Europe’s construction sector is central to the green transition, as buildings account for a large share of energy use, material demand, and carbon emissions. Moving toward a circular economy, where resources are reused and buildings are adapted rather than demolished, is a crucial step in reducing environmental impact and building resilience.
The industry also provides work for around 11 million people across Europe, which makes the transition a social as well as an environmental priority. A just approach ensures that climate goals are matched with fairness, safety, and opportunities for reskilling, so that progress strengthens both the sector and the workers who build and maintain our cities.
The new Circular Buildings Coalition (CBC) briefing highlights two pathways with significant social impact. Build with the Right Materials promotes recycled and bio-based resources, creating demand for roles in recovery, testing, certification, and digital tracking, while Build Nothing focuses on renovation and adaptive reuse, extending the life of existing buildings and generating work in repair and energy upgrades.
These approaches can create employment and foster innovation, but they also bring challenges. Fragmented subcontracting chains, weak policy signals, limited skills, and financial risks must be addressed to ensure that circular practices can scale across Europe’s construction sector.
To move forward, the CBC outlines three priorities: EU-wide standards that embed social safeguards, stronger dialogue between governments, employers, and trade unions, and sustained investment in skills and occupational health. Examples from Austria’s BauKarussell and Dublin City Council’s renovation programme show how circular construction can deliver environmental benefits while creating inclusive opportunities and safer jobs, building a resilient future for Europe.