Victar, H C and Waidyasekara, K G A S (2026) Circular economy strategies for minimising construction waste in Sri Lanka: Focus on the preconstruction stage. Construction Innovation, 26(3), pp. 814-842. ISSN 1471-4175
Abstract
Purpose – The concept of Circular Economy (CE) has gained significant traction in addressing the issue of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste, which is generated because of global urbanisation and urban renewal. Therefore, this research aims to explore the applicability of CE strategies to minimise the C&D Waste Management (WM) issues in Sri Lanka considering the preconstruction stage of the building project. Design/methodology/approach – The research adopted a qualitative approach, using three expert interview rounds with the Delphi technique. In each round, 17, 15 and 12 experts were involved. A manual content analysis method was used to analyse the collected data. Findings – Findings uncovered effective strategies in CE to address the 14 issues within C&D WM and its effects on the project management iron triangle in Sri Lanka. Integrating CE strategies within the construction sector to tackle C&D WM issues can significantly contribute to establishing a more sustainable, robust and resource-conscious built environment. By adopting CE strategies such as design for adaptability of existing buildings and design for disassembly, construction projects can optimise the project's timeline, cost and quality factors. Originality/value – This will help to minimise the demand for virgin materials and reduce the volume of waste generated. Using recycled materials also helps close the loop of the materials cycle, thereby contributing to the CE. Also, this research contributes uniquely by offering practical, context-driven solutions that align with Sri Lanka's construction sector.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | circular economy; construction and demolition; issues; preconstruction stage; Sri Lanka; waste management |
| Index terms: | interview, content analysis, strategy, construction and demolition, Delphi technique, waste management, methodology, construction project, traction, construction sector, urbanization, circular economy, design for adaptability, qualitative approach, Sri Lanka, built environment, urban renewal, design for disassembly, construction waste, project management, recycled materials |
| Subjects: | management, post-disaster and reconstruction, project management theory and practice, infrastructure and transport systems, industry analysis, data collection methods, sustainability and energy, data analysis and analytics, research methods, production management, Geography, health safety and environment, sustainable design, design process, transportation engineering, waste management, urban planning |
| Topics: | Sustainability, Engineering Principles, Geographical Context, Project Management, Health and Safety, Urban Studies, Design Practice, Governance, Research Practice, Business Strategy |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
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