Principal investigator: Fernanda Campos da Cruz Rios
University: Drexel University
Industry partner: Advanced Glass & Metal, LLC
Drexel University and Advanced Glass & Metal propose a pioneering project to advance circular economy principles in the built environment by enhancing the sustainability and circularity of prefabricated building envelope products. This initiative aims to reduce resource consumption and waste, drive decarbonization within the construction sector, and position Pennsylvania as a leader in sustainable manufacturing practices. Our proposed method combines design for circularity strategies, circularity assessment, life cycle assessment, and technoeconomic assessment to uncover profitable ways to significantly enhance the circularity of prefabricated building envelope products. Key project outcomes include (1) bolstering Pennsylvania’s manufacturing sector by showcasing innovations in sustainable building materials, (2) educating and preparing a new generation of engineers in circular economy and prefabrication techniques, and (3) mitigating construction waste through the development of building products designed for circularity.