Waldo Galle

Trained as an architectural engineer (Ghent University, 2011) and doctor in engineering (VUB, 2016) Waldo gained expertise on the environmental savings, functional resilience, and financial feasibility of circular building during fundamental and strategic research, and developed policy recommendations and design support tools in applied and consultancy projects. Together with prof. Niels De Temmerman, he develops this expertise further in for example ‘Aterlier Circulair’, a learning network of over 60 designers. Familiar with methods for system analysis, interactive redesign and reflexive monitoring, Waldo explores also more strategic opportunities and hurdles, such as the changing business model of architectural firms, or the absorptive capacity of small and large construction companies. As a member of the VITO Nexus, Waldo applies these methods also in support of various international projects on the circular economy and related regional policies, for example in collaboration with EIT Climate-KIC. Relying on educational experience and training, Waldo gives lectures, guides students, and assists training sessions for scholars and professionals on circular building and sustainability transitions.

Together with prof. Cathy Macharis and Bieke Abelshausen he is also titular of the university-wide elective course ‘Sustainability: an Interdisciplinary Approach’, wherein community-engaged research and learning are put to action. Finally, Waldo sees the transition towards a sustainable built environment – respectful of our planet’s boundaries, for which he cares much – as one of today’s wicked challenges. To tackle such challenges, he aspires fresh research approaches and crosses the boundaries of his lab, into the city. By confronting his results with those of peers in other fields and with the concerns of actors outside the safe academic realm, he truly wants support sustainable development. Therefore, Waldo is always open for new insights and collaborations.