What is circular economy in modular construction?

The economy is in a state of flux and the outlook for gross domestic product (GDP) growth, inflation, and the threat of economic recession is somewhat bleak.

Over the last few years, the concept of Circular Economy (CE) has grown in popularity. Just as a reminder, it is an economic model aiming to foster sustainable economic growth, increase a company’s economic value, boost global competitiveness, and achieve sustainable development goals.

We believe that our industry of modular construction is well placed to ride out this transition. Modern methods of construction (which are also called modular buildings and pre-fabrication) are innovative, sustainable, cleaner, and very simply such buildings can be disassembled and reused if required.

So what have Elite Systems been doing – and how can we help meet your own Circular Economy targets?

• Our modular buildings are constructed in highly controlled conditions, meaning the energy used in the manufacturing process is a fraction of what it would be on-site, waste is minimised, and carbon emissions are cut.
• We use FSC approved timber which ensures our materials come from sustainable forests that are managed in an environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable manner.
• In traditional construction, the transport of heavy machinery to and from the site contributes to high greenhouse emissions. As modular construction is only done within a factory setting, these emissions are substantially reduced.
• Reusability – the nature of modular buildings means that they are easy to disassemble and be moved to another site, so unused buildings don’t go to waste.

The greatest impact that organisations have within their buildings comes from heating, electricity and water usage. As our modular buildings offer high thermal performance and meet and exceed regulatory requirements, that impact can be reduced for your organisation.

It’s possible to build in features that will have a positive impact on carbon emissions, from increased insulation to solar panels and triple-glazed windows, we can design and create buildings that not only meet existing building regulations, but that significantly reduce carbon output, and crucially create safe, comfortable and pleasant spaces for studying, treating patients, or working in.

Talk to us and, together, we can contribute towards the circular economy whilst providing the spaces your organisation’s needs.