In Conversation: Circular Construction 2.0

Circular Construction 2.0 – Impulses for the Building Transition

What does construction look like when we stop wasting materials and instead keep them in a loop? This was exactly the topic we discussed on 22 July at our event at the RE:THINKING Pop-up Space in Stuttgart – hosted in collaboration with the Stuttgart University and Science Region Association and the Stuttgart Regional Economic Development Agency.

Our guests – including Maria Hirnsperger (Partner, Behnisch Architekten Munich), Robert Böker (WoodenValley gGmbH), PD Dr.-Ing. Matthias Frese (KIT Karlsruhe), and Prof. Dr. Michael Braungart (EPEA International Environmental Research GmbH) – shared their personal journeys towards circular construction in conversations with Dr. Christine Lemaitre and Dr. Anna Braune. They provided fascinating insights into their experiences and highlighted the technical, social, and economic challenges on the path to a circular economy in construction – and how many of these challenges are already solvable today.

Practical approaches demonstrated that circular construction is not a vision of the future; in many places, it is already a reality. New technologies, digital tools, and increased awareness in both education and practice play a central role. The responsibility of the established construction industry was also discussed – and why a holistic sustainability approach is essential.
Other topics of the evening included material selection, testing procedures for reused components, and necessary changes to standards and regulations.

In conclusion, Jan Kohlmeyer, Head of the Climate Protection Department at the City of Stuttgart, summarised the key points and provided an up-to-date insight into the city’s sustainability strategy.

The takeaway: An evening full of practical impulses and inspiration for everyone wanting to actively shape the building transition.

Our goal is to share knowledge, provide guidance, and connect people – so that ideas can turn into concrete steps for sustainable construction. The content will soon be available as Knowledge Nuggets – also for those who could not attend in person.

Many thanks to everyone who took part, contributing to an inspiring dialogue and a wealth of new insights!

💡 Circular Construction 2.0
📅 Tuesday, 22 July 2025
🕑 16:00–19:30
📍 RE:THINKING Pop-up Space, Königstraße 1a, 70173 Stuttgart