Taipei City Government planned the Nangang Depot Public Housing project based on circular economy principles, reducing resource consumption and retaining the value of building materials from the perspective of the entire building life cycle to meet the challenges of increasing urban residential demand.
The increase in urban population has led to a higher demand for housing in cities. Nangang Depot Public Housing project attempts to reduce resource consumption during construction and retain the value of building materials through several circular practices.
Using recycled building materials
Nangang Public Housing uses steel rebars made through electric arc furnace processes using recycled steel scraps. Water-quenched blast furnace slag powder and coal-fired power plant fly ash are used to replace 20% of the pozzolanic materials in order to reduce carbon emissions.
Precast construction method and lightweight design
For the stairwells, a precast construction method was adopted to reduce cement waste during on-site casting. Lightweight steel beams, dry wall, and SRC columns were used to utilize building material resources more effectively.
Adopting a modular design for easy maintenance and repairs
Partitions, system furniture, and power systems inside residences all adopt a modular design to facilitate maintenance and repairs when being used.
Leasing furniture and appliances
Washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners, lighting, kitchen appliances, and public space furniture in the public housing unit will be introduced on a rental basis, which makes it easy to replace them when living needs change, and replaced furniture can be passed on to the next user.
Introducing a building material passport
Before demolishing a building, the construction company can use the building material passport to know the location of building materials that are still usable, which can be recovered and repurposed for the next construction project.
Benefits
- The Nangang Depot Public Housing project demonstrates the feasibility of circular building design, aiming to encourage more construction firms to engage in the circular economy. The project is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by September 2024.