Circular building and new regulatory scenarios: the possibility of reusing steel components

The circular economy implies new challenges and targets to mitigate the impact of new production cycles by using post-production processes, such as the reuse and repurposing of components in the case of steel, whose high potential is already acknowledged for recycling. The PRIN 2022 research project, titled “Buildings and Circular Economy - Steel from Production to Post-Production - Law and Responsibility Issues” focuses on this operational scenario. In line with the research project and the recent update of the European regulatory framework for the sector, this paper aims to provide a critical assessment of the operational scenarios outlined, particularly with reference to Regulation (EU) 2024/3110 and to CEN/TS 1090-201:2024 which for the first time addresses the reuse of steel structural components. The analysis conducted implied the awareness that CEN/TS 1090-201:2024 requires implementation by the Italian standards body in order to be applied in seismic zones and demonstrated the central role that the CE marking can play in the systematic initiation of a new phase of the circular economy. This will contribute to the reduction of environmental impacts and thanks to the free circulation of reused products, will ensure the development of this new economic model.