Sustainable building is focus of Westport Civic Trust event

Westport Civic Trust will host its next lecture on Tuesday, February 18, at 8pm in the Plaza Hotel (Walnut Room). 

Dr John Scahill will talk about ‘Sustainable building and the circular economy’. 

Dr Scahill lives in Westport and is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Building and Civil Engineering at the Galway-Mayo School of Engineering at Atlantic Technological University. He lectures on undergraduate and post-graduate programmes on the circular economy, climate resilience and education for sustainability.

Recent extreme weather events such as Storm Eowyn and the myriad challenges of the housing crisis bring into sharp focus the need and importance of sustainable building practices. But what does 'sustainable building' actually mean, and how can a circular economy help address the wide range of issues we face, such as climate change, resource depletion, and economic challenges? 

This lecture will take a closer look at the problems in the construction industry, particularly in relation to how buildings are designed, built, and used. It will also explain the concept of the circular economy - an approach where materials and resources are reused, repaired, or recycled, instead of being wasted. 

By adopting circular practices in construction, we can reduce environmental damage, save resources, and create long-lasting, sustainable buildings. The illustrated talk will provide insights into how these strategies can help us move toward more eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions in the construction of homes and buildings.

Admission is free to members and €5 for non-members.