Assessing and enhancing the circularity and sustainability of emergency hospital shelters

Abstract

Leading humanitarian organisations strive to enhance the sustainability of their aid to avoid negative impacts on the environment, economy, and society, particularly in low-resource areas. This study explores how the circularity and sustainability of emergency hospital shelters can be assessed using literature, expert interviews, co-creation and design sessions, and pilot testing. The approach combines a qualitative circularity checklist with a quantitative environmental impact assessment, providing valuable input for informed decision-making during procurement and design. The findings reveal that existing buildings are commonly repurposed before importing emergency hospital shelters—finite virgin materials are primarily used for the production of new shelters—and there is a lack of data with which to reflect on end-of-life scenarios. The study recommends enhanced monitoring of the shelter lifecycle through data collection as an input for continuous improvement procedures of design and supply. Crucial are extended stakeholder responsibilities for the entire lifecycle and sector-wide adoption of circularity and sustainability ambitions, mainstreaming approaches and showcasing benefits.