Speaker
Description
Transitioning to a circular and low-carbon building sector requires a detailed understanding of the material composition of existing buildings. While mineral materials such as concrete, steel, wood, and glass are well documented, plastics have been largely overlooked despite their growing use since the post-war period. This study presents a structured literature review on the historical evolution, typologies, and applications of plastics in Walloon buildings, highlighting their relevance for circularity and carbon reduction strategies.
The review traces major phases of polymer adoption (1945–2025), from PVC in pipes and joinery to synthetic insulation and polyolefins in the 1990s–2010s, emphasizing the influence of European and regional policies—including the European Green Deal, circular economy directives, and Belgian regulations—on material choices and carbon outcomes. Key plastics (PVC, PE, PP, PU, PS) are classified by applications (insulation, membranes, coatings, joinery, technical networks), with attention to traceability, recyclability, and reuse challenges.
Methodologically, the study combines bibliometric analysis (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar) with institutional sources (SPW, OVAM, Statbel, ADEME). Results indicate that embedded plastic stocks remain largely unquantified, limiting circular and low-carbon strategies. To address this gap, an integrated approach is proposed, combining georeferenced inventories, material typology, and prospective flow modeling. The Borinage area (Mons) serves as a pilot territory to demonstrate how reliable data can support circular strategies and reduce the building sector’s carbon footprint.
This research provides a scientific foundation to inform regional planning, support circular economy policies, and guide evidence-based decisions for a low-carbon built environment.
| If your abstract is not accepted for an oral presentation, would you be interested in presenting it as a poster instead? | Yes |
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| If accepted by the Scientific Board, I agree to have my presentation/poster and abstract published on the Belgian Climate Centre websites and social media. | Yes |
