Enabling a circular economy in the built environment sector through blockchain technology

Abstract

The concept of a circular economy (CE) encompasses a comprehensive approach to conscious design and material choice, in addition to keeping products at their utmost utility during production, operation, and reuse cycles through the implementation of closed loops. A blockchain allows for a fast, secure, and accessible information network by providing a decentralized ledger where materials and products can be traced to their sources. This paper investigates blockchain as a promising technology for the facilitation of a CE in the built environment. In support of this, a blockchain model is presented and tested through a synthetic case study to provide a proof of concept as to the feasibility of blockchain as an enabler of a CE in the built environment. With utilization of a blockchain, the current state of each material and component can be tracked, making the proactive planning for their reusability a tangible reality. The findings of the synthetic case study reveal that a blockchain can provide full material and energy traceability, enabling the user to make predictions for the recycling and reuse of materials and goods used in the built environment. Blockchain is shown to be a feasible and novel approach for employing CE concepts in the built environment domain. Additionally, the framework presented here could be beneficial for smart cities and communities, where a blockchain style of information flow can produce synergy with other aspects of a smart and connected community.