Overcoming Circular Economy Barriers with Smart Construction Technologies

Abstract

Circular economy is an innovative economic model that focuses on sustainability and waste reduction, while smart technologies are transforming the construction industry with their potential to enhance efficiency and productivity. However, the adoption of circular economy practices in the construction industry faces several barriers that need to be addressed. The study aims to identify these barriers and explore what could be the uses of smart technologies such as Building Information Modelling, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Modular Construction, Internet of Things and Mixed Realities can overcome them. The study's objectives include identifying potential barriers to circular economy, identifying potential uses of smart technologies, and developing of a Sankey diagram to facilitate the adoption of circular economy practices. The study employed semi-structured interviews and statistical tests such as RII, Cronbach's alpha, and Wilcoxon One Sample test to analyse the data. The findings indicate that the implementation of smart technologies such as Real Time Data Collection, Traceability of Material, Digital Model for End of Life, Data Checking, Facility Management, Tempered Proof Data, Material Passport Development, Waste Reduction during Production, Monitoring and Controlling, and Visualization can significantly overcome circular economy barriers. The study provides valuable insights for stakeholders in the construction industry to adopt circular economy practices and enhance their sustainability and resilience. Keywords: Circular Economy, BIM, AI, Blockchain, Modular Construction, Internet of Things, Mix Reality, Construction, Waste Reduction, Sustainability