HIBISCUS · HIgh-performance circular and BIo-baSed materials in the Construction and bUilding Sector

The construction sector is the second largest industrial ecosystem in the EU in economic terms, generating 11,5% of the EU Gross Value Added in 2023. However, while creating economic value, the highly polluting materials derived from petroleum also contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for up to 37% of global operational energy and process-related CO2 emissions. This represents a serious challenge and calls for an urgent transition towards a circular economy. Despite a change taking place in the consumption and production of materials, the sector is facing limits in terms of price, efficiency of materials and social acceptability. The HIBISCUS project aims to revolutionize the building envelope sector by replacing fossil based materials with innovative bio-based alternatives to enhance sustainability, economic viability, and regulatory compliance while reducing the industry's carbon footprint. Coordinated by SOPREMA and 11 partners across Europe, the project uses a thorough methodology to provide new biobased materials for the building envelope thanks to the conversion of several feedstock sources. Partners will demonstrate at pilot scale the feasibility of scaling-up biobased materials while meeting the market standards and the industry’s needs. The project expects to create five bio-based construction materials - (2) waterproofing, (2) insulation and (1) carpentry solutions - with an average of 80% bio-based components and a 25% improved environmental profile. Within five years post-project, HIBISCUS aims to ensure that all materials meet CE-marking standards and attain a 10% market share for bio-based materials. Ultimately, HIBISCUS seeks to consolidate the EU position at the forefront of sustainable construction practices, promoting circular economy principles and supporting more resilient buildings through interdisciplinary research and collaboration.