Buildings and the construction sector account for around 50% of raw material consumption in Europe, as well as a significant proportion of waste and emissions. Existing policies aimed at the sustainable transformation of the sector rarely combine supply- and demand-side approaches and do not fully exploit the potential of the circular economy. The DECON project addresses this gap by analysing the coherence of climate and CEE policies in Denmark, Poland and Ukraine, and by identifying pathways for the effective decarbonisation of the sector.

The aim of the project is to strengthen the links between climate policy and the circular economy in the construction sector, and to identify tools that support decarbonisation throughout the life cycle of materials and buildings.

As part of this project, we are investigating the links between climate policy and circular economy approaches in the construction and building materials sector in Denmark, Poland and Ukraine. We identify barriers, regulatory gaps and the level of implementation of circular solutions. We also analyse market practices and their alignment with public policies, and develop a set of recommendations for decision-makers.

The project has resulted in a comprehensive comparative analysis of three countries, highlighting the key challenges and opportunities for implementing the circular economy and climate protection in the construction sector. The recommendations developed concern the integration of circular solutions – such as the reuse of materials or the use of low-carbon alternatives – into national and EU policies, supporting the development of more sustainable solutions.

The project helps to improve policy coherence and accelerate the construction sector’s transition towards climate neutrality through more efficient use of resources and a reduction in emissions.

Reform Institute is responsible for carrying out analytical and research work, preparing an analysis for Poland, and integrating data and research findings from its partners in Denmark and Ukraine: CONCITO and ReThink.

Project is funded by the Nordic Council of Ministers.