How to construct in circles? Insights from ecofeminist political economy for circular urban development

This paper explores the critical-emancipatory potential of circular construction approaches in achieving sustainable and just urban futures. Drawing on ecofeminist political economy perspectives, the study argues that meaningful social-ecological transformations require more than mere resource optimization and waste reduction. By problematizing capitalocentric and technoscientific biases, the analysis based on a German case study highlights the need for systemic change that addresses entrenched inequities and power structures. The empirical focus is on a handbook published by the State Institute for Environment Baden-Württemberg (LUBW), which exemplifies current circular construction practices and their limitations. The study concludes that integrating critical feminist perspectives is essential for envisioning and implementing alternative visions of urban circularity that promote social-ecological justice and community well-being. The article is a part of the upcoming special issue "Circular Cities and Regions – Planning for Sustainable Social and Inclusive Communities".