Chapter 15 - Practical strategies for embodying the circular economy concept in the construction sector

Abstract

The construction industry has often been criticized for imposing heavy environmental damage to the planet by intensive resource consumption and waste generation. The concept of Circular Economy (CE) has recently gained momentum among scholars to stress the need to transition towards healthier practices for the environment without compromising the economic progress. The present book chapter will tackle a research gap that was often highlighted by academia and policymakers, which is the lack of practical strategies to implement the concept in structures that are predominantly meant to be demolished when they reach their end-of-life. Globally, the paradigm aims at erasing the waste concept, relying on regenerative sources, and keeping the materials, components, and systems in use at their highest value as long as possible. Even though the CE seems straightforward, translating this thinking to the building level might be a hardship. This study sheds the light on how to integrate the concept of CE in buildings throughout their life stages which, on a bigger scale, will ultimately lead to healthier, efficient and more sustainable cities.