Within the framework of the European Green Circle project , in which PEDMEDE participates, a highly insightful article was published examining how the use of microcredentials can accelerate the green transformation of the Construction Sector and consequently contribute to the creation of a more sustainable future.
Below are some of the key points highlighted in the article:
The construction sector is at the heart of the green transition, as buildings and infrastructure account for approximately one-third of global energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. Sustainability is no longer an option, but a strategic necessity for the sector’s long-term competitiveness and resilience.
The transition to Net-Zero buildings, the strengthening of climate resilience, and the adoption of the circular economy require new skills. Given that construction and demolition waste (CDW) accounts for more than 35% of total waste generated in the EU, a shift in mindset and practices is critical. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, applying circular economy principles in the built environment could reduce emissions related to building materials by up to 38% by 2050.
In this context, microcredentials represent a flexible and targeted tool for upskilling, aligned with European policies on lifelong learning and the green transition. At the same time, they provide specialised knowledge in areas such as energy efficiency, life-cycle assessment, sustainable materials, and resilience-based design.
Through the Green Circle project, modern and innovative training material based on microcredentials is being developed, creating a practical tool to empower construction professionals and actively supporting the sector’s transition towards a more sustainable, resilient, and circular development model.



