As part of the EUSALP Co-Presidency of Austria and Liechtenstein and supported by ARGE ALP, a high-profile panel discussion at SALZ21 explored the pressing challenges and opportunities in circular construction and renovation on March 5, 2025. The session, moderated by circular economy expert Sonja Eser, brought together leading professionals from across the Alpine region to discuss how to transition from theory to practice in sustainable building. The circular economy in construction is also addressed in the BAUHALPS project (Interreg Alpine Space), where we also deal with the New European Bauhaus initiative, which, in addition to the circular economy, also addresses community building and the aesthetics (beauty) characteristic of the Alpine region.
The expert panel featured:
- Clarissa Rhomberg (Architect, Zirkulie, Liechtenstein)
- Simon Pezzutto (Researcher, EURAC Research, South Tyrol)
- Susanne Formanek (RENOWAVE Austria, Grün Statt Grau)
- Anna-Vera Deinhammer (Professor, FH Wien)
From Resource Scarcity to Circular Solutions
With growing concerns over resource scarcity, climate change, and energy crises, circular construction is more relevant than ever. The discussion highlighted regional differences in the implementation of circular practices:
In Liechtenstein, circular construction is gaining momentum, supported by Zirkulie, a platform that connects all relevant stakeholders, from manufacturers to policy makers to the financial actors and promotes reuse.
In South Tyrol, economic and regulatory barriers make recycling more expensive than buying new materials. While circular approaches are still in their infancy, the region has started to integrate reuse in infrastructure projects. South Tyrol is also one of the first regions in the Alpine region to be close to adopting a circular economy strategy that adapts overarching strategies to the regional level.
In Austria, research initiatives and pilot projects demonstrate innovative solutions, but outdated norms and regulations still slow down large-scale implementation. However, thanks to an excellent cooperation with the administration in Vienna, for example, it has been possible to improve the building regulations. “Regulatory sandboxes”, which essentially serve to create exceptions in regulated areas for the purpose of research and development, very quickly lead to new processes.
“We need to rethink the way we build and renovate. Circular construction is not just about materials—it’s about systemic change, collaboration, and long-term economic benefits,” said Clarissa Rhomberg.
Rethinking Future-Proof Buildings
A key theme of the discussion was how to design buildings that future generations will value and continue to use. Anna-Vera Deinhammer emphasized the importance of flexible designs that allow for adaptation and reuse over time.
Economic Viability and Policy Incentives
One of the major hurdles for circular construction remains cost and investment. Susanne Formanek stressed that sustainable construction is often perceived as expensive due to higher initial planning efforts and manual processing of reused materials. However, when considering lifecycle costs, circular approaches can be more economical in the long run.
Public procurement and policy incentives were identified as critical levers for change. Anna-Vera Deinhammer pointed out that the financial sector must shift its focus from short-term costs to long-term impact. Simon Pezzutto added that in South Tyrol, construction accounts for 7% of the region’s GDP and generates nearly a million tons of construction waste annually—highlighting the urgent need for systemic change.
Moving Forward: From Discussion to Action
The panel concluded with a strong call for collaboration across industries, policy, and finance to scale circular construction. The event showcased promising initiatives but also underscored the need for regulatory adaptation, investment, and a shift in mindset.
The transition to circular construction is not just an environmental necessity—it is an economic and social opportunity. Alpine-wide cooperation of the best minds, as supported by EUSALP, can help to generate a greater impact when implemented efficiently.
Have a look at the experts here.
PR Contact:
Land Salzburg, Abteilung 1: Wirtschaft, Tourismus und Gemeinden
Referat 1/01: Regionalentwicklung und EU-Regionalpolitik
Südtirolerplatz 11, A-5010 Salzburg; Tel.: +43 662 8042-3793
