PhD thesis defence by Inês Lameiras Azevedo
This thesis examines the circular economy theory and its potential application in the housing sector. Housing crises experienced worldwide demand solutions that are both ecological and social in nature. An often overlooked strength of the circular economy is its capacity to integrate these two dimensions. Ultimately, this thesis argues that by truly engaging with the circular economy theory – that is, by going beyond superficial understandings – one can realistically expect it to provide some answers to the housing crises and address some of capitalism’s most pressing challenges. I argue that states can steer markets and bring circularity into housing through different regulatory tools and techniques, effectively making homes more sustainable, affordable, and equitable.
Structurally, the thesis departs from a macro-level account of the circular economy theory and housing dynamics, conducted in Part One, to a detailed, micro-level analysis of the regulatory details necessary to implement a circular economy in housing in Part Two. Specifically, the thesis focuses on two case studies: the housing construction sector in California, and that of the Netherlands. Based on regulatory analysis and extensive fieldwork, I examined the housing system in these two case studies by way of an organic approach. That is, I considered housing through its entire lifecycle, from its conceptualisation and construction to its use and eventual ‘death’.
Overall, this thesis proposes a more comprehensive definition of the circular economy, highlights the structural challenges posed by capitalism in realising circularity, and identifies particular problems that emerge from trying to regulate circularity into the housing construction industry. Finally, by drawing on regulatory studies, it suggests pathways to overcome these hindrances and to better code circularity into new housing development.
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