The afternoon began with a networking lunch, followed by an engaging plenary session:
The programme opened with Circular Construction Expert, Arch. ir Nadja Van Houten, Bureau Bouwtechniek, highlighting the growing role of bio-based materials. These materials not only reduce environmental impact but also improve moisture regulation, indoor comfort, and building health. Scaling these solutions from small residential projects to larger buildings, design strategies must focus on lifespan, value retention, and circular use, supported by new business models.
Another key insight came from Steffan Brouwer who talked about waste-based material solutions produced by UBQ Materials demonstrated that climate-positive, cost-neutral alternatives to conventional plastics are already commercially available and ready for large-scale use in construction.
The academic keynote by Prof. Dr. ir. Stijn Matthys of Ghent University, DuraBUILDmaterials focused on circular concrete strategies, including reduced clinker content, cement-free mixes and the use of fewer virgin aggregates. He also discussed carbon-efficient and carbon-negative production methods, such as carbon capture.
Additionally, the potential of advanced materials such as fibre-reinforced polymers (FRPs) and iron-based shape memory alloys to extend service life, enable deconstruction and reduce embodied carbon was highlighted.
Interactive Brainstorming
Participants explored three key themes:
- Key Challenge: In the context of low-carbon construction, resource efficiency, and circularity, what are the main challenges or opportunities your organization is tackling now or in the near future?
- Strategic Tools & Partnerships: Which tools or collaborations does your organization currently use, or plans to use, to achieve its ambitions in circular and sustainable construction?
- Support from MateriNex: What types of assistance, such as matchmaking, funding guidance, or project facilitation could help our stakeholders start or manage innovation projects.
Curious about the detailed outcomes of the brainstorming session?
Check out the full insights in this document (available soon)
The day concluded with an exclusive guided tour of C-concrete. And Arancha Guisuraga gave an introduction to Proxxima | ExxonMobil to showcase another real world application.
A big thank you to Cordeel Group in Temse for hosting this inspiring CIG-meeting and to all participants for their valuable contributions.
Stay tuned for upcoming MateriNex initiatives and join the conversation on LinkedIn.
Pictures CIG meeting Scaling Circularity: Materials Innovation for Tomorrow’s Built Environment.
