CircularBuild

In Founder Focus we introduce entrepreneurs and change-makers working on innovative startups, social enterprises and SME’s around Aotearoa New Zealand.

At a glance

Founders: Lizzi Whaley and Anna Johnson

Business: CircularBuild

Founded: 2023

HQ: Auckland

Can you tell us a bit about your business?

CircularBuild is on a mission to transform the design and construction industry by enabling circular building practices and designing out waste. We offer a pioneering digital tool that includes a materials passport system, which details the materials used in commercial fit-outs and guides users on cradle-to-cradle lifecycle methods. Our tool addresses critical issues like waste reduction, material shortages, and environmental impact by providing transparency, facilitating urban mining, and promoting the reuse of existing materials.

New Zealand’s construction and demolition sectors contribute massively to landfill waste, 17,000 tonnes daily in fact. This waste costs New Zealand $358Million annually in waste levies alone – not considering the flow-on costs. At CircularBuild, we’re tackling this problem head-on by creating a tool that empowers designers, architects, landlords, and other key industry members to make informed, sustainable decisions from the very start of a project. By embracing the circular economy, we aim to reduce reliance on virgin materials, drive innovation in resource use, and foster a more sustainable future.

Our tool isn’t just about solving today’s problems—it’s about future-proofing the industry. CircularBuild provides the essential data that’s crucial for sustainable design and construction, making the entire process more transparent, accountable, and environmentally friendly.

What’s the backstory for your business idea?

About five years ago, I, Lizzi, CEO and Owner of Spaceworks Interior Architecture, noticed a shift in the sustainable materials our suppliers were offering. Initially these products came with a higher price tag. But I kept asking, “Why should I pay this premium for a circular product if the person demolishing the space doesn’t know?”. It often felt like the full loop in the circular economy was never being completed. This question ignited our sustainability journey.

Over 24 years and more than 1800 interior fitouts, I calculated that Spaceworks had generated 10,800 tonnes of waste. Recognising our influence in client waste decision-making, I knew we could do better.

This led to CircularBuild, a venture I’m bringing to life with Anna, my cofounder. While I bring industry experience to the table, Anna complements this with her own skill set, driving the innovation and operational aspects.

What programmes, learning or mentoring, or resources have been of assistance so far?

We have worked with Brianne West (founder of many successful businesses but is most commonly known for Ethique). Not only does she do mentoring, but she has an entire (free!) education hub that has incredibly useful resources on how to start an ethical business.
Building a LinkedIn profile with connections that are in the same industry is also a great start. Reaching out to people in this space has led to many introductions, meetings, and collaborations that have really driven our growth.