DECORATOR Symposium

Date: 01. 10. 2024 at 09:00

The activity is designed as a collective analysis of the present state of the art of circular of the building and art sector under the lenses of circular economy, with gaps and challenges, followed by a critical reflection about the perspectives to prepare the future. The symposium will bring together key actors from the research, technological, business and policy making communities in a context of horizontal knowledge sharing. The conversation will be guided by the identification of “gaps of circularity” functional to the design of new possible configuration of the business model incorporating DECORATOR principles.

Circular economy and the Building Sector

The circular economy has become a critical paradigm for rethinking how resources are used and managed, particularly in resource-intensive sectors such as the building industry. This approach contrasts with the traditional linear economy, where resources are extracted, used, and disposed of. In the building sector, circular economy practices aim to reduce waste, extend the life-cycle of materials, and minimize environmental impact. Adaptive reuse, a key strategy within the circular economy, has gained increasing attention as a way to retrofit and re-purpose existing structures, reducing the need for new construction and the consumption of raw materials. The circular economy in the building sector is emerging as a critical model for addressing resource efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and fostering sustainable economic growth. The building sector is one of the largest consumers of raw materials globally, accounting for approximately 40% of global material use and 30% of all waste generated in Europe alone (European Commission, 2020). A shift towards a circular economy in this sector can address many of these challenges by creating closed-loop systems where materials are reused, recycled, or repurposed at the end of their lifecycle. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a leader in circular economy research, emphasizes the potential of the circular economy to decouple growth from resource use by designing out waste and pollution, keeping materials in use, and regenerating natural systems (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2019).

The Decorator Project

The DECORATOR project (Interreg Danube) aims to catalyze the circular transformation of the built environment in the Danube Region (DR) by conceiving the region as a real-life laboratory for exploring transformative practices promoted by the project. It focuses on circularity as a holistic challenge, encompassing ecological, technical, socio-cultural, and economic aspects. The project aligns with the New European Bauhaus initiative by pursuing circularity and the transition to a sustainable future as an aesthetic rather than solely a technological project. In approaching advanced technologies, it understands them as enablers to achieve sectoral transformation.

Nova Gorica and Gorizia

Gorizia (Italy) and Nova Gorica (Slovenia) are unique twin cities, situated on either side of the Italy Slovenia border, offering a fascinating blend of cultures, history, and contemporary innovation. These cities, historically divided, now represent a symbol of European unity and cross-border collaboration, making them an ideal location for a symposium. The cities’ shared cultural heritage, combined with their distinct urban and natural landscapes, provides an inspiring backdrop for discussions on topics such as cultural exchange, urban regeneration, and European integration. Moreover, Nova Gorica and Gorizia are set to jointly hold the title of European Capital of Culture in 2025, further emphasizing their commitment to cultural development and collaboration. This recognition highlights their importance as emerging cultural hubs, with a focus on sustainable urban development, historical preservation, and fostering artistic innovation. Hosting a symposium in these cities would not only allow participants to engage in meaningful dialogue but also to witness firsthand the cities' efforts to promote culture as a driver for economic and social renewal.

AGENDA