CHARM is all about circularity in the field of social housing. By actually putting circularity into practise, not only good practices appear and useful advices can be given, but arising questions and doubts can also be mentioned and discussed. We talked about a couple of issues, which irrevocable evolve, in the demonstration exemplars of CHARM partners Paris Habitat, Accord Housing, Woonbedrijf and De Zonnige Kempen.
(Re)use of material and natural resources
We tried and did our best to tackle these issues by talking them through. But we also found out, that some issues take time to solve and more information is needed. It is therefore a real advantage, that we are working together with all kind of organisations, such as: universities, network organisations, (specialised) organisations in circularity, sustainability and material exchange platforms, architects, local authorities, and of course: social housing organisations. The reuse of materials and resources is of course doable, but is sometimes also a challenge. Or simply a question of a complete different mindset or starting point. Take for example one of the demonstration exemplars of Accord. They are going to realise plastic free houses.
Inspiration Day
The second day was Inspiration Day. And it was inspirational indeed. We met and started at Les Canaux. Here, in the 19th arrondisement of Paris, the setting was enriched by some of our sub partners and associated partners. Presentations were given bij Paris City Hall Housing Department (DLH) and Backacia on their partnerschip and material reusing platform. Also, the International Synergies – Industrial Ecology Solutions – and the Vlaamse Confederatie Bouw showed us what their resource matching App and website is about. After lunch, we went to see and explore Paris Habitat’s project Caserne de Reuilly in the 12th arrondisement of Paris. Here, one of the architects, RotorDC and Paris Habitat told us about this enormous and fascinating construction project in the heart of Paris, and the way they manage the reuse of material. In total, the project consists of almost 600 houses, under which: social housing and accommodation for students.
Merci beaucoup
Thanks to all partners and participants for joining these exciting two days in Paris. A special thanks to Paris Habitat, who hosted us perfectly and organised the two-day meeting. Are you also interested in circularity and sustainability in (social) housing projects? Join and follow CHARM!
