Paris,
France
Why is this important?
The building sector generates 23% of GHG emissions in France, making it a major source of emissions. The embodied phase of a building's life cycle, which can account for 15-40% of its total GHG emissions over a lifespan of 50-60 years, is a significant contributor. Construction waste also accounts for 80% of total waste production in France. Reuse of construction materials represents less than 1% of the market due to the complexity and cost of circular systems. Circular renovation actions, such as extending the lifespan of existing buildings and increasing their usage intensity, are crucial for reducing embodied emissions. These actions decrease the demand for new construction, which consumes more materials and energy than renovating existing structures.
Why does this project need financial support?
Financial support through carbon credits is essential for Cycle Up to create value-added services for its ecosystem. The funding will help overcome barriers to the adoption of circular economy practices in the private sector, particularly in domestic residences. This support will enable Cycle Up to improve the reuse of building materials, reducing GHG emissions and promoting sustainable construction practices. Thanks to carbon credits, Cycle Up is opening several reconditioning second-hand materials workshops in France, aiming to multiply the project impact threefold.
What is unique with this project?
Cycle Up is a mission-driven and ESS company ("Entreprise à mission" and "Entreprise Sociale et Solidaire") offering jobs through "Chantiers de réinsertion," meaning supporting people to reintegrate society through work.