Circular Economy, Building Materials and Methods

Abstract

The concept of circular economy is gaining prominence as a sustainable approach to resource management and environmental protection. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, circular economy is "an economy that is restorative and regenerative by design, and which aims to keep products, components, and materials at their highest utility and value at all times". The circular economy model emphasizes the efficient use of resources, reduction of waste, and promotion of closed-loop systems to create a sustainable and resilient economy. This research paper tries to understand the application of circular economy principles in the building design and construction methods in India. The study will analyse the existing manufacturing methods for brick, cement, and steel bars in India, identify market trends and innovative policy and regulatory practices related to circular economy principles. The paper argues the need for service level innovations and market transformation in the building material production process, Eco-labelling policy and whole building Embodied Carbon indicator and informed consumer behaviour as well as environmental product declaration recommendations as the long-term strategies for the circular economy in the building design and construction industry.