The role of data when implementing circular strategies in the built environment: A literature review

Abstract

Adopting a circular economy (CE) in the built environment contributes to lower the consumption of natural resources, limiting waste generation, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Effective data management is critical during the implementation of circular strategies; however, the academic literature does not explicitly address the subject, and a shared approach to data governance is still lacking. This study contributes to filling this gap by providing a holistic perspective to the state-of-the-art literature to identify the role of data in the implementation of CE strategies. The findings were obtained through the review of 40 articles. It was found that the literature can be classified into four interrelated thematic groups: The need for information and data, information and data management, the digitalisation of data and information, and digital tools and technologies. The study identifies the highlights for each thematic group and suggests opportunities to improve circularity through the effective use of data. It is important to recognize that accessible, open, and standardised information about construction products can accelerate the implementation of circular strategies in a project, but it is critical to ensure effective data management and interoperability throughout the asset life cycle. Therefore, data management tools and data templates need to be further investigated and adopted in the industry. Digital technologies can support data management and interoperability and, consequently, increase the possibility of successful CE implementation. Finally, future research should investigate a strategic approach to data exploitation that can enhance circularity in the built environment.