Why are we demolishing homes during a housing crisis? | Olaf Grawert

Why are we demolishing homes during a housing crisis? | Olaf Grawert

From TED Business by TED

March 9, 2026 · 16 min

About this episode

Olaf Grawert discusses the implications of home demolition during a housing crisis and presents sustainable alternatives.

Every minute somewhere in Europe, a house is demolished — along with the memories and sense of community it holds, says architect Olaf Grawert. Exposing the human and environmental cost of demolition for profit, he highlights a bold alternative that could address the growing housing crisis. Learn how rethinking the value of the buildings we already have could create sustainable, affordable homes for millions and reshape the future of cities. After Modupe reflects on why value and profit are not the same and why housing is a necessity. Learn more about our flagship conference happening this April at  attend.ted.com/podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People in this episode

Host: Modupe

Guest: Olaf Grawert

Topics covered

  • housing crisis
  • demolition
  • sustainability
  • community
  • affordable homes

Keywords

  • housing crisis
  • demolition
  • sustainability
  • affordable homes
  • community

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: TED

Places: Europe

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