DefinePK

Abstract

Energy security, economics and environmental factors are key drivers toward greater energy efficiency, decarbonisation and circularisation of the building sector.
Bio-based construction provides a potential low carbon and circular strategy toward these aims, as these materials can sequester carbon, are derived from renewable and nontoxic sources and can be re circulated in either technical or bio cycles.
This innovative research undertakes a state of play into select agri-crop biobased construction materials, products and systems across Europe focusing on their supply chain types and dynamics.
The research is based on a multi case study applying a range of mainly qualitative research methods, including desk-based review, semi structured interviews and supplemental field work facilitating a high-level analysis of this sector and its supply chain dynamics.
This novel research presents an overview of the sector and examination of supply chain dynamics in relation to key agricultural, process, manufacture and construction stages.
The findings show an emerging biobased construction sector utilising a range of agri-crops to produce various materials, products and modular systems within diverse and innovative supply chains, with common and distinct features and aspects identified including; crop types and utilisation, processing requirements and methods, transport, handling and storage, construction application, the centrality of certification and testing to access markets and growing interest in carbon profiling and benefits.