Cross-Fertilization Between Architecture and Agricultural: A Circular Supply Chain

The construction industry in Europe seems to be in a state of decline, actually at a broader level it is a sector in full development. A development to be related to paradigm shifts from linear to circular economy. The latest policies and standards are in fact focused on accelerating such transition. Enterprises are working to change their manufacturing processes, particularly are interested in developing—often in cooperation with research centers—more ecofriendly building materials. In this context, the research project ECOFFI aims at investigating the cross-fertilization opportunities between apparently incompatible sectors—the agrifood and the construction—for manufacturing a new building material. The paper deals with some activities carried out, including experimental and monitoring phases. Finally, results from a life-cycle study based on embodied energy and embodied carbon indicators of samples are even shown.