Circular homes – An energy-water-materials nexus for community climate engagement and action at grassroots level in the built environment

Abstract

The crucial element of community engagement has been recognised as a success factor in the conception and dispensing of climate solutions, but consists in itself of complex factors to obtain the level of interest and commitment from stakeholders. The complexity of the content and language used to interact with the community is yet another factor needing close attention. The built environment is known for its adverse environmental impact, which can be broadly classified under energy, water and material categories. This paper presents a community-oriented project concept termed as circular homes based on this energy-water-materials nexus, developed using the circular economy principles. The proposed concept was developed over the course of a research-to-action project undertaken in the build-up to COP26. The project aimed at gathering youth perspectives on climate change through an online survey. In light of survey responses as well as literature findings on community engagement and climate action in the built environment, the energy, water and materials components of the circular homes were established and adapted to Mauritius. The outcomes of the workshop are presented, showing the ability of each participant, irrespective of background, to engage with the needed level of understanding of his or her home and propose bespoke climate mitigation and adaptation action. Although applied in the tropical context of Mauritius, the circular home methodology presented can be adapted to incorporate research outcomes and national or regional priorities pertaining to the energy, water and materials dimensions.