Recycling & reuse of building materials: What obstacles are there and how do we overcome them?
Year: 2025
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The construction industry is facing major environmental and economic challenges, where a transition to circular practices, such as the reuse of building components, is crucial to reduce resource consumption and climate impact. The aim of this study is to identify the main obstacles that hinder the reuse of building components in Sweden and to identify strategies to overcome these obstacles. Through qualitative methods, including interviews with actors in the construction sector and a document study of previous research, recurring themes related to economic, psychological, organizational, and technical barriers were analyzed. The results show that reuse is hampered by a lack of knowledge, conservative practices, technical requirements, uncertainty regarding quality and legislation, as well as an underdeveloped market structure. Economic aspects such as high costs for dismantling, storage, and logistics are also major obstacles. At the same time, several drivers for reuse were identified, including environmental benefits, potential economic savings, and new business opportunities. The study emphasizes the importance of early planning, clear routines, collaboration between actors, and the use of digital tools that promote traceability and inventory of materials. The analysis shows that successful reuse requires a holistic approach with changed business models, skills development, and political incentives. The discussion also shows that reuse should be integrated throughout the construction process from design to demolition, which enables sustainable development over time. The study contributes with proposals for strategies that can support the transition towards a circular construction industry. Keywords: reuse, building materials, circular economy, construction sector, obstacles, environmental.
Authors: Basic, Denis, Karlsson, Erik
Language: English
Subfield: Strategy and Management
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7081582066