Una sperimentazione progettuale con materiali di scarto tra le vigne delle Langhe. An experimental design approach using waste materials among the Langhe vineyards.

The circular economy paradigm, which is based on the re-introduction and enhancement of underutilized and/or wasted resources, serves as a framework for rethinking new strategies for resource exploitation including at local level. This article illustrates the initial stages of a local-scale design experiment based on circular design principles. The research aims to re-activate a small, abandoned hut in the Langhe territory, once used as a shelter for agricultural tools, by repurposing it for new public functions. Specifically, the study outlines the contextual analysis, the identification of requirements for "circularity" and the development of methodological tools to facilitate a participatory design process in collaboration with local stakeholders. This experimentation provides an opportunity to reflect on key themes in the discourse on the transition towards a circular economy, including the valorization of local waste-resources, the role of universities and research in innovative design processes and the synergy among local actors in promoting of circular economy practices within rural contexts.