Development of a material circularity evaluation framework for building construction projects

Abstract

The construction industry has been criticised for consuming high amounts of materials and generating high volumes of waste while creating several environmental problems. Material circularity refers to the systemic approach of retaining, recovering and reusing materials to minimise waste and reduce the consumption of resources, thereby promoting a sustainable economy. However, there is a notable gap in understanding and research regarding the necessary criteria to evaluate material circularity in building construction. This paper addresses this gap by developing a framework for evaluating material circularity in building construction. This was achieved by identifying the 15 sub-criteria used to evaluate material circularity and their respective significance levels. The material circularity criteria were identified through a literature review and expert interviews. Then, the finalised criteria were used to create a questionnaire survey in which respondents were asked to rate the criteria through pairwise comparisons. The fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) was employed to prioritise these criteria. Subsequently, the material circularity evaluation framework for building construction (M-CEFBC) was developed, revealing that adherence to design for disassembly and adaptability principles and avoidance of hazardous materials are the most significant criteria, accounting for a weightage of 10.4% and 9.2%, respectively. M-CEFBC also links material circularity criteria with the actions described in the ReSOLVE framework. Overall, M-CEFBC aids in selecting appropriate construction materials, methods, and technologies. Further, it helps to increase material circularity while achieving emissions reduction targets, financial benefits, and meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in building construction projects. Additionally, it provides valuable guidance for developing policies that enhance material circularity.