of CE in the built environment.” And it’s not just about Türkiye. The insights from this study could resonate globally, inspiring architects worldwide to embrace the circular economy and drive sustainable change.