All it takes is an address
The tool was developed by the Institute of Architectural Technology at Graz University of Technology in collaboration with its project partner, Revitalyze. The idea behind it is simple: users enter an address and receive an estimate of the materials used in that building.
To do this, the system combines publicly available geodata with information on different building types. An algorithm determines, amongst other things, a building’s floor area, perimeter and height, and classifies it as one of 154 so-called building archetypes. Factors such as the year of construction, typical materials and any previous alterations are taken into account.
Old buildings become sources of raw materials
This can be particularly important when buildings are being renovated or demolished. After all, many of the materials used in construction do not necessarily have to end up as waste. Timber beams, windows or other building components may be reused, whilst mineral-based building materials can be recycled.
Demolition companies could thus estimate at an early stage what materials they will be dealing with. Manufacturers could plan more effectively how much recycled material will be available in future. And towns and local authorities could gain an overview of which raw materials lie dormant within their building stock.
Why we all stand to benefit
The benefits to society thus extend far beyond the construction industry. If existing materials are used for longer and recycled in a more targeted manner, fewer new raw materials need to be extracted and transported. This can conserve resources, reduce emissions and prevent waste. At the same time, better planning can help to reduce costs and strengthen regional circular economies.
The system is not yet equally accurate for all materials. There is room for improvement, particularly with plastics or complex metal structures. At city or regional level, however, the tool could already provide valuable insights today and help predict future building material flows.
#brilliant, when our buildings are seen not just as structures, but as valuable reservoirs of raw materials for the future.
