A Life Cycle Analysis Based Framework to Promote Circular Economy in the Building Sector

Abstract

Buildings are resource intensive as they need large amounts of natural resources thereby resulting in resource depletion as well as corresponding environmental emissions. In addition, the material waste generated by the demolition of buildings has severe environmental impacts. Circular economy is a concept that is successfully implemented in various sectors to promote recycling of key materials, and life cycle analysis is a useful technique employed for calculating the environmental implications of various processes. However, there are very few approaches that analyze the life cycle impacts and circularity potential of materials used in the building industry. Therefore, in this study, different strategies promoting circularity in building construction are discussed, and the environmental impacts of natural materials and recycled materials as constituents of concrete are compared in the view of life cycle thinking. Open LCA software is used for impact assessment and eco-invent database is used in association with it for modelling circular economy parameters. The LCIA method selected is eco-indicator 99 which considers the major impact factors such as ecosystem quality, human health and resources. Overall, processes are defined for exploring various recycling strategies, and corresponding environmental performances are evaluated. The results highlight the advantages of implementing circular economy in the construction sector. This approach shall aid material selection for building construction aiming at sustainable development, and encourage bringing a paradigm shift towards circular economy, with builders, designers and consumers.