Barriers and enablers of circular economy in construction: a multi-system perspective towards the development of a practical framework

Growing environmental concerns and the threat of resource scarcity have heightened interest in the Circular Economy (CE) concept over the last decade. Nonetheless, implementation of CE practice within the built environment has taken a slower pace in comparison with other industries. A clear understanding of systemic and multilevel aspects of CE, especially in relation to barriers that hinder practical implementation, appears to be lacking within the sector. In light of this, the study aims to examine the existing body of knowledge to elucidate, from a systemic perspective, CE barriers across various levels in construction. To achieve this purpose, a scientometric analysis is used to examine 581 bibliometric-searched filtered articles on CE implementation barriers in construction. Key issues, drivers and potential resolutions are explained using content analysis of specific pre-determined articles. The study finds that critical system levels of CE implementation (micro, meso, and macro levels) are interrelated. However, barriers and drivers at each individual level may differ. Additionally, this paper categorises key barriers to implementing CE-aligned strategies into five main themes, namely: definition and theory misconception, political and legislative, social and cultural, financial and economic, and technological barriers. Based on these, four cross-cutting enablers are established to drive the transition from linear to circular economy in construction. The findings of this study highlight deficiencies and challenges in current research while providing a path for future studies. It provides a convenient point of reference for practitioners, policy makers, and research and development (R&D) institutions on CE implementation within the industry. Lastly, the study raises public awareness on CE barriers and guides the AEC sector to develop intellectual capital to overcome them.

Automated summary

This study examines the barriers of implementing the Circular Economy (CE) concept in the construction industry through a systematic analysis of existing knowledge. The findings reveal that different levels of CE implementation are interrelated but may have different barriers and drivers. Five main themes of barriers are identified, and four cross-cutting enablers are proposed to drive the transition to a circular economy. This study serves as a valuable reference for practitioners, policymakers, and research institutions and raises awareness of CE barriers in the construction sector.