What Would Radical Sustainability Look Like in the Construction Industry?
In this episode of Design Perspectives, host Martin Pauli talks to Wiebke Ahues, partner at LSXSY Architects, about radical sustainability in construction. Together they shed light on the challenges and opportunities of circular construction, the importance of reusing materials and the need for new processes and ways of thinking. Ahues shows why the transformation of the industry must be thought of not only technologically, but also culturally and economically in order to make real progress towards sustainable architecture.
Chapter
(00:00:00) – Introduction and definition of radical sustainability
(00:07:05) – Circular construction and initial challenges
(00:15:17) – Processes and structures for circular construction
(00:25:21) – Industry changes and future prospects
(00:38:36) – Transformation and international comparisons
>> The podcast is held in German.
Key Learnings
Radical thinking and action
The transformation of the construction industry requires radical approaches that go beyond current practice. It is about rethinking processes, expanding competences and bringing in the right talent to achieve the sustainability goals that have been set. Radicalism does not manifest itself in extreme measures, but in a consistent willingness to ‘reinterpret things time and again.’
Potential of the public sector
The public sector is no longer seen as an inert bureaucracy, but as a potential driver of circular transformation. From the municipal level to state infrastructure, the public sector can play an active and formative role in the development of sustainable building practices.
Clear metrics as a navigation tool
The complexity of sustainability and circularity requires clear measurement criteria. Instead of only considering time and cost, climate impact becomes a key design criterion, allowing for more transparent and targeted planning.
Design Perspectives Podcast
How can we use design as a lever for transformation and economic success? We talk about this with personalities from the fields of design, brand management and architecture. They give us insights into how transformation, sustainability and economic success can go hand in hand in a company. Interesting, informative, inspiring.