Barcelona is preparing to take a bold step towards urban sustainability with the announcement of Spain’s first “Ecodistrict”, to be built on the site of the former Mercedes-Benz factory.
This visionary project promises not only to transform a disused industrial site into an ecologically advanced neighborhood, but also seeks to do so in an innovative way: using recycled materials from demolition debris.
The La Mercedes site, where the iconic Mercedes-Benz automaker’s facilities once stood, is being prepared for an ecological renaissance.
This land, which previously witnessed automotive production, will become a sustainable and environmentally friendly space that will accommodate thousands of residents, employees and students.
The project, announced as the first “Ecodistrict” in Spain, represents a revolutionary approach to urban development. The construction company Conren Tramway, owner of the plot, is leading this initiative that is expected to last from 2025 to 2029, with approval pending from the Generalitat.
In addition, La Mercedes has become one of five projects selected to participate in a European project that will test the reuse of construction waste.
Ecodistrict in Barcelona for the use of recycled material
One of the most outstanding features of this pioneering project is the use of recycled materials, specifically demolition debris, in the construction of the new ecological district.
The intention is that existing buildings, which have no historical value, will be demolished and the waste generated will become an essential resource for new construction.
The pilot project, which will run for four years, is an international collaboration involving research centers from eight countries, with the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) leading the way.
The UPC will be responsible for evaluating and developing new approaches to the reuse of construction waste, creating a database of materials and construction elements that can be recycled in future projects.
Ecodistrict: more than buildings
The future “Ecodistrict” of La Mercedes is not only about eco-conscious buildings. It also focuses on sustainable mobility and energy efficiency. The plan provides for the absence of vehicular traffic within the district, promoting the use of alternative transportation and reducing air pollution.
In addition, advanced water, electricity and cooling saving systems will be incorporated to ensure sustainable resource management. This holistic approach to sustainability will be a model for future projects.
The La Mercedes project is not alone in its search for sustainable and innovative solutions. Similar projects exploring material reuse and sustainable construction are underway in cities such as Paris, Belgrade, Vesterålen (Norway) and Prague.
