The lecture will discuss drivers of change in the construction industry as we progress further into the 21 st century. The materials aspect of construction in general, and the major role the industry plays in global consumption trends will be presented. These will be followed by a working definition of circular economy and the specific need for in the construction industry supported by examples. Methods for dematerialization and the ever more important role information technologies play in the industry will be explored. The talk will be concluded with recommended steps and solutions together with other opportunities to reduce the environmental and economic impact of the industry.

Biography:

Dr. Aktaş completed his undergraduate and graduate studies within the Department of Civil Engineering at Middle East Technical University. He continued his doctoral studies at University of Pittsburgh where he graduated from in 2011. Soon after, he joined University of New Haven as an Assistant Professor within the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and coordinated the Sustainability Studies program during his time there. In 2018, he was promoted to Associate Professor and granted tenure at the University. Later, he returned to Turkiye and joined TED University where he currently teaches. Dr. Aktaş’s expertise lies in sustainable design. He has authored many publications on resiliency of infrastructure, building energy efficiency, renewable energy systems integrated with the built environment, life cycle assessment, and Design for Environment. He has taught numerous courses on sustainability both in Turkiye and in the U.S.