Circuliar economy- Willow Branches

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2425 s1 - Circuliar economy- Willow Branches

This research explores the potential of using willow as a biobased building material by constructing a willow hut to assess its practicality. The project aims to inspire sustainable design on the HZ campus. Key recommendations include using willow wood for seating, creating shade structures, planting willow hedges to boost biodiversity, and involving students in the process to promote hands-on learning about sustainability.

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About this project

Start date:	02/03/2025
Project description:	This research discovers the possibilities for working with willows as biobased building material. The objective is to find out why willows are a good building material (or why not). By making a willow hut the researcher will experience how hard it is to build with willows. Having a willow hut at the HZ could inspire other people to create their own seating area or use this one to sit outside.
Outcomes:	Based on the findings in this study, it is recommended to integrate willows into the design of the seating around the HZ. Specific recommendations are: Use of willow wood for seating furniture: It is advisable to make seating areas, such as benches or chairs, from willow wood or woven willow branches. This not only offers an aesthetic and organic appearance but also contributes to the principle of biobased and sustainable materials. Sustainable garden furniture and shade structures: Consider using willows to create shade structures such as pergolas or canopies, which give the outdoor space the campus a natural appearance while at the same time providing functional benefits for the users of the garden. Promoting biodiversity through willow hedges: Planting willow hedges or using woven willows for partitions can contribute to improving biodiversity on campus. This not only provides visual value, but also strengthens the ecological function of the garden by creating shelters for animals and contributing to air quality. Educational integration: It may be interesting to actively involve students in the design and realization of these biobased elements. This can serve as a learning experience about sustainability, biobased materials, and the benefits of green management.
Commissioned for:

Ingrid de Vries (HZ Green Office (Stakeholder))