Understanding the perceptions of stakeholders on selective demolition

Abstract

Selective demolition (or deconstruction) is important for achieving efficient circular principles in the construction sector, involving various stakeholders in the whole life cycle of buildings. Several studies have been conducted in recent years about it, but an assessment concerning the stakeholders involved was never undertaken to explore the criteria chosen here. This study aims to explore the practices of companies, but also the perception of individuals regarding this theme. A Portuguese case study was chosen, submitting an online structured questionnaire. As a result, 79 responses were received and an independent variable concerning profession was selected to divide the sample into three groups (architects, engineers, and other staff), to explore whether statistical differences between groups exist. Regarding the activity of companies, 22.8% have never conducted a selective demolition process, and the remaining respondents predominantly do so due to contract specifications. Also, 37.7% of respondents confirmed a need to subcontract, demonstrating dependence on cooperation. Assessing individual perceptions, architects have a more accurate understanding of the concept of selective demolition in the life cycle of buildings, and yet clearly state a greater need for information and awareness regarding the process than engineers and other staff. Architects also identified, most firmly, the need to promote the design of construction materials that better facilitate reuse and recycling. These results are relevant to decision making processes and for effective policy design, to form strategies that boost selective demolition, using a behavioural change approach, identifying a need to reinforce education and awareness, for instance about pre-demolition audits.