BIOLOOP

The construction sector accounts for 38% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Switzerland's goal of achieving net-zero carbon by 2050 will therefore significantly impact this industry. To reach net-zero, it's imperative to minimize emissions while also maintaining or even increasing the carbon sink effect of our natural resources. This mechanism is effective if the sequestered carbon is stored for a long period, preferably permanently. Specifically, the use of plant-based materials, which have a capacity for biogenic carbon sequestration, will help store carbon over the lifespan of buildings. In this context, integrating bio-sourced materials with short and local supply chains is essential to guide the sector towards net-zero.

High-potential bio-sourced materials are identified and evaluated. The project proposes to establish a model of the building stock to analyze the long-term evolution of parameters influencing emissions (renovation rates, new constructions, lifespans, etc.). The model will integrate dynamic life cycle analysis to include emission temporality and various end-of-life scenarios for materials. Archetypes of bio-sourced construction systems are defined for new constructions and renovations. Applying these archetypes to the model of the building stock, its renovation, and growth will assess the potential carbon storage in the building stock as well as a future material demand. Finally, this demand will be compared with current and projected production and transformation capacities to analyze the potential coverage rate of this future material demand and the capacity of short chains to supply bio-sourced materials for carbon storage in the construction sector.

The results of this project will illustrate the construction market of tomorrow and identify high-potential construction techniques and materials for industry professionals. Furthermore, the work will inform policymakers on setting minimum thresholds for bio-sourced materials or carbon storage in constructions.