Muhammad Sadiq and Malik Mansoor Ali Khalfan
This study aims to address the research gaps in the application of circular economy (CE) principles within the construction demolition industry (CDI) by providing an updated…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to address the research gaps in the application of circular economy (CE) principles within the construction demolition industry (CDI) by providing an updated overview of key themes, trends and challenges. Using a bibliometric approach, it seeks to highlight the transformative potential of CE adoption in CDI, focusing on strategies for waste reduction, resource efficiency and supply chain optimization to support sustainable development.
Design/methodology/approach
Bibliometric analysis using the Scopus database was employed to systematically review the literature on CE principles in the CDI from 2014 to 2023. The analysis involved a four-step assessment, including qualitative reviews and quantitative evaluations, to identify key themes, trends, challenges and opportunities in CE research within the CDI. The intricate relationship between CE principles with a specific emphasis on CDI, building practices and supply chain management was explored.
Findings
The findings underscore a significant emphasis on circularity principles, interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of emerging technologies for efficient waste management. Experiencing a remarkable annual growth rate of 60.58%, particularly evident over the past five years, the escalating volume of relevant publications reflects an expanding interest in the CE within the CDI and related supply chain subjects. This underscores academia’s pivotal role in advancing the transition toward a circular construction economy.
Originality/value
The study recommends refining CE strategies by exploring the circular design paradigms, optimizing supply chains, integrating digital technologies, establishing standardized metrics and scrutinizing CE’s impact within the CDI.
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Abdul Rauf, Muhammad Tariq Shafiq, Malik Mansoor Ali Khalfan and Irfan Ulhaq
This study aims to enhance our understanding of sustainable water management in construction through a life-cycle embodied water assessment of a villa in the United Arab Emirates…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to enhance our understanding of sustainable water management in construction through a life-cycle embodied water assessment of a villa in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It provides insights and recommendations for improving the water efficiency by identifying areas for potential embodied water saving and reduction in environmental impacts in the construction industry.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a life-cycle assessment (LCA) approach and focuses on a UAE villa as a case study. It analyses the embodied water consumption during construction (initial embodied water) and maintenance (recurrent embodied water) using an input–output-based hybrid analysis. Additionally, it compares the embodied water observations with the operational water usage and comprehensively evaluates the water consumption in the villa’s life-cycle.
Findings
The initial (28%) and recurrent embodied water (42%) represent significant proportions of a building’s life-cycle water demand. The structural elements, predominantly concrete and steel, contribute 40% of the initial embodied water consumption. This emphasises the importance of minimising the water usage in these materials. Similarly, internal finishes account for 47% of the recurrent embodied water. This emphasises the importance of evaluating the material service life.
Practical implications
These findings indicate the efficacy of using durable materials with low embodiment and water-efficient construction methods. Additionally, collaborative research between academia, industry, and the government is recommended in conjunction with advocating for policies promoting low embodied-water materials and transparency in the construction sector through embodied water footprint reporting.
Originality/value
Previous studies focused on the operational water and marginally addressed the initial embodied water. Meanwhile, this study highlights the significance of the initial and recurrent embodied water in the life-cycle water demand. It emphasises on the need for adaptable buildings with reduced embodied water and more durable materials to minimise the requirement for frequent material replacements.
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Juan Carlos Flores Lara, Mutasem El Fadel and Malik Mansoor Ali Khalfan
This study addresses the integration of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies with circular economy (CE) principles in the UAE construction sector, aligning with the UAE Circular…
Abstract
Purpose
This study addresses the integration of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies with circular economy (CE) principles in the UAE construction sector, aligning with the UAE Circular Economy Policy 2021–2031 (UAECEP). It explores how digital tools can facilitate sustainable construction practices by enhancing resource efficiency, reducing waste and supporting circularity across the building life cycle.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to identify frameworks that integrate I4.0 technologies with CE principles. Based on the review, a conceptual framework was developed and refined to meet the UAE construction sector’s specific needs, focusing on applying digital tools at different stages of construction.
Findings
Integrating I4.0 tools, including building information modeling (BIM), the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI), can enhance resource efficiency, reduce waste and promote sustainability in the UAE’s construction sector. The framework aligns digital transformation efforts with the UAECEP, indicating these technologies’ applicability in design, construction, operation and end-of-life stages. Key challenges include high initial costs, technical limitations and the need for regulatory support.
Originality/value
This study offers a novel framework tailored to the UAE construction sector, bridging the gap between policy objectives and practical implementation. It provides strategies to overcome local challenges through stakeholder collaboration and digital innovation, contributing to the UAE’s sustainability goals.
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Shadeedha Mohamed Saradara, Juan Carlos Flores Lara, Vikas Swarnakar, Abdul Rauf, Rubina Qureshi, Mutasem El Fadel and Malik Mansoor Ali Khalfan
This study reviews policies, green building regulations, key performance indicators (KPIs) and management methods related to construction and demolition waste (CDW) in the United…
Abstract
Purpose
This study reviews policies, green building regulations, key performance indicators (KPIs) and management methods related to construction and demolition waste (CDW) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It aims to develop a holistic framework based on the 3R (reduce, reuse and recycle) principles to assess the current status of circular economy (CE) deployment and identify key determinants for efficient CDW management.
Design/methodology/approach
A mixed-method approach was used, including desk-based searches, systematic literature reviews and searches of official government websites to review existing CDW management policies and methods in the UAE. Scholarly databases were reviewed to identify CDW management challenges from a 3R perspective. A conceptual CE framework based on the 3R principles was developed using the study's findings.
Findings
The study provides a comprehensive review of CDW management in the UAE, analyzing associated management challenges in the construction sector. It proposes a holistic 3R principles-based framework, emphasizing strategic steps in the building lifecycle, site waste management (SWM) plans, drivers for circular construction and systematic adoption guidelines for effective CE deployment to achieve sustainable CDW management in the UAE construction sector.
Originality/value
This study explores existing policies and challenges in CDW management in the UAE and offers a 3R principles-based framework for CE deployment in the construction sector. It provides valuable insights for manufacturers of recycled products and for integrating circularity into construction projects’ design and procurement processes.